Getting Started


Chapter 12. Defining a map

Maps are used to display information to users and for printing information from a program. Your sample program uses one map. In this section of the tutorial, you define the constant fields, variable fields, and arrays on the map.

Every position on the map is part of a field. If there are no fields defined on the map, then there is one implicit field spanning the whole map.

Any map other than a help map can contain both constant and variable information. Help maps can contain only constant information. Constants typically consist of field labels and help fields that end users cannot change. You define constant fields by dropping constant parts on the map presentation area and defining properties for them.

Variable information can be changed either by users or other functions or programs. You define variable fields by dropping variable parts on the map presentation area. You can specify editing characteristics for the variable fields, and VisualAge Generator automatically formats and edits the fields.

Assume that the design of your program allows users to enter a beginning customer identifier when scrolling forward and backward through a list. You only need five customers listed at once.

Figure 54. Program Editor

Figure mapprge not displayed.

You have already specified the I/O object named CUSTMAP. The question mark beside it, shown in Figure 54, means that you need to further define it.

To begin defining the map:

  1. In Program Editor, click on the + beside CONVERSE-MAP.

    That part of the structure diagram is expanded and a map symbol is displayed.

  2. Double-click on CUSTMAP.

    The New Part Package/Application window is displayed.

  3. Ensure that tutorial is selected, and select OK.

    The new part is created and the Map Editor is displayed.


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