Input Masks

To make data entry faster, you can set up a specific field proerty, the Input Mask. This can alter the text entered in to suit your needs, no matter how it is typed. The two examples we'll use here are the State and Phone fields in the MEMBERS table. Several characters can be used with the input mask.

L indicates an alphabetic character, entry required

? indicates an alphabetic character, entry optional

0 indicates a numeric character, entry required

9 indicates a numeric character, entry optional

A indicates number or letter, entry required

a indicates number or letter, entry optional

> forces uppercase

< forces lowercase

For the State field, we can use a >?? to limit entry to two characters, letters only, and create uppercase letters, regardless of how they are typed.

The Phone Number field can be set up so the numbers are the only thing that need to be entered; the parentheses around the area code and the dash are added by creating the mask using the Input Mask Wizard.

There are three main steps. Click on any thumbnail to see the full image.

	There are several masks available. Choose the one you want.
	You can customize the mask if you so desire. The second half lets you choose the type of character that represents the numbers/letters before they're entered.
	You have the option to store the other symbols with the data. This is recommended, since it will allow these characters to display in queries and reports.

To see a video demo of the phone input mask, click here.

last modified 10/20/98 pjm