Manual: Features-KeySearch

Key Search

Several Criteria specification spread throughout the Sites contain an ability to specify a distinct numeric value that can be used to look up a specific entry (typically a Database record). The value specified is a single numeric value made up of 1 to n digits. As an example, the Simple List will permit you to look up database entry 16 by simply specifying 16 as a Key value.

The character string that you can enter into a Key type criteria is in the general format:

[{=|<|>}] Value [{,|-}Value[,...]]

This syntax can be used to control which sorts of Keys should be used to develop or constrain the query that can be utilized. As examples:

Equal to a Key value (default)

Enter "16" to obtain entries with a Key equal to 16

Over a Key Value

Enter ">16" to obtain entries with Keys greater than 16

Under a Key Value

Enter "<16" to obtain entries with Keys less than 16

Multiple Key values

Enter "5,16" to obtain entries with Keys 5 and 16

A Range of Key values

Enter "5-8" to obtain entries with Keys between 5 and 8 inclusive

Multiple Keys mixed with Range of Key values

Enter "5,15,17-21" to obtain entries with a Key equal to 5 or 15 or in the inclusive range 17 through 21

This mechanism will be available for any Key type Criteria for 5.2 and up systems (typical popup string will say "Specific Value(s)"). It can be very flexible, but can also be a little complicated to get used to. But, once it becomes comfortable, it can also be very useful.