Using the Update Processor as a Data Processor

The Update Processor can be used as a data processor.

Syntax

update file.reference item-ID attribute.list {modifiers} (options

Synonym(s)

Parameter(s)

modifiers	The modifiers below are available:
	data-entry	The data-entry modifier allows repetitive entry of new items. Using this connective precludes the need to file an item using CTRL+XF. After the last value on the screen has been entered, pressing ENTER files the item and opens a new item.
	id-prompt	The id-prompt causes the Update Processor to include the item-ID attribute on the data entry screen. The item-ID option prompt displays as the first attribute on the screen, followed by all other defined attributes. If the item-ID is not explicitly requested, it does not display in the update screen. The item-ID prompt can be used on the macro attribute of the file-defining item (see Macro Attribute). The i option is a synonym for id-prompt.
options	The options below are available:
	c	Clears the screen after filing of an item and before displaying the next item.
	i	Displays the item-ID of the file being updated in the Update Processor data entry screen. The item-ID displays as the first attribute on the screen, followed by all other defined attributes. If the item-ID is not explicitly requested, it does not display on the update screen. The i option can be used on the macro attribute of the file-defining item (see Macro Attribute). If the i option is used on the output-macro attribute of the file-defining item, the item is suppressed on output listings. The id-prompt modifier is a synonym for the i option.
	l	Allows data to be viewed only. Items can not be filed, updated, or deleted.
	r	Edits raw text. This causes control characters to display as periods, escape characters to display as [ (left brackets), and subvalue marks to display as \ (backslashes).
	s	Turns the spelling checker off for the duration of the Update Processor session.

Description

When the Update Processor is called with an attribute list it functions as a data processor. Each attribute name in the Update Processor statement becomes a data entry location on the screen identified by the named attribute. Attribute names are listed on the left side of the screen and displayed in half-intensity. Dependent attribute names are displayed horizontally across the screen with the controlling attribute. Each attribute-defining item creates a cell on the screen through which data may be accessed and modified under the control of dictionary processing codes. Since a FlashBASIC program may be called using a processing code, complete application flexibility is provided.

The cursor can be moved from attribute name to attribute name. Data entered or changed next to an attribute name is filed in that attribute when the edited item is saved.

Stored data is subject to output conversions defined in attribute-defining items in the file dictionary prior to display. Data entered using the Update Processor is subject to input conversions defined prior to storage on disk. By invoking a single Update Processor command, an entire data access and update screen can be defined. When that command is saved as a macro, it can be recalled any time for file access. The Update Processor can be used to scan data using file indexes. When attributes are indexed using the create-index command, the Update Processor can be used to cruise on the index.