Dynamically Define the Access Definition

You can dynamically add tables and relationships to an Access Definition and specify sort, SQL, or selection criteria.

The ability to alter an Access Definition while using it to browse or edit data is controlled by parameters specified on the Access Definition Parameters panel (see Access Definition Parameters).

This dynamic facility is available only when the Access Definition editor is invoked from Option 5 ADS on the Main Menu, or from the Choose a Definition Option menu. Use the BROWSE or EDIT command to invoke a browse or edit session for the set of data defined by the Access Definition. During this session you can “join” to tables not included in the Access Definition and specify sort, SQL, and selection criteria for any table as you display the data.

For the most part, the facilities available when browsing or editing data are the same as those provided during a Point-and-Shoot session, and are not discussed here. Based on the Access Definition Parameters, the following facilities are also available during a browse or edit session for an Access Definition invoked from the Main Menu or the Choose a Definition Option menu.

Use the NEW operand with the JOIN command to specify the name of a table not listed in the Access Definition. The newly joined table and any pertinent relationships are automatically included in the Access Definition.
All specifications for sort, SQL, and selection criteria are included in the Access Definition.

This dynamic capability provides another means of defining an Access Definition, and it allows you to view the set of data you want to ensure the correct Access Definition.

Note: Any dynamic specifications you make during a Point-and-Shoot session, or when you use the BROWSE command from the Access Definition editor during an Extract, Compare, or Archive Process, are temporary and are not saved in the Access Definition.

Browse or Edit Tables (Access only)

You also can invoke a browse or edit session for a table, rather than using an Access Definition. Access creates a temporary Access Definition that references the selected table and includes any criteria specifications. A prompt allows you to save and name this temporary Access Definition at the end of the session. The saved Access Definition reflects all dynamic specifications made during the browse or edit session, including all joins, sort, SQL, and selection criteria. For details about defining an Access Definition while browsing or editing a table, see the Access User Manual, Dynamic Access.