DMax in Simple English

[Franki]

The next problem: I've done enough digging to know I need to use DMax to accomplish my next task; but I'll be damned if I can figure out how to put all the parts of DMax together.

tblClients includes 4 fields: strClientName, strXeroxAccount, strClientID (the primary field), and strActive (a check box). Ideally, I would like to use DMax to both (1) set the default value of strXeroxAccount and strClientID to the last-used numbers, plus one; and (2) use DMax on a set-up-new-client form to do the same. I have tried mightily to unscramble the different parts required for DMax, but I can't.

I need a recipe book, not a help file!....

 

[Richie]

Why use DMax? Why not sort strXeroxAccount desc. to show last record and use auto number for strClientID?

 

[Franki]

I don't think I can use autonumber for strClientID because the numbers are inherited from 25+ years of my boss's law practice; most clients are around briefly, but we have a few that we've represented for years; thus, I have one active client with an ID number of 014, but the new client account numbers are up in the 500's; I don't want to have to carry clients on a new database that haven't been around for 10 years just to keep the numbers sequential, and there are large gaps in the current numbers.

As to sorting by strXeroxAccount, I suppose that could be done; however, I want a form where the new client and xerox account numbers are automatically added so anyone -- not just me, the Office Goddess -- can set up a new client without whining (and right now it is just me setting up new clients) -- they pull up the form, the new client and xerox numbers are automatically added to the record, and I don't have to worry about skipped numbers.

In any event, part of it is just the desire to figure out how it works!

 

[Jack Cowley]

Franki

Got to Candace Tripp's web site at ftp://216.122.12.123/pub/candace/candace.html and download her "AutoNumber without AutoNumber". I think you will be able to adapt her very simple code to your needs (You will need to uses the F11 key once you close the opening screen to see the Database Window, but you probably already knew that).... And we do want to keep the Office Goddess happy.... If you have problems you can email me directly, if you like.

HTH,
Jack

 

[Franki]

Thanks Jack -- works perfectly. The Goddess is now happy (at least about that one) -- and I at least kind-of understand how it works. Also loved the download of the Shakespearean Insulter from the same site -- I've done theater BC (before children), and work with a load of theater people.

 

[Jack Cowley]

Franki -

A happy Goddess and a Thespian. What could be better than that! Cruise some of Candace's other demo's. There is some good stuff there and 'break a leg'....

Jack

 

[Blkblts]

Evedently she has moves BOO HOO.

kim