Database Reference
In-Depth Information
Control is a tribute to the antique database called a file cabinet. Our forefathers used a paper
device with a protruding tab, called a folder, to organize their documents.) Tab Controls
provide a way to organize data on a layout so you can focus on a few chunks of data at a
time. Tab Controls also let you put far more information on the same layout without making
it gigantic or cramming it with data. You've seen similar objects in other software programs,
even other places in FileMaker itself. For example, the Inspector has four tabs that are used
for organizing all the information it holds. A layout Tab Control works much the same way
(although without the collapsible sections).
Figure 4-16
shows the Lease Agreement layout
reorganized using a Tab Control.
Creating a Tab Control
Tab Controls are easy to draw, but since it can be tricky dividing the objects on an existing
layout among the new tabs, you'll need to do a little prep work. The process is easier on a
larger monitor but you can do it even on a small one. First, expand the database's window as
large as your monitor will allow. If it's not big enough to show you about double the width of
space as you currently have showing, try Zooming out. Take a look at
Figure 4-16
to see the
new design you're aiming for.
