Modes
In the File Maker
Pro database there are 4 different modes: browse (through a multitude of
different layouts that can be used for reports), find, layout, and preview. The
database on-line, however, does not offer those same choices. On-line there are
two layouts for browsing the cable information-TABLE and FORM view (the Cable
Request Check and the Data Entry layout reports) In the TABLE view, groups of
cable data are shown, while the FORM view offers more detailed information on
an individual cable. This on-line database also allows one to search through
the categories depending on what information is desired. To search for
particular cables, go to the SEARCH mode. Make sure your query is in the proper
category for your particular search. For example, to find all cables that
originate in building MI40 and rack 203, type MI40203 in the Origin row. It is
useful to use the browse mode to understand the type of commands to type in for
a successful search. You can also further sort the data by going to SORT. You
can sort by Origin, Destination, Function, and Cable type.
Using the field marked
One of the fields displayed in the data entry report is marked.
Marked is useful to distinguish the newly entered records from the old records.
This allows those particular records to be accessed at a later date through a
simple search for the mark. You can mark the data with any character(s) as long
as those characters are not already marking another group of cables in the
database. This concept is useful for creating labels, especially if you need to
use a different computer to print the labels out.
Using Layouts as Reports and for
Labeling
File Maker Pro allows reports to be
prepared using the LAYOUT mode. Using this mode, create new layouts that
reflect the desired report. There are already some reports created on the
database. Using the PREVIEW mode enables one to see what the printed reports
will look like. The Labeling layout is titled as SD-20-361-RX2 for duplicate
labels on the same page. Or use SD-20-361-RX1 for one set of labels (print
twice for duplicates). If one doesn't want to report on all the cables, do a
search before printing (searching for the cables needed for the report).
Editing and Importing Data in File Maker Pro
4.1
To use the File Maker Pro Database is
relatively easy. To change or delete a record from the database, one first must
be in the BROWSE mode and preferably in the DATA ENTRY LAYOUT in File Maker
Pro. To change a record, one simply has to change the data in BROWSE mode.
Since File Maker Pro automatically saves changes, you can exit the program
immediately without having to save anything. To delete a record, highlight the
unwanted record (or if in the data entry mode just go to the menu) and then
select DELETE RECORD under the menu options (under MODE). To add a new record,
go to the MODE menu and select new record. Fill in the blank record with the
proper information. To import cable information from another program, such as
Excel, first edit the data in the original program. Make sure that all the
needed data columns are there. Then select all the data using the mouse and the
select all of the data and save it as a csv (Comma delimited) file. Open this
file in an editor such as Nedit or Window's notepad. Make sure there are no
extraneous elements in the data and save the edited file. Next open the Main
Injector Database. Go to the FILE menu for File Maker Pro and select
IMPORT/EXPORT and IMPORT RECORDS. Select the correct file and open it. Make
sure in the next screen to match up the proper fields, then import the data. A
message will come up about import options, it should be on auto enter options.
Once this is done, one will see the selected new imported data. Delete the
first record if that record contains the column labels and not real data. If
something is not correct here, either edit the records or one can also choose
to delete all records. Make sure when deleting all records that only the new
imported records are being deleted. A message prompts if you want to delete all
(a number) of records. If that number is the same as the import number, then
delete the records.
Cable Request Forms and Process
The person in charge of the specific system in the Main
Injector is responsible for filling out a Main Injector Cable Request Form with
the cables they need pulled. This list is to be sent via email to Database
Manager Evelyn Aponte (aponte@fnal.gov), Task Manager Jim Ranson
(ranson@fnal.gov), and George Krafczyk (krafczyk@fnal.gov).
For uniformity, there are certain specifications for
filling out these Request Forms. It is imperative that one uses the Request
Form to ensure that all crucial information about the cables is recorded and
stored into the database. This form can be downloaded from the server at
\\Beamssrv1\minjectr.bd\Cable Database.
In the same area as the Request Form, there are files
containing instructions and tables pertaining to filling out these forms:
Cablespec.doc (specifications for Main Injector Cable Labeling), CABLESTY
(Table 1, Cable Codes/Types), Orig_Dest (Table 2, Origin/Destination examples),
Machine (Table 3, Machine/Beam Line Designators), System (Table 4, System
Designators), and Service Buildings (Table 5, Service Buildings).
If there are any questions concerning these tables
and/or how to fill out the Request Form, please contact George Krafczyk. Once
the Request Form has been sent in, Evelyn will assign numbers and print out
labels as requested.