Linking Images to data records 1

[goolawah]

I have searched these forums for an answer and, while the topic seems to be addressed in various threads, I haven't been able to apply any of the information in my particular environment.

I am currently using Crystal V7 because it does all I need PLUS it is easy to distribute reports with the free run-time that seemed to become unavailable in later versions.

No reason why I couldn't upgrade to the current version if it solved my problem, which is (simplified):-

The target application uses the Pervasive (previously btrieve)database engine. The database includes an inventory masterfile which contains the fields: Inventory Code, Inventory Description and Picture (and many others, of course).

The picture field contains the filename of a .BMP file which is a picture of the inventory item.

Essentially I need do produce a report that lists a selection of the items, and displays the Inventory Code, Inventory Description, and the associated image, on the same line.

There is no actual association between the picture and the data record other than the filename in the "Picture" field. The actual image is not stored "in" the pervasive database, only the filename is stored.

All the images are stored together in a separate folder, within the folder containing the Inventory masterfile.

I have tried every which way of inserting a linked picture and/or and OLE object but cannot get the link to work dynamically to display the correct image for each selected data record.

I hope all this makes sense. All suggestions appreciated.

Thanks in anticipation.

 

[dgillz]

The short answer is that you need to upgrade to crystal XI. Up until that version, the picture itself needs to bestored in the database -- not the path and filename to the picture but the picture itself.

Starting with XI a path and filename will work.

In terms of run time, you are correct that the report compiling tool is no longer available. However there are a number of very reasonably priced crystal viewers listed here:

http://www.kenhamady.com/bookmarks.html

Software Sales, Training, Implementation and Support for Macola, eSynergy, and Crystal Reports

http://www.gainfocus.biz

"making predictions is tough, especially about the future" - Yogi Berra

 

[goolawah]

Many thanks for that.

Do you happen to know if this feature is available in the "Standard Edition" of Crystal Reports XI?

Unfortunately that seems to be the only one that does not have an evaluation download on the Business Objects website.