Introduction to Files and Fields

Files are data storage structures for APPX fields (individual items of alphanumeric, numeric, date/time, and logic information in an APPX database). Fields represent the smallest units of data storage in APPX applications. Fields are grouped together as records stored within files. The record layout for a file is determined by the fields defined for that file within the data dictionary

The Files option from the Database Management Menu is used to define or maintain the specifications and documentation for an application’s files and fields. The specifications on the Files/Fields screens represent a combination of the specifications that define the file storage characteristics. File specifications include File Name, Description, Organization, and File Type.

Once specifications for a file have been completed, screens for fields within that file can be accessed. The actual screens that display depend upon whether or not you select an option and the specifications you enter at various stages in the definition process.