A single-line entry field consists of a rectangular box into which users type textual information limited to one line. When a single- line entry field is the active object, all text typed from the keyboard is automatically placed into it.

 

You can use the password keyword to specify that the contents of the entry field will not be visible.

 

The required attribute specifies the user must enter at least one non-blank character in the entry field. Specifying this keyword ensures a minimum level of validation.

 

The autotab attribute specifies the cursor automatically tabs to the next field when the user has entered the maximum number of characters in the field.

 

Within the definition of the entry field, you can use the text size attribute to specify a limit on the number of characters allowed in the field. For example:

 

text size 15 columns

 

specifies that you can enter only 15 characters in the entry field. You can also specify an alignment type of right, left, or horizontal center for entry fields. For example:

 

right align

 

specifies that text entered into the entry field will be right-aligned. The text attribute lets you specify an initial value for the entry field. The text of built-in function returns the current value, including protected validation formatting characters.

 

The validation is clause allows you to specify a format and boundaries for the entry field's contents. Use this clause to define the validation criteria. (See entry field Definition in the Reference Guide for more information on the validation is clause.)

 

You can also use the response to...on validation clauses to customize your validation criteria and response behavior. (Refer to response to OBJECT Response Definition in the Reference Guide for information on the on validation clauses.)