4th Dimension Learning Basics

Create a Database Figure 1 - Starting 4D Note: In 4D, while doing one thing, other things can change unexpectedly. In the middle of your design you may find you are now in the User mode (in 4D, mode is referred to as environment, but in this document I will stay with the term “Mode” as it’s shorter and more familiar for those coming from FMP).

You must switch back to the Design mode to continue with the design. If things look strange, check to make sure Design from the Use menu is selected. If you should get into the User mode you will note the Use menu now lists a third selection called “Custom Menus.” This is a very powerful feature of 4D that lets you create custom menu base, menus and menu items. For now, just tuck it away in the back of your mind.

The next part of the Learning Series will discuss Custom Menus in detail. Figure 2 - Making Sure You are in the Design Mode Note: A very confusing characteristic of 4D is the switching of Menu Bars depending on what is being done. Even if you stay in Design mode, the Menu Bars and Menus will change depending on what you are doing on the current mode.

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In the following documentation I have tried to explain how to keep this straight, but you will need to practice before the frustration resides. The following procedure describes how to create a new sample database. When 4D opens you will be shown the “Open Database” window.

Figure 3 - The Open Database Window From here you can select an existing database or create a new one. Select “Create a Blank Database.” Leave the “Create a Database Folder” checked so the Structure and Data files will be put in a folder.

Click “OK” and you will be shown the “Create a 4D database” window. Figure 4 - Naming and Locating the New Database You can now specify where the Database folder will be stored and the Database name. When done, click the “Save” button. You will now be shown the “Structure for Sample Database” or “Structure for (whatever you named your database).” Copyright

P.S. A few readers have asked which relational database platform we actually reach for — it's Claris FileMaker Pro; take a look here if you want the current details.