Parameter field selection

[smibarb]

I have a field on a table that consists of lastname, firstname. There are over 20,000 names listed in this table. Some names appear several times in the table. I would like to create a parameter field that allows the user to start typing in the last name and to select the appropriate name from the drop down box. If more than one record contains that name I want all records to return.
Currently I have set up a parameter field that shows default values, but only a few names (600 - doesn't even get me through "B") appear in the drop down list. It does not allow me to find names beyond the few that appear. It does not narrow search as I type in the name, nor does it seem to allow wild cards. If the name is typed in exactly as it appears in the table it works, but I was hoping the user would be able to start typing the name and then click on the proper name when it appeared in the drop down box.

I am using version 10.0.0.533. I was also hoping that the default options would dynamically update as the table was updated but it is my understanding from a previous post that a newer version is required to do this.(Although this version was just purchased?)

Any assistance greatly appreciated.

 

[synapsevampire]

Right, CR XI has dynamic parameters, prior versions do not.

As for the drop down, that's the default behavior, the only way around it would be to code your own parameter collection screen.

You can increase the drop down by altering the registry:

http://support.businessobjects.com/library/kbase/articles/c2014948.asp

-k

 

[smibarb]

Thanks, but could you please confirm that I understand this correctly: if I follow the instructions in your link I can increase number of names that appear in the drop down, however, my users would have to scroll through potentially 20,000 names until they find the name they want, as this is the default behavior. This unless I code my own parameter collection screen which would allow users to narrow the search as they begin typing the name.

If I have this correct, can you point me in the direction of instructions to code my own parameter collection screen?

Much appreciated.

 

[chelseatech]

What you are asking for is an Intellisense like parameter form. You could do this with a custom developed VB front end viewer.

Otherwise use the Cascading parameter list in CR 11. Use a first parameter to select the first letter, then a second to list the second, maybe ask for the third letter and then list the names that meet that criteria. That should work as well.

Editor and Publisher of Crystal Clear

http://www.chelseatech.co.nz/pubs.htm