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╔══════════════════════════╗
║ Paradox Informant(tm) ║
║ Back Issues Catalog ║
╚══════════════════════════╝
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
June 1992
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Paradox 4.0
by Mitchell Koulouris
While the world is busy going Windows crazy, Borland gets ready to
ship its next DOS version of Paradox. Version 4.0 packs in an
abundance of new features including a new interface, mouse support,
memo fields, BLOb support, a new editor, and some of the most
powerful commands and functions ever. Sit back, relax, and get ready
for a guided tour through the latest version of Paradox.
SQL Link 4.0
by William F. Slater III
Don't forget about Paradox SQL Link. Version 4.0 makes connecting
to your favorite database server even easier while adding support
for NetWare SQL.
OrderPAL
by Mitchell Koulouris
So you're looking for a bullet-proof order entry system written in
Paradox? Look no further. Whether you sell goods or services, Target
Software's OrderPAL provides considerable power in fulfilling your
order processing needs. Here's a look at what it has to offer.
Inside Paradox
by Bill Todd
Paradox 4.0 adds enhanced secondary index support. Here's a detailed
look at the new options.
Paradox Views
by Richard C Haven
You wanted memo fields? You got 'em with Paradox 4.0.
PAL Workbench
by Tony Goodman
A PAL primer to familiarize yourself with 4.0's windowing
capabilities. Source Code.
Paradox Toolbox
by Dan Paolini
This new column will help you in developing your PAL toolbox.
Source Code.
Paradox Internals
by Richard C Haven
Here's an explanation of Paradox 4.0's new SC2 files.
Paradox.NET
by Kevin Smith
Here's a discussion on Paradox 4.0's new locking mechanisms.
The Paradox Surgeon
by David Faulkner
The surgeon pulls a C program out of his bag to capture a Paradox
screen and write it to a PAL script. Source Code.
Inside InterBase
by Bruce Linn
What separates the InterBase Server from other database servers is
the concept of 'complex processing'. Here is a look at its advantages
over the traditional 'transaction processing' approach.
Miscellaneous
Informant Relocates Headquarters
Borland Acquires Programming Tools
Kallista Readies PAL-Edit 4.0
Quattro Pro for Windows in Beta Testing
Sheng Labs announces PAL Compiler
New Products
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
August 1992
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Why is Philippe Kahn Smiling?
by Mitcell Koulouris
Borland President and CEO Philippe Kahn talks to the Informant about
InterBase, Paradox for Windows, and the next generation of Borland
products.
Quattro Pro for Windows
by Gene Weisskopf
The first of a new generation of Borland products is upon us as
Borland rolls-out Quattro Pro for Windows. If you thought the DOS
version was powerful, wait 'til you see what Borland's been up to
with its first major business application for Windows.
First Looks-Paradox for Windows
by Jerry Coffey
Paradox for Windows is one of the most eagerly-anticipated appli-
cations in recent memory. Although not quite ready for commercial
shipping, here's a look at what the program will have to offer.
Get ready for a big change in how you'll go about your business.
PaintPAL
by Mitchell Koulouris
If your looking for the must-have programming tool for Paradox 4.0,
then the first place you should look is at Target Software's PaintPAL.
Paradox 4.0 dialog boxes are hassle-free with PaintPAL.
PAL 101
by Micah Bleecher
Here's a routine that provides the framework and understanding on how
to add new records to lookup tables "on-the-fly".
PAL Techniques
by Brian McKinley
Ever want to place a highlight bar over an entire field? Here's how.
PAL Workshop
by David Berg
Here's a discussion on pull-down menus and the event model.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
by Cary Jensen
The results from our international search of the most creative and
useful Paradox pictures.
The Competitive Edge
by Tony Goodman
Our maestro offers another utility for your 4.0 toolbox with this
nifty, button-laced gem.
Paradox Toolbox
by Dan Paolini
Here's a discussion of the new Paradox 4.0 menus.
Client/Server
by William F. Slater, III
This time around our SQL expert focuses on the PAL side of things
with Paradox SQL Link.
The Interop Expert
by Lisa Loud
A discussion on using Paradox in the mixed DOS/Windows environment.
EndText
by Jim Kocis
An enlightening and funny look at Paradox and dirty reads.
NewsLine
Borland announces:
C++ Compiler for Win32s/NT
Plans for Development Tools
New Products
Gold Utilities Documentation Tool Supports Paradox 4.0
Windows Database Editor and Library
CASE Tool for Paradox
-based Voice and Fax Processing
Mark it on your calender with ParaDate
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
September 1992
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Paradox Engine 3.0 Takes Off
by Christopher Reid
Looking for access to your Paradox Data? Borland readies Paradox
Engine 3.0. Improved Pascal support, the addition of BLOb support,
and the new Database Frameworks gives your engine applications more
horsepower than ever before.
MergeMaster
by Marc Andonian
You say you need to perform mail-merge with your Paradox data and
word processor? Stairway Software has the solution. With direct
support for Paradox tables and virtually every popular word processor,
MergeMaster takes the pain out of mail-merge.
Project Planning
by Phil D'Amour
Here's an overview of how you should plan to build a Paradox
application. Planning is everything.
Objects of Interest
by Henrik Bechman
Here's a look at "Phasing", a development methodology that helps in
building complex applications.
Inside Paradox
by Bill Todd
If you need speed, here's the inside track to getting Paradox 4.0
running like an Indy race car.
PAL 101
by Cynthia Weisfield
Here's a look at ARRAYS and how to use them.
Paradox Techniques
by Luke Chung
Getting frustrated trying to create a report with multiple
one-to-many relationships? Here's the scoop on how to do what
they say can't be done.
The Competitive Edge
by Tony Goodman
Take advantage of Paradox 4.0's new sound capabilities with our OOPiano.
The Paradox Surgeon
by David Faulkner
Here's a technique that adds keyword-sensitive help to the Paradox 4.0 editor.
ReadLib
Reviews of the latest books for Paradox and interoperability.
Paradox Quick Tip
a quick look at Paradox Unexpected Conditions.
NewsLine
Judge's Summary Judgement Ruling favors Lotus
ObjectVision 2.1 PRO released
Dean Witter Maintains Hold Rating on Borland Stock
Borland Unveils Enhanced Support Service
New Products
Approach for Windows Includes Paradox Support
Paradox 4.0 Dialog Box Editor
Data-Driven Executive Information System
Keep your Paradox Apps in Place with PARA-Site
Paradox Classroom Training Kit
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
October 1992
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The Key to your Data
The first in a two-part series, here's the scoop on understanding
what key fields are and why it's so important to use them.
Ideas About IDs
Not sure how to create unique IDs? Here's a discussion that's sure
to help you in your quest.
Incrementing Keys
Having an incrementing number as a key field in a table isn't that
easy to do. Here's a look at a couple of ways to go about it.
Understanding Indexes
Here's a detailed discussion of Paradox 4.0 indexes and how Paradox
stores and locates records in a table.
Client/Server
Client/Server: Yes or No? If you need to access SQL data then here
are the issues to consider to make the decision.
Eye on Windows
If your like everyone else, you're eagerly awaiting Paradox for
Windows. In the meantime, there are some things you can do to
prepare for its arrival. Here's an overview of Paradox for Windows
ObjectPAL language and how you can get ready for a whole new ballgame.
Paradox.NET
Thinking about running Paradox on a Novell network? Are you
already running Paradox on NetWare? Here's an in-depth discussion
on how to get Paradox humming on our NetWare LAN.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
Paradox makes form creation an easy process. But style and
appearance is everything to a user. Here's a look at how to place
attractive borders and drop shadows on your forms.
Objects of Interest
If you plan on coding in Paradox 4.0, then a thorough understanding
of Events is essential. Here's a look from an expert.
PAL Toolbox
Add report dialog boxes to your toolbox with these utility gems.
There's also a look at memory management issues and using SETSWAP.
A Vision for Developers
Borland throws in everything but the kitchen sink with the release
of ObjectVision PRO. Here's a look.
Looking Good on Paper:
Crystal Reports
Crystal Services packs a wollop with Crystal Reports.
InfoPublisher
Catalogs and directories are a snap with PageAhead's latest entry.
SpellCheck
With Paradox 4.0's new memo fields, you'll find yourself placing
more lengthy text into fields than ever before. If you want to
make sure all that text is spelled properly, turn to SpellCheck
from the Atlantic Software Group.
On Location
If you need help with tuning your skills for Paradox 4.0, then
Kallista has a seminar for you.
ReadLib
The Relational Database Advisor, Elements of PC Database Design
Understanding SQL
Printing on NetWare
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
November 1992
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Tutility
A corrupt table can be anything from a disaster to a catastrophe.
Fortunately there is a little-known Paradox program--Tutility--
that's just received a major overhaul. Mr. Todd shows us where
to turn when bad things happen to good tables.
A PAL Org chart
Continuing in his object-based vein, Mr. Goodman humbly presents
polymor-phism (or something close) in PAL. Whatever you want to
call it, this is how to write professional, maintainable code.
PDOXUSRS.NET
Mr. Saturnia says good-bye and good rid-dance to formlock! Paradox
4.0 features a new and improved table locking mechanism.
The Paradox Surgeon
The Surgeon performs an organ transplant. Using an undocumented
portion of the Application Workshop, Dr. F provides code for
selecting forms and reports in a multi-user environment.
Interop Expert
BLObs are one of the more talked about features of Paradox 4.0.
Ms. loud tells us what the excitement is all about.
Paratechnix
Preparing to take the plunge and convert your 3.5 applications?
Mr. Kadavanich presents the agony and ecstasy of the move to
Paradox 4.0. You may have to read it twice, its loaded with
information.
Objects of Interest
Struggling with the Paradox 4.0 event queue? This month Mr.
Bechmann presents a comprehensive approach to event handling.
It's called EventMan and you will be impressed.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
This month Dr. Jensen takes a look at the new 4.0 windows. It
seems that even the interactive user may need to turn off "those
darn frames". Some simple PAL should do the trick.
Client/Server
Mr. Slater continues his coverage of the client/server world
with a look at the terrain now that the war is over between
"mainframe people" and "PC people". Is the war really over Bill?
SQL Link
At first glance, Paradox SQL Link 4.0 doesn't seem to offer much
that's new. But Mr. Clifford shows us that looks can be deceiving.
Project Planning
Continuing his series, Mr. D'Amour focuses on preparing a
requirements definition.
Inside PAL
Here's an expert look at an underestimated PAL command. This
month Mr. Haven tells about MATCH.
PAL Toolbox
Trap those run-time errors and do something about them. The
latest from Mr. Paolini offers some ready-made error-handling
procedures. Be sure to lift this month's toolbox correctly.
We'd hate to see you get hurt.
Forest & Trees for Windows
Our resident reviewer takes a look at Forest & Trees from a
Paradox perspective. Let Dr. Andonian take you on a guided tour.
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
January 1993
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
1992 Paradox Informant Reader's Choice Awards
All the ballots are in and the votes have been counted. Here's the
outcome of our worldwide survey of you, the Paradox user. The awards
span 27 different categories of Paradox related products.
Interop Expert
Paradox for Windows is on the horizon. This month, Ms. Loud gives us
a preview of its thought-provoking BLOb capabilities.
Turbo Vision & Database Framework
With Paradox Engine 3.0, object-oriented programming (OOP) is now
available to the Paradox developer. Here's a first look at putting
these tools to work. Using the new Engine, its Database Framework,
C++ and Turbo Vision, Mr Signore puts all the pieces together for us.
PAL Toolbox
There's no PAL command to manipulate the SpeedBar. Don't worry-
"Speed-Buttons" are here! This month's PAL Toolbox shows you how to
build iconic buttons to aid you & your users with Paradox navigation.
Paratechnix
Dynamic arrays were part of the big news with Paradox 4.0. They
certainly offer irreplaceable new capabilities. But at what price?
Find out, with the results of this detailed analysis of dynarrays.
On Reports
Has your boss casually asked you to include a Gantt chart in your
next Paradox report? Before you tell her that it can't be done,
read this month's On Reports. All it takes are a handful of PAL
functions, calculated fields, and some know-how from Mr. Todd.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
Maligned, shunned, unappreciated--it's EXECUTE! Despite its bad
press, EXECUTE remains an important command with critical function-
ality. Dr Jensen puts this misunderstood command in perspective.
Project Planning
Coding without planning puts you at the mercy of the end-user.
Instead, plan ahead and develop a Functional Specification
document. Mr D'Amour shows us how to avoid the endless project.
PAL 101
Still a little vague on this z-order thing? Can't get a handle?
You're not alone. In this month's PAL 101 Mr. Bleecher takes the
time to help us sort it all out.
Objects of Interest
Although not an OOP language, Mr Bechmann knows how to make PAL 4.0
behave like one. This month he presents an ambitious button manager-
ButtonMan- and answers the question: What's an Object?
The Competitive Edge
As the Paradox universe expands, the paths of PAL developers are
crossing more often. Here's a plea for Paradox development standards.
Programmers unite! You have nothing to lose but your chains!
─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
March 1993
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Put it on Paper
Paradox for Windows is a highly integrated set of database tools.
Here's a quick guide to creating complex reports.
Customizing Reports
The Paradox for DOS report generator still has a lot to offer. Let
Mr LaTulipe show you how to get the most out of it.
It's a Setup!
Mr San gives an expert's perspective on using Paradox with a
Hewlett-Packard LaserJet. Learn why sometimes reset is not enough.
Export by Report
Preparing files for other software systems can be a challenge. Mr
Braun shows us how to use the report generator to export special files.
HP Laser Labels
Printing labels on a LaserJet is a common task. Here's what to do
when every label counts.
Bar Codes: A Survey
Bar Codes are a big player in today's business environment. Mr
Winston gives us a survey of their use. Guess what? The're easy.
More on Bar Codes
This is all very nice about bar codes, but could you give me a
a Paradox example? Mr Wilkerson provides a PrintBar II solution.
Who needs PRINT?
When all else fails, control the printer the old-fasioned way.
Use the PAL PRINT command.
Learning a NU Trick
Here's one way out of a tight spot. Sometimes it pays to hack.
Paradox Tricks and Tips
Wish you could copy and paste fields in the Paradox for DOS report
generator? Dr Jensen provides a valuable utility and shows you
how he did it.
The Competive Edge
Mr Goodman has delivered another object-based gem. Get more speed.
Get less hard-code. Get the inside story on OBP.
Objective Eye
The path of events as they bubble up the containership heirarchy
may not be intuitive, but not without reason. Let Mr Lenaghan
help you get your events straight.
On Queries
Confused by Set queries? Let an expert explain. This month
Mr Ehrmann provides a new twist that has an everyday utility.
OPAL Tech
Every ObjectPAL programmer needs to be able to control menus. Mr
Todd explains that where you control them is as important as how.
Conduit
When it comes to exporting and importing ASCII data, sometimes
Paradox can use a little help. Kallista's Conduit is ready.
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
April 1993
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
A Matter of Form
The rules associated with relational database design can be dificult
to understand. Here's a look at the methodology of normal form.
For the Record
A database must be put together correctly to perform well and keep
the data safe. Learn how to construct a database with a working
example. First of a series.
Connections
The Paradox for Windows data model feature is closely tied to its
referential integrity feature and to forms and reports. Mr LaTulipe
makes it all clear with an example you can bulid for yourself.
Artificial Edge
A convincing argument for the use of surrogate keys and a complex
example of a normalized database.
Informant Undercover
Undocumented PAL - VARVAL and VARASSIGN are probably the most important
undocumented commmands in the history of Paradox. Remember-only the
Informant brings you this stuff!
PAL Tech
Mr Hopkins has shown us VARVAL. Now he shows us how to use it
creatively to store relational data in dynarrays.
PAL Toolbox
This month's PAL Toolbox features vertical menus displayed within
dialog boxes.
PAL 201
It's the mysterious case of NEWWAITSPEC. The manuals are unclear
regarding why it should be used. Mr Bleecher sheds some light
on the puzzle and demonstrates its value.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
It would be hard to blame you for not using Paradox for DOS graphs.
Dr Jensen shows us that PW graphs are an entirely different matter.
OPAL Tech
TCursors and the capabilities they provide are wholly new to PW. An
exhaustive demonstration of TCursors-and a PW form you can download.
Objective Eye
In the March issue-how to centralize code into a library for use
with multiple forms. This month's article does the same with
ObjectPAL error-handling.
Getting Started
Don't let table creation stop you from benefiting from Paradox.
Mr Sambisi presents us with a pain free guide to creating tables.
Windows Novice
Paradox for Windows comes with an assortment of icons-here's
how to pick your favorite.
Paradox 101
An introduction to Paradox keys. Easy to use, don't miss out
on the extraordinary performance benefits provided by primary
and secondary keys.
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
May 1993
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Facing Your Users
When the issues of form design, color menus and messages are para-
mount-how to keep your users friendly.
PW Interface Tricks
Paradox for Windows has revolutionized the Paradox interface-some
interactive and ObjectPAL techniques to create spectacular on-screen
effects.
For the Record: Part II
Last issue-a database. This issue we build a form to view the data
including graphic and OLE fields-a tour of the PW Form Design
window. Available for download.
Not Just Another Pretty Face
Putting Paradox 4.0's new features in perspective-Mr. Paolini shares
his view of 4.0's many new interface capabilities.
Forms: Just Say No!
Paradox 4.0 dialog boxes can do mor than they were designed for!
Source code.
Establishing a Dialog
An introduction to Paradox for Windows' dialog boxes. Source code.
Designing with Style
Paradox for Windows contains treasures that we'll be uncovering for
some time. Learn how to use prototype objects files to create PW
"style sheets".
Paradox Surgeon
A code-generating utility called Make Menu that writes SHOWPULLDOWN
code for you. Download it and modify it for your own use. Source code.
PAL 202
This month Mr. Gassner provides us with Pick Record, a user-friendly
PAL alternative to default Lookup help.
PAL Tech
How to take advantage of The Editor being tightly integrated with PAL
and the entire Paradox 4.0 environment. It might solve some E-mail
headaches also. Source Code.
Interop Expert
The Paradox Engine was designed for use with Paradox for DOS. This
article explains how to manipulate field types unique to PW.
Objective Eye
The last two issues introduced an application-wide ObjectPAL
programming approach. This story puts these concepts to work.
PW 101
Paradox for Windows can be dizzying- even creating a simple form can
seem a daunting task. There are only five steps to custom PW forms.
Getting Started
The PW Desktop, like the Windows GUI environment can be highly
customized. Here's how.
Reviews
wbsLIB2 - A utility package for PAL 4.0
PaintPAL 2.0- A dialog box generating package
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
July 1993
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Corporate Paradox
If you work at a large company, chances are most of the company's
data is in a SQL database. And your Paradox data is on the LAN.
Client/server is the answer and Paradox happens to be great at it.
Client/Server and the Paradox SQL Link
Borland's long-standing offering as the "client" in a client/server
system is Paradox SQL Link. This month Mr Tandowski provides an
introduction to this important tool and the capabilities of PAL with
embedded SQL.
PW SQL Access Now
The Paradox for Windows version of Paradox SQL Link isn't available
yet. Does this mean we can't get to SQL data from PW? Mr Wright
says no! All it takes is some ObjectPAL and a DLL from Q+E.
The InterBase Connection
Borland has big plans for InterBase, its very own SQL server. Its
loaded with features including a unique multi-generational architec-
ture. Mr Sharp gives us the lowdown on an emerging product.
A Matter of Protocol
It appears in articles. It comes up in conversations. But just what
is TCP/IP? It's just the machine-to-machine link that makes clint-
server possible. Our Network Editor, Gary Praegitizer, demystifies
this important network communications protocol.
Up and Running: NetWare SQL
Novell offers a SQL server that is native to the world's most popular
network operating system - their own. Mr Grove provides us with an
introduction and setup instructions for using it with Paradox.
Up and Running: Oracle Server
Oracle has the largest installed base in the SQL server arena, so its
not unlikely that you'll run into it. Mr Grove puts the product in
focus for Paradox users and tells us what it takes to get connected.
Up and Running: InterBase
From TCP/IP to PING to FTP to AWK, there are enough UNIX acronyms to
make any poor DOS programmer's head spin. Fear not. Mr McIntosh and
Mr Robinson blaze a trail into UNIX we all can follow.
A SQL Primer
Your comfortable with Paradox QBE, but SQL is just a meaningless
acronym. If you know QBE, you already know the hardest part of SQL-
the principles of querying a database. The rest is just syntax.
Murphy's Dream
For all the advantages that client/server architecture offers, it's
no cake walk. In fact, with poor planning, your client/server imple-
mentation could become a bona fide disaster. Mr Slater helps us go
in with our eyes wide open.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
One early estimate of PAL/ObjectPAL compatibility was "less than zero
percent". Apparently, that was a little pessimistic as Dr Jensen
proves this month by converting PAL queries into ObjectPAL.
For the Record: Part IV
You've seen the graphics. You've heard the music. Now it's time for
a little ObjectPAL. This month Mr Koulouris takes his PW multimedia
extravaganza one step further by adding the programmatic side of PW.
Paradox Surgeon
Undocumented commands never seem to lose their allure. This is
especially true when the commands can alter the basic configuration
of Paradox. This month, the Surgeon opens up the patient and reveals
the secrets of CONFIGURE.
The Competive Edge
Are you beginning to believe that all the Paradox excitement is
occuring on the Windows side of things? Au contriare! Mr Goodman
has always had a visual knack. This month its animated icons.
SQL Servers
Paradox SQL Link supports several SQL servers on a variety of platforms
with a variety of features. Sorting them all out can be perplexing.
To help us out, Mr Koulouris offers a survey of SQL RDBM's.
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
September 1993
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
An Introduction to ObjectPAL: Part I
by Drew Wright
Don't know where to start with ObjectPAL? It's probably a lot easier
than you think, as Mr. Wright explains in his first of a two-part
series. Support files, code.
An Introduction to PAL: Part I
by Cary Jensen
This month, Mr. Jensen demonstrates how you can begin using PAL
gradually. You'll be programming before you know it! It's the first
of a two-part series.
Boxes within Boxes within Boxes: Part I
by Mark Pauker
In his first of a three-part series, Mr. Pauker begins an in-depth
exploration of the Paradox for Windows containership heirarchy and
event model.
Struct.EXE
by John Matcho
Curious about the Paradox Engine and its capabilities? Mr. Matcho
gives us a sampling as he shows us how to display Paradox table
structures at the DOS prompt. Source code.
An Eventful Model
by Martin Rudy
Before you can program in the windowing environment of Paradox 4.0,
you must understand its event and echo model. Mr. Rudy makes it all
clear. Source code.
Calling All Forms
by Gus Horowitz
Attaching ObjectPAL to a button is one thing, inter-form communication
is something else again. But it's not all that difficult, as Mr.
Horowitz explains. Supporting files, source code.
Paradox Surgeon
by David Faulkner
This month's code offering from Dr F produces a lighthearted result --
but the PAL is intense. Amaze your friends! Source code.
Data Types
by Steve Kachman
One of Paradox 4.0's most important capabilities is handling text data
of any size. From PAL to BLOb editors, Mr. Kachman runs the Memo and
BLOb gamut. Source code, supporting files.
OPAL Tech
by Bill Todd
Paradox for Windows keeps runtime errors in an error stack. This
month Mr. Todd presents a custom logError method to help keep track of
them. Source code.
PW at Work
by Randy Nichols
Paradox for Windows can't produce two-dimensional summary graphs
in reports. Or can it? Mr. Nichols shows us how to fool PW. Supporting
files.
PAL 100
by Randolph Brown
This month we wind up a two-parter that demonstrates obtaining user
input to perform ad-hoc queries. Mr. Brown helps us with "Getting
the Question Straight". Supporting files.
Client/Server
by Michael Clifford
Mr. Clifford demonstrates a powerful software duo that can simplify
Paradox 4.0 client/server computing: Paradox SQL Link and WaitPlus Pro.
Reviews
System Architect
by Suneet Shah
Data Partner
by Dan Ehrmann
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
November 1993
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
COVER STORY - ObjectPAL 4.5
Some new ObjectPAL methods and procedures were uncorked with PW 4.5.
Mr Todd gives a run-down and demonstrates their use with some
real-world examples.
Object Exchange
Introduced with the Workgroup Edition of Paradox 4.5 for Windows and
Quattro Pro 5.0 for Windows, Object Exchange represents a new
direction for Borland. Mr Kadavanich provides a complete explanation
of its use with some amusing examples.
Informant Labs(TM): Borland SQL Link
One of the more accessible client/server solutions is provided by
SCO UNIX. Mr Praegitzer reveals the details of the Informant Labs(TM)
implementation of Paradox 4.5 for Windows, Borland SQL Link,
InterBase, and SCO.
INFORMANT SPECIAL REPORT
Paratechnix
What is a corrupt table? How does it get that way? And most
important, how do you fix it? Mr Kadavanich explains all of this
and more -- it's all a matter of "Damage Control".
PAL at Work
Following up his article of last month, Mr Thompson demonstrates
printing the results of a Crosstab using pseudo 2-dimensional
dynarrays and the PAL PRINT command.
OPAL Tech
Mr Chalnick has ported his popular GetDate calendar utility to
Paradox for Windows. Discover how WinCal can spruce up your date
entry routines and several other valuable tips as well.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
Yes, Paradox for Windows does not have a macro recorder. But as
Mr Jensen points out, Windows does. Learn how to use Windows
Recorder to assist with your repetitive PW tasks.
Inside ObjectPAL
Mr Pauker completes his three-part series on the Paradox for Windows
containership hierarchy. This month the focus is on variable scoping
and parameter passing.
ObjectPAL Plus
Mr Goyette continues his "Extending ObjectPAL" series. This month's
article concentrates on creating and using an ObjectPAL library.
REVIEWS
Query Home Companion
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
February 1994
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Thumbs Up! (or Down)
Wouldn't it be nice if you could place a scroll bar on an embedded
multi-record Paradox for DOS form? Well now you can with the help of
Mr Haven and some PAL.
The Sort/Filter Tool
Mr Chalnick presents a user-friendly version of the PW Order/Range
dialog box. It's another handy utility from our new Contributing
Editor.
Windows, Calling Windows
Getting the "real" version number of a Windows executable from
ObjectPAL requires more than just a DLL. You need a DLL wrapper as
well, and Mr Kadavanich kindly provides one.
Ad Hoc PAL Queries: Part II
Mr Chung wraps up his ad hoc QBE extravaganza. This month's topics
include PAL query strategies, multi-user issues, and dirty reads.
And of course there's scads of code.
Paradox Tricks & Tips by Cary Jensen
A command of the PW event model is essential to ObjectPAL development,
but the learning curve is steep. Luckily, Dr Jensen makes it easy to
learn with his new series.
OPAL Tech
A data type you may not even know about, the Record, could soon be
your favorite work-horse. Mr Todd performs time trials on
ObjectPAL' complex data types.
Interop Expert
Paradox 4.5 for Windows includes enhancements to the ODAPI
Configuration Utility. Borland's own Ms Loud tells us what's new.
ObjectPAL Plus
Mr Goyette caps his Extending ObjectPAL series with a blow-by-blow
on writing your own DLL. Stand by for C!
OPAL at Work
A bunch of forms does not an application make. Let Mr Horowitz
show you how to get control of your PW forms "From the Top, Down".
REVIEWS
InfoModeler
ezDOC for Paradox
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March 1994
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PW Report Techniques: Part I
Got the basics down of the PW Report Designer? Mr Rudy begins a
two-part potpourri brimming with tips and techniques to take you to
the next level of report acumen.
The Paradox for DOS Report Designer: Part I
Here's a guided tour of the venerable report generator by the man who
wrote it. Even long-time users might learn a thing or two from
Mr Frykland. It's the first of a two-part series.
The Sort/Range Utility
Mr Angelo round out our reporting issue by presenting a valuable PW
reporting utility. It's a dialog box that allows users to select the
sort order and range of their reports.
Inside PAL
If you're a heavy-duty PAL developer who's pushing the edges of the
PAL Debugger envelope, you'll be interested in the TracTuner System.
Coding Skills
You already know everything there is to know about PAL development.
So there's no reason for you to read Mr Kellen's article
"Coupling and Cohesion". Right?
OPAL Tech
Mr Todd presents a straightforward and good-looking approach
to developing your own PW speedbar. Our guess is many of these
techniques will show up in your applications.
PW Utilities
A unique and creative approach to a programmable speedbar,
PowerBar could change the way you use PW and Windows.
Ms Bergman shows us what a dialog box can do if it really tries.
Iconography
Need some cool graphics to go on your buttons? Mr Koulouris has
put together over 1000 bitmaps for the purpose. Download and enjoy!
Tools and Techniques
Creating and maintaining PW menus is tedious. Happily, Mr Chalnick
lightens the load with a robust table-driven menu-building utility.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
In Part II of his definitive treatise on the PW event model, Dr
Jensen focuses on event generation and some of the secrets of the
event packet. Every ObjectPAL developer should read this.
Windows Clinic
Feeling comfortable with calls to the Windows API? Tune in for
Mr Rajan's presentation of the SysGauge utility and discover an API
function Microsoft decided not to document.
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April 1994
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Tracking PW Events
In part three of his Event Model series, Dr Jensen takes a look at
PW's native (and very useful) ObjectPAL Tracer utility. The big news
however, is his own event tracking tool, PWTracker.
TracTuner: Part II
Mr Moore continues his series on the TracTuner System, a feature-
laden, PAL 4.x debugging tool. This month, he implements the
Procedures Triggered window which displays the trigger type, the
procedure triggered, and the value returned.
Events, and the Event Model
Mr Pauker introduces the Paradox for Windows event model. It's not
just for beginners, however. Even if you've been working with events
for some time, you're sure to gain new insights and nail down
central concepts.
Reporting
Here's the wrap up of a two-part series on the Paradox for DOS report
generator by the man who wrote it. Mr Frykland explains grouping,
free form reports, mailing labels, and lookup links.
Tools and Techniques
Mr Chalnick finishes a two-part series describing his Paradox for
Windows menu builder. It's a table-driven menu-generating utility
that produces highly flexible menu systems with optional security
features.
PW Reporting
It's the second of a two-part series on the Paradox for Windows
Report Designer. This month, Mr Rudy discusses field squeeze and
line squeeze, invoice output, printing single page forms,
and using variables in reports.
OPAL Tech
This month's OPAL Tech is a guided tour of Paradox for Windows
foibles. But don't worry! Mr Todd demonstrates that PW is powerful
enough to overcome any obstacle, self-imposed or otherwise.
Inside ObjectPAL
Do you need to share a table between forms? Do you need the displayed
record to be synchronized between the forms? How about record
highlighting on the inactive form? Mr Haven provides all these
features and more.
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May 1994
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Understanding Data
Beginning with the basics, Ms Richter first answers the question,
"What is Data?". This first of a two-article series on data then
moves on to data terminology and data types, before moving on to
a detailed discussion of basic data types.
Data Model Tricks: Part I
You may think you are familiar with the PW Data Model. Mr Smith's new
series, however, may prove you wrong. This month's installment shows
how to use query and table files in the Data Model to give PW rela-
tional view capability. Pay attention! This one's very important.
Back in Time?
Have you ever been asked to store records in reverse date order?
It's the type of request that users make without knowing how difficult
it is to do. Or is it? Mr Salcedo provides a straight forward method
using a future base date and PW's DateTime data type.
Using PW Crosstabs
Underused and misunderstood, the ability to perform crosstabs is one
of Paradox's hidden treasures. Mr Sims explains why crosstabs are so
valuable, and then demonstrates how easy they are to put to use.
Inside PAL
It's Part III of an in-depth exploration of the TracTuner System,
a PAL development utility that goes far beyond the capabilities of
the PAL Debugger. This month, Mr Moore presents the Status Info
screen and a lot of insights into complex PAL development.
PAL Tech
PAL arrays are one-dimensional, right? Well, there's no way to
change the nature of PAL arrays, but Mr Costanza demonstrates some
techniques to make them act like two-dimensional arrays.
And would you believe 3-D?
OPAL Tech
Closing a multi-form Paradox for Windows application can be tricky
business. Fortunately, we have Mr Todd to show us the ropes. It's
a matter of using a Desktop form, the postAction method and some
ObjectPAL expertise.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
Dr Jensen continues his seminal PW Event Model series. The task at
hand is field validation, the ObjectPAL method of interest is
changeValue, and the message is "It's not as hard as you think."
Paratechnix
Consider the humble Paradox for Windows button. Don't kid yourself
into thinking it's the simple object it appears. Mssrs Kadavanich
and Jensen use the PWTracker utility to explore every nuance of
this tricky object's behavior.
Coding Skills
When it comes to PAL, we already know that loose coupling and high
cohesion are important programming goals. But is the same true for
ObjectPAL? "Absolutely," says Mr Kellen, and proceeds to tell us why.
Tools and Techniques
Mr Chalnick begins a three-part series about printing techniques
that every Paradox for Windows developer must know. This month, the
focus is on printing reports to file.
Reviews
Renaissance
Renaissance promises visual programming in Paradox 4.x for DOS.
Does Ensemble Corp's new product live up to all the hoopla?
S-Designor
If you're working with a complex database, a CASE tool may be in
your future. But is S-Designor the right tool? Mr Rajan provides
an opinion - and a quick CASE education.
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June 1994
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Paradox for Windows GUI Design
Paradox for Windows has opened a new world of user interface
possibilities. Mr Wright kicks off this month's issue with a creative
guide to the exciting capabilities of the graphical Windows environ-
ment, and makes a complete application available to demonstrate.
MS Windows User Interface Design
One of the great productivity boons provided by Microsoft Windows is
the standard user interface common to all Windows applications. Or at
least it should be common. See if your applications measure up once
Mr Todd explains the Windows "rules of the road".
Programming PW Hot-Keys
The ability to use an A key sequence to make common menu selections
is one of the great features of Windows. Unfortunately, ObjectPAL
directly supported such mnemonics only for menu objects. Fortunately,
Mr McNeil shares his ObjectPAL techniques for allowing hot-key access
to any Windows control.
A GUI Design Manifesto
"Enough is enough! You're driving your users crazy!" cries Mr Wagner.
Why is he so upset? It's those awful interfaces that (sadly) too many
Paradox for Windows developers are unleashing on unsuspecting users.
Read this design polemic to find out how Windows GUI's are done.
Mine Field, a Lesson in ObjectPAL
You've played the game, now build the application. Mr Fung presents
us with a Paradox for Windows version of Microsoft's popular Mine-
sweeper game. You'll learn about ObjectPAL and have fun along the way.
Dynamic Forms
Rich the Windows graphical environment may be, but with its many
screen resolutions and resizable windows, it can be a real pain for
the developer to control. Mr Pierce helps out by showing us a way
to provide users with resizable PW forms and with just a
smattering of ObjectPAL.
Inside PAL
The TracTuner System is a PAL debugging utility with capabilities
that go far beyond those of even the version 4.5 PAL Debugger. This
month, in Part IV of his five part series, Mr Moore adds a scrollable
Watch window.
Expert Assist
It's the first installment of a new column where Paradox experts
answer your questions. This month, Dr Jensen shows us how to use the
Paradox for DOS Editor to provide wordwrap capability in PAL
applications. Just write to the Informant with your question to get
an "Expert Assist".
Columns and Rows
Wrapping up her two-part series on Understanding Data, this month
Ms Richter focuses on extended data types. Topics include BLObs
and OLE.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
It's Part V of Dr Jensen's ground-breaking PW Event Model series. The
topic is secondary event streams - what they are, their importance,
and how they affect the eventInfo packet. You won't find this in
the documentation.
Tools and Techniques
Mr Chalnick begins a three-part series about printing techniques that
every Paradox for Windows developer must know. This month, the focus
is on printing reports to file.
Reviews
AP Form 4.5
The respected third-party tool has been updated for the latest
version of Paradox-DOS. Mr Koulouris tells us if it's as good as
its predecessors.
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July 1994
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Developing SQL Applications in Paradox for Windows
The combination of Paradox for Windows and Borland SQL Link provides
powerful access to corporate database servers. In this comprehensive
guide, Mr Wright explains the issues and describes the necessary
programming. Specific topics include ObjectPAL enhancements, locking,
transactions, error handling, referential integrity, and performance.
SQL Spy
Mr Rajan presents us with SQL Spy, a client/server tool capable of
presenting information about a SYBASE/Microsoft SQL Server database
within Paradox for Windows. This information includes table
structures, indexes, referential integrity (depends) information,
and a user list. The best part is - it's all written in ObjectPAL.
Borland SQL Link to Microsoft SQL Server on Windows NT
Need a client/server environment operational in 3 hours? Sporting
a host of features, easy installation, and a top-notch interface,
you might want to give the Microsoft Windows NT/SQL Server
combination a spin. Mr Praegitzer with the step-by-step guide.
InterBase 4.0
InterBase 4.0 promises all the powerful functionality of the
current version-multi-generational architecture, BLObs, triggers,
and event alerters to name a few-all with a new SQL interface.
Ms Burton gives us a "sneak peek" of the upcoming product.
Expert Assist
Have you fired up Paradox 4.5 for DOS only to find that some of
your PAL applications don't look so hot? Well you're not alone! In
this month's Expert Assist, Dr Jensen explains how to quickly convert
your WAIT-based routines to adjust to the loss of compatible mode.
Interop Expert
The IDAPI technology at the heart of the next generation of Borland's
Windows database products is on the horizon. In this month's Interop
Expert, Ms Loud gives us an early look at the API to the new Borland
Database Engine. The first of a BDE series - Sessions and drivers.
Product Survey
Barcodes are an integral part of many businesses. So if you haven't
already, you might soon see them on a system requirements document
near you. Fortunately, as Mr Horn explains, the principles are
simple and there are many barcoding tools available.
UI Issues
You've probably discovered that the Borland Resource Workshop
that ships with the Paradox 4.5 Development Edition is tons of
fun. It's imminently useful too, as Mr White et al. point out.
How about creating DLLs with custom mouse pointers for instance?
OPAL Tech
Need a reusable clock, Field View indicator, Edit/View mode
indicator, or inactivity alarm? They're all made quickly possible
with the ObjectPAL timer method and some expertise from Mr Todd.
This month's OPAL Tech - an example-laden tour of a handy RTL method.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
Dr Jensen's important PW Event Model series continues with an
examination of how dot notation influences the event model.
Demonstration forms illustrate the use of the object variable
Self and how ObjectPAL responds when no target object is
specified for at RTL method.
Tools and Techniques
It's the second of a series on essential Paradox for Windows
printing techniques. This month, we learn how to control report
output at run-time on undelivered and delivered report objects.
As Mr Chalnick says, the solution is embarrassingly simple.
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August 1994
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To the Rescue!
Mr Goyette kicks off the issue with a detailed description of
building a Windows Help system. Third-party help utilities, help
topics, hot spots, context identifiers, help compilers, and ObjectPAL
implementation are all discussed. It's a one-stop guide to adding
Windows Help to your ObjectPAL applications.
Balloon Help
Balloon help offers instant pop-up assistance to insure that users
get the most from Windows applications. Using Mr Horn's generic table
-driven approach, you can now add balloon help to your PW programs
using ObjectPAL. Your users will be glad you did!
Floating Help
When native ObjectPAL doesn't provide what you need, it's time to
look to the Windows API. This month, Mr Rajan solves a chronic Windows
help problem with a custom DLL and some well-chosen ObjectPAL code.
Best of all, he's willing to share his secrets with us!
Paradox 5.0 for Windows
The new version of Paradox for Windows is here and it's loaded with
new features and enhancements. End-users will be delighted with the
new Coaches and Tutors while developers will be excited about the
greatly enhanced ObjectPAL Debugger. Both will find the seven new
field types very useful. Here's the first look at Borland's latest.
ObjectPAL 5.0
Paradox 5.0 for Windows represents a major upgrade for ObjectPAL
developers. At last count, there were 165 new methods and procedures
and 106 new constants. Mr Todd helps us get a grip on the ObjectPAL
cornucopia and demonstrates some of the important new capabilities.
Expert Assist
Last month's Expert Assist explained how to convert your Paradox 3.5
WAIT-based routines to version 4.x. It was very helpful, but what do
you do when there are too many options to fit on the 4.x SpeedBar? Dr
Jensen offers a generic pop-up approach.
Interop Expert
Ms Loud continues her Borland Database Engine series with an examin-
ation of the IDAPI DbiInit function. It's an inside look at the engine
behind Borland's next generation of database products. And you guessed
it! That includes Paradox 5.0 for Windows.
Columns and Rows
In Part I of a three-part series on database design, Ms Richter
begins with a description of various database models - flat file,
hierarchical, and network - before zeroing in on the relational model,
Codd's rules, and determining data types.
Client/Server
Interested in using InterBase or other SQL server as a back-end
to a PW client/server system, but not experienced with SQL-type
RDBMS's? Here's an introduction to InterBase for PW developers. The
emphasis is on data integrity and how to achieve it.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
In this wrap-up to his PW Event Model series, Dr Jensen recaps the
major concepts that underlie the way that ObjectPAL processes events.
External and internal events, the form prefilter, bubbling, and
secondary event streams are all revisited in this must-read final.
At Your Fingertips
It's the first "At Your Fingertips", a new column featuring quick
techniques that you can add to your Paradox for Windows bag of tricks.
Each month will bring a handful of unadorned quick tips presented in
question and answer format. Enjoy!
Windows Wire
Don't need, or necessarily want, your users to know that they're
using Paradox for Windows? Using an Application object, the hide
method, and a little Visual Basic, Mr Wagner demonstrates one
technique for masking PW from users.
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September 1994
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Multi-User Paradox
As Mr Pauker is quick to point out, if you want to write multi-user
Paradox for Windows applications, you need a solid understanding of
its table locking rules. Here's the best introduction to multi-user PW
we've seen. Among the topics are a comparison of the Paradox for DOS
and PW locking mechanisms, object-based locking, lock scoping, and
critical section locks.
TABLELOCK
Any multi-user Paradox for DOS application will make liberal use of the
PAL LOCK command. And the tenets of structured programming dictate a
generic table locking procedure. Unfortunately, the LOCK command resists
such generalization. Fortunately, Mr Saturnia has provided us with his
TABLELOCK procedure.
NetWare API Calls
Paradox Informant has presented many articles describing how to make
calls to the Windows API using ObjectPAL. This month, Mr Rajan shows
us how to call NetWare API functions to obtain a user's internetwork
address, login time, and more. A lot of information is presented,
including how to make DLL calls that require a pointer to an array.
Expert Assist
Paradox 4.5 for DOS introduced a little known table image setting that
allows you to highlight a table's current record or field. It does
require PAL, but only one command that can be issued easily from the
PAL Menu. Dr Jensen offers highlighting made easy.
Inside PAL
The TracTuner Utility offers the PAL 4.x developer information that
goes well beyond that offered by the native Debugger. Mr Moore finishes
his TracTuner series with a description of its reporting capabilities
and an overview of the series.
Interop Expert
In last month's installment of her Borland Database Engine series,
Ms Loud explained how the IDAPI DbiInit function is used to initialize
the BDE. This month, the discussion turns to opening databases and
table creation.
Tools and Techniques
As part three of his "Mandatory PW Reporting Techniques" Mr Chalnick
presents his Report Manager dialog box. It's an impressive and
instructive introduction to Paradox 5.0 for Windows' new reporting
capabilities. It's also our first version 5.0 tool!
OPAL Tech
The Paradox 5.0 for Windows coverage continues with a demonstration
of two new ObjectPAL methods: bringToFront and sendToBack. Mr Todd
shows us how to use them to easily provide Memo View capability in
a Paradox for Windows form.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
Paradox's temporary table capabilities are under-utilized and poorly
understood. In this month's PT&T, Dr Jensen sheds some light on one
of Paradox's classic features - and some of the new rules that apply
to Paradox for Windows temporary tables.
PW at Work
The Data Model is one of those Paradox for Windows features that sets
it apart from the competition. In this month's "Data Model Tricks"
Mr Smith relates the "how" and "why" of placing the same table twice
into a Data Model. (Aliases are the secret.)
At Your Fingertips
This month's batch of tips has a common theme. They all involve data
validation and the ObjectPAL action method.
Product Reviews
SpellBound
Kallista's latest product is a Paradox for Windows spell checking
utility named SpellBound. We asked Dr Jensen to let us know if it
measures up to Kallista's other products.
Teleform 3.0
If you're looking for a way to integrate fax output and Paradox,
Teleform may well be the tool you're looking for. Mr Horn gives
us a full report.
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October 1994
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ObjectPAL: The History by Joseph Fung
What do C++, Smalltalk, Self, Pascal -even Simula- have in common
with good ol' PAL? Why ObjectPAL of course! Mr Fung relates some of
the thinking and design decisions that went into the making of out
favorite programming language.
ObjectPAL: The Mystery by Mark Pauker
There are valuable programming techniques ... there are cool coding
tricks... then there's impossible ObjectPAL! Need to have a form
modify its source during runtime? Need to add custom ObjectPAL methods
to a report? Just remember - Mr Pauker makes it look easy.
Windows Interoperability
Our Dynamic Data Exchange coverage begins with a look at the basics:
What is DDE? and how does it work? Then Mr Horn gets to the nitty
gritty of how DDE is implemented in ObjectPAL. Very well, thank you.
OPAL Tech
Now that we understand what DDE is, let's put it to work! In this
month's column, Mr Todd presents us with all the information and
code necessary to control Windows Program Manager from Paradox
for Windows.
Expert Assist
Wouldn't it be great if you could add your own items and
functionality to the Paradox for DOS menus? Well, you can -
and it's easy. Let Dr Jensen tell you everything you need to know
about PARADOX.ADD.
PW at Work
Paradox 5.0 for Windows contains myriad modifications and
enhancements, large and small. If you're still finding your way
around the new tool, or are still deciding whether to upgrade, you'll
need to take Mr McIntire's visual tour of the new Form Designer.
Inside ObjectPAL
You could call it a containership trick, but Mr Leeper presents us
with space-saving. highly maintainable approach to field validation.
The trick part? Well - a box object doesn't have a changeValue
method. Or does it?
Paradox Tricks & Tips
Tilde variables have always offered great query flexibility, but
Paradox for Windows has taken the tilde operator to new lengths and
widths and heights! Would you believe tilde TCursors? Dr Jensen
explains some ObjectPAL capabilities you may not know about.
At Your Fingertips
And what does our popular tips column have to offer this month?
A way-cool method to suppress a pesky dialog box, 3-D graphics -
and of course, fun with WingDings.
Product Reviews
ReportSmith
LazaLabel
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November 1994
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In the Cross Hairs
Paradox 5.0 for Windows features a major revision of the ObjectPAL
Debugger. Mr Kadavanich provides a comprehensive introduction,
complete with tips and warnings.
PAL Tech
Mr Nelson presents PickRec, a PAL 4.x utility. When the arrays
get big - and memory and time are at a premium - you'll want this
PICKARRAY event handler on hand.
Columns and Rows
Normalize your database! Learn the importance of a primary key
and the first three normal forms as Ms Richter presents Part II
of her Database Design series.
OPAL Tech
So you'd like to be able to press a button with an A key? If you're
looking for hot-key buttons, look no further. Mr Todd makes it easy
with a ready-made custom procedure.
Expert Assist
It's a file named PXDLITE.INI and it allows you to add custom items
to PW's native menus. Mr Jensen gives us the low down on this handy
and (practically) undocumented feature.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
You want to disable the standard behavior of a built-in method, but
should you use setErrorCode or disableDefault? Mr Jensen clears up
some event model superstition.
Utilities
Need to check the spelling of the text, memo, and formatted memo
fields in a PW table? Mr Kranes presents Fast Spell, a spell
checking utility written entirely in ObjectPAL.
At Your Fingertips
A simple way to hide PW (and Windows) from users; restarting Windows
from PW; blinking text; and snappy screen updates - they're four
slick tips from Mr Rippy.
Informant Spotlight - Where Do I Put My Code?
It's a question as old as Paradox for Windows. Fortunately, time
and Mr Pauker are on our side. With PW now some twenty months old
the answers are now clearer, but still take the form of guidelines.
As guidelines go however, these are top-notch.
Product Reviews
Remote Office
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December 1994
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The 1994 Paradox Informant Reader's Choice Awards
You've done your job. Now it's our turn to showcase the choices
you've made as the best Paradox tools for the year. Some perennial
favorites have again taken their place, but there are some surprises...
Error Handling
Runtime error-handling is an arcane, yet vital aspect of ObjectPAL
development. In this month's Spotlight, Mr Bechmann guides us through
the undocumented error jungle.
Windows View
It's true! Paradox 5.0 for Windows is the only database product that
can be an OLE2 server and container. Ms Richter provides clear guide-
lines for taking advantage of the new capabilities.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
Creating custom menus was a hard pill to swallow, but no longer.
In this month's PT&T, Dr. Jensen's uncovers the simple secret of
ObjectPAL MenuCommand constants.
OPAL Tech
A required topic in Programming 101, the humble bubble sort is still
a workaday workhorse. But how to implement it in ObjectPAL? Mr Todd
provides an imminently downloadable answer.
Paradox Surgeon
The doctor is back! and now he does Windows. This month Mr Faulkner
uses a new PW 5.0 method to create an object-centering utility.
It has undocumented powers as well.
Paradox 101
Creating tables is simple and Dr Simons can prove it. This month he
introduces the basics of PW tables - how to plan, choosing the fields,
and selecting the appropriate field type.
PW at Work
You don't need queries to get a filtered view of your PW 5.0 data.
Nor ObjectPAL, as Mr McIntire demonstrates in his introduction to PW's
powerful new filtering capabilities.
UI Eye
You don't need funky glasses to make your PW screen look 3-D. This
month, Mr Goyette shows us how to create our own optical illusions
with PW Form Designer techniques.
At Your Fingertips
Q&A guru Mr Rippy presents techniques for creating marquee-style text
displays, calling other programs from PW, and a surprisingly simple
incremental search input field.
First Look - Delphi 95
It's new, exciting - and still in beta test. Nevertheless, Borland's
latest Windows development environment is definitely ready for a
"First Look". And just what does Delphi represent to PW developers?
Product Reviews - AppExpert
Have your user-interface objects become unmanageable? Or are you just
tired of repetitious coding to achieve basic functionality? Farpoint
Systems' AppExpert presents a solution as Mr Goyette explains.
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January 1995
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Paradox Queries
As Ms Richter declares, queries are the heart and soul of Paradox.
So if you aren't already putting Paradox's query engine to work for
you, here's an opportunity to enter the powerful - and surprisingly
easy - world of query-by-example.
Local SQL
The new Borland Database Engine that powers PW 5.0 is capable of
performing SQL queries against Paradox tables. It's a boon for
developers, says Mr Todd, but Local SQL has some limitations as well.
Top X/Bottom Y Revisited
Recognized query expert Mr Ehrmann shares his latest techniques for
approaching a classic query problem. Just how do you get the top 10
highest values of a particular field? A query may not be the best
solution ...
Easier Dynamic Queries
Don't hand craft each query in your ObjectPAL applications.
Especially when Dr Jensen offers a generic, custom method for just
that purpose. It's an update to one of last year's most popular
downloadables.
New Query Features
Several features that debuted in Paradox 5.0 for Windows involve
new and/or improved query functionality. Just in case you've missed
out, Mr Orriss provides us with a quick run-down.
Custom Experts
Arguably the most important new feature of Paradox 5.0 for Windows
is its open Expert architecture. But how to put it to use? It's
entirely undocumented! Or it was until Mr Ostroff's "Informant
Spotlight" offering.
Product Reviews
ezDialogs 1.1
Woll2Woll Software's ezDialogs 1.1 promises snappy, ready-made
dialog boxes that you can easily plug into Paradox for Windows
version 4.5 and 5.0 applications. And as Mr Rajan explains -
it delivers!
Paradox Tools
Visage for Windows
ParaStat for Windows
ProjEx (Project Expert)
InfoModeler 1.5
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February 1995
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Import/Export ObjectPAL
So just what do you do when Paradox for Windows can't import the
data you need? Mr Todd has the answer and shows us how to "roll our
own" TextStream import/export utilities.
DDE Export Tool
Mr Chalnick presents the DDE Export Tool - a utility for sending PW
data to Word for Windows. And it's loaded with features like drag-
and-drop data entry, hot-keys, and reusable objects.
Sliding Around
PW comes with a lot of handy UIObjects, but the scrollbar (or slider
as it's sometimes called) is not one of them. That's no longer a
problem with Mr Litzky's scrollbar clip objects.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
There are those who say we should avoid form-level code at all costs,
but should this be taken as gospel? Dr Jensen answers the question
"Is form-level code a sin?"
At Your Fingertips
Mr Rippy is back! And he's got tips! This month it's precise object
placement, the effect of Compile With Debug, easy project tracking,
and automatic form resizing.
Inside ObjectPAL
Mr Galambos overcomes some of the limitations of the Query object
and presents a slick tool for creating user-defined queries at run-
time. It's another ObjectPAL downloadable!
Product Reviews
Visage for Windows
Ensemble's latest add-in makes it easier to create and design
Paradox for Windows forms and reports. Mr Kadavanich reports that
it's definitely worth a look.
Paradox Tools
ReportSmith 2.5
Database Designer 2.0 for Windows
TurboFolder 3.0
R&R Report Writer 6.0 for Windows
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March 1995
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Designer Reports
Creating and modifying reports for a production PW application can
be a daunting, and often tedious, task. Mr Leeper offers a table-
driven reporting form that will help developers and users alike.
One Label After Another
Despite the very useful Label Expert, printing labels from PW can
still be a challenge. What if you need to print on Cheshire labels?
Or need to print just one label? Mr Todd has the answers to these
questions and more.
Report Preview Controller
Okay - you've added report preview capability to you ObjectPAL
application. Guess what? The user now has access to the PW menu.
Fortunately, Mr Galambos has presented us with a utility providing
run-time report control.
Welcome Additions
PW 5.0's PXDLITE.INI feature allows for much control of the PW
menu. But what if you need even more control? Or what if you're
using PW 4.5? Mr O'Connell and the Windows API provide a solution.
PW at Work
Paradox 5.0 for Windows' interactive filtering capabilities are
first-rate. This month, Mr McIntire demonstrates that there's
plenty of filtering power from the ObjectPAL side as well.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
Calling procedures from ObjectPAL libraries can be labor intensive.
To lessen the work load, Dr Jensen presents a time-saving library
component. It's the first of a two-part series.
Inside ObjectPAL
The object variable, self, is a boon to ObjectPAL developers,
but does it always behave as advertised? This month, Mr Kocis
answers the question: "What is self?"
Paradox 101
Continuing his beginner series, this month Dr Simons turns to
the Paradox for Windows report. It's a painless introduction to
the Report Expert and more.
Inside the BDE
Borland Database Engine expert Ms Loud presents us with a system
management utility built with the BDE. And hang on to your hat -
there's a lot of C++ to consider.
At Your Fingertips
Don't have time for an entire article? How bout some tips? Mr Rippy
demonstrates how to play audio clips, handle numeric data in
undefined fields, respond to mouseEnter events in forms without
focus, and print a table's structure.
Windows Report Writer Shoot-Out
The three leading Windows report writers - Crystal Reports 4.0,
ReportSmith 2.5, and R&R Report Writer 6.0 - are all out in new
versions. So who's best? Mr Sims reports from the shoot-out.
Book Reviews
Creating Paradox for Windows Applications
Paradox 5.0 for Windows Handbook
Paradox 5.0 for Windows Slick Tricks
teach yourself ... Paradox 5.0 for Windows
Technical Foundations of Client/Server Systems
Paradox Tools
TurboPAL 1.0
SQL Coder 1.1
Versions 1.1
Nimbus Report Writer
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April 1995
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From the Source
Two ObjectPAL methods, enumSource and enumSourceToFile, seek out and
report all modified methods. But the output - a table or text file -
is not particularly reader-friendly. Mr Horn uses DDE and Word for
Windows to make the source code pretty.
A Quiet Revolution
A method of writing programs that is truly self-documenting, called
literate programming, just might be in your future. Best of all, it
works with PAL and ObjectPAL. Let Informant weave you through noweb.
A PW Source Code Tool
Mr Leeper presents us with a source code tool built entirely in
Paradox for Windows. A form presents a list of objects to document
and the ObjectPAL-generated output is sent to a PW report object.
A Paperless Catalog
Sometimes the best documentation takes the form of a Windows help
system. Mr Graf provides us with a PW utility that creates a
completely-compiled Windows help file based on a PW table. It's
documentation you can upgrade overnight.
Welcome Additions: Part II
Last month, Mr O'Connell demonstrated some of the many advantages
of using Windows API functions to manipulate PW menus. This month
he does the impossible - like providing individual PW forms with
menus.
OPAL Tech
When it comes to manipulating the Windows Clipboard, there are a
couple of holes in the ObjectPAL tool kit. Fortunately for us, Mr
Todd has filled these vacancies with some ready-made custom methods.
Paradox Tricks & Tips
Last month Dr Jensen introduced us to library components, modified
box objects that greatly simplify ObjectPAL library calls. This month
he presents us with a tool that automates library component creation.
PW at Work
Two-state buttons. You know - you push them in and they stay in until
you push them again. It seems simple enough, but providing the PW
button object with this behavior is no simple matter, as Mr Bowler
points out.
Inside ObjectPAL
You probably donÆt use the ObjectPAL Session type. However, there are
some very important reasons why you should - data integrity for one.
Mr Kellen provides us with some valuable information about this
important type.
Product Reviews - ezDOC 2.0 & ObjectSpy 2.0
It's a relief to have helpful tools to produce professional-quality
documentation for your applications. Mr Muir lets us know if these
two third-party tools make the mark.
Paradox Tools
DynaZIP 2.0
MediaDeveloper 2.0
AccuMail
WorXBench 1.1