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One simple improvement that can be
easily added to character-based applications is use of graphics.
This, of course, is only possible when using a terminal emulator
that supports images, like AccuTerm. Images can be used to make a
data entry screen more visually appealing, or to provide useful
information on an inquiry screen. For example, an Inventory
maintenance screen might show an image of the part, or an order
tracking query might show the signature of the receiver.
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All commonly used
terminals, and emulations of those terminals, provide standard
editing and cursor keys. Users familiar with typical Windows
programs expect that pressing one of the cursor direction keys will
cause the cursor to move in that direction. Or that pressing the
Delete key will delete the character under the cursor.
Traditionally, Multi-Value applications have relied on the simple
BASIC INPUT statement for the majority of data entry tasks. The only
editing supported by the INPUT statement is the Backspace key!
Twenty years ago, this may have been the only option, but all modern
Multi-Value platforms support single character input allowing the
application total control over the input process. Given the advances
in processing power, the increased overhead of processing keyboard
input on a character-by-character basis is no longer a major
concern.
Adopting modern input processing for character-based applications
requires the input function to return not only text, but also
commands, in a terminal-independent format. The command indicates if
a non-text key like a function, cursor or editing key was pressed.
Some Multi-Value platforms include utilities that automatically
decode control and escape sequences into terminal independent
keyboard commands. Alternatively, use AccuSoft’s Smart User
Interface routines, or write a custom routine.
Once keyboard text and commands are properly recognized, the
application needs to perform actions depending on the command (for
example, moving to the next field when the Tab key is pressed).
Other improvements should include consistent use of function keys,
navigation using Tab, Back Tab, and cursor keys.
Finally, since most terminal emulators include some kind of mouse
support, a modern input processor should decode mouse clicks into
special keyboard commands, which the application can use for
navigation.
Applications written using a 4GL inherit the input processor from
the underlying 4GL environment. If the 4GL does not include robust
input processing, modernizing the input functions may not be
possible without cooperation from the 4GL vendor.
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