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About database extensions
FirstClass database extensions add functionality to servers. You can use database extensions to send and receive data through FirstClass. A common use for a database extension is to provide access to a third-party database. For example, a user can enter a search string on a FirstClass form, and the target database will return a hit list based on this search.
To add a database extension to a server, you must create:
• a database extension code file built with the FirstClass Database Toolkit
• a settings file containing the custom forms that work with the database extension.
Most database extensions are called by a main form that you create as stationery and bind to the database extension. Depending on your design, the database extension may perform all functions in this one form, or open additional forms as required.
Tips for creating the main form
Create the main form with a "Type" of Form Stationery and a "Range" of Database Query.
To bind this form to the database extension, use the "To names" field (field ID 9).
Assign all buttons a command number of zero.
To tell the database extension which tab has the focus, select "Send clicks to server" for tab controls.
To make a database extension collapse and expand a collapsible group, call Set long where zero is collapse and one is expand.
Tips for creating additional forms
Create any additional forms with a "Type" of Form Template and a "Range" of Database Hit List.
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