Improved FORM EDIT Command: Access Form Objects Easily
The 4D language allows you to develop outstanding business applications. Many of you have taken the initiative to create tools that streamline specific tasks: code, validating links to external elements like images, converting legacy code to ORDA, managing XLIFF resource files, or facilitating refactoring. These custom solutions enhance productivity and foster innovation.
In 4D 20 R8, the FORM EDIT command has evolved. You can now open a form and select a form object.
For instance, you can list the objects in a form from an analysis and introspection tool. Double-clicking on an element in the list will open the form, and you can select the form object to modify one of its properties using the new syntax of the command.
4D Write Pro commands optimized again!
As each new version is released, we take into account the feedback we receive from our customers on the general use of 4D Write Pro and its commands. While remaining 100% compatible, some commands and language functions are evolving!
Some commands, whose syntax have been improved in 4D 20 R8, now allow the use of modern parameters such as objects or collections. Others are now functions, making them easier to use. Finally, a number of new functions have been created. All this will make your code simpler, more generic and easier to maintain!
Enhanced Session Management for Development and Testing
With the latest 4D updates, we’ve extended the Session command to the Client/Server connection, enabling access to session storage at the Client level. Pairing this functionality with the new ‘Restrict’ event in ORDA classes makes filtering results based on session data—such as privileges, roles, or even geographic areas—easier than ever.
Developing an application in 4D meant working in a local environment, such as a single user. In standalone mode, the Session command always returned Null. This meant that you had to write complex code, checks whether the Session object was Null to read from “Storage” or “Session.storage”. This workaround, while functional, was not elegant.
With 4D 20 R8, this is no longer an issue. The Session command now returns a valid object, even in standalone mode, simplifying application development and testing.
4D View Pro: Excel import/export update
As part of 4D View Pro‘s continuous development, we’ve expanded the Excel import and export functionalities in 4D 20 R8. In this update, new language options have been added to align with the interface capabilities and give you more control over the exported workbook.
Managing Project Dependencies Has Never Been Easier
With the latest updates to the Project Dependency Manager in 4D 20 R8, your projects are always a step ahead. Dependencies are regularly checked for updates, giving you access to the latest versions and enabling you to make informed decisions about when and how to integrate changes.
Additionally, you’re in full control with the ability to edit dependency rules, providing unmatched flexibility. Adjust these rules—whether to opt for the latest version, up to the next major, or up to the next minor version—to ensure your project evolves on your terms, balancing innovation with stability.
Empower Your Development Process with your forms
During the development phase, early detection of syntax errors is important for producing quality code. Real-time code checking is a valuable aid to developers. Not only does it improve efficiency, it also enhances quality and boosts productivity. By correcting errors immediately, you can concentrate on the functional development of your application, rather than on annoying bugs that crop up during compilation.
With 4D 20 R8, we’re delighted to introduce two new features that will transform the way you work.
- The first is the ability to associate a class with a form, enabling syntax checking with expressions such as Form.myProperty.
- The second is a real-time check of expressions in the property list, with a description of the error or warning displayed.
4D 20 R8 Beta Starts Today
Beta testing for 4D 20 R8 starts today, introducing a powerful release designed to simplify your workflow and expand your development capabilities.
- Smarter Syntax Checking in Form Editor: Detect errors early with enhanced validation, auto-completion, and object instantiation support.
- Form Editing Made Easy: Open forms and select objects directly with the updated FORM EDIT command for faster edits.
- HTTP Request Handlers: Manage incoming web requests with precision using the 4D HTTP Server’s powerful new features.
- Debugging in VS Code: Debug 4D code directly in Visual Studio Code with the new 4D-Debugger extension.
- Enhanced Document Handling: Simplify sections, tables, and content management in 4D Write Pro with updated commands.
- Excel Integration Updates: Gain greater control over Excel file imports and exports in 4D View Pro.
- And that’s not all — There are even more features to explore!
Download 4D 20 R8 now (Exclusive to 4D Partners)
4D 20 R7 is Here
Introducing 4D 20 R7 – Available Now!
Here’s a quick look at the user-focused enhancements in this release:
Download 4D 20 R7 (monthly Hot Fixes available)
- Qodly Studio for 4D: Debug and preview web applications directly from your 4D server, saving time and effort.
- OutgoingMessage Class: Deliver custom files or data effortlessly in your web apps, with complete control over HTTP responses.
- Direct Typing: Declare variables directly in your code, ensuring accuracy and clarity in your projects.
- Session Singletons: Handle user-specific data seamlessly for smoother web and client-server experiences.
- Process Management Tools: Gain insights and manage processes faster with updated commands.
- IMAP API Enhancements: Track unread emails across mailboxes in one quick step.
- 4D View Pro: Visualize data with new charts, drag-and-drop tools, and improved Excel integration.
- More robust Security: Protect your applications with enhanced server certificate validation.
This is just a glimpse of what’s available in 4D 20 R7. Download 4D 20 R7 and discover how far you can go with this feature release.
QODLY STUDIO FOR 4D: WHAT’S NEW IN 4D 20 R7
We’re sure you’ll be pleased to explore the new features Qodly Studio for 4D brings with 4D 20 R7.
Keep discovering this powerful platform—a robust and user-friendly solution for building business web applications with minimal coding effort.
Integrated within 4D, Qodly Studio for 4D allows you to leverage existing business logic developed for desktop applications.
Let’s dive into the details and see how your app can deliver more than just data while offering a dynamic user interface and strong data protection through setting up privileges.
Tips & Tricks for your 4D Apps – December 2024 Edition
by Add Komoncharoensiri, Director of Technical Services at 4D Inc
Here we go with another set of tips and tricks.
The 4D Knowledge Base is a library of information about 4D technology where weekly tech tips and monthly tech notes are actively published. If you missed the last tips on the KB, that’s fine; here is a compilation from the past few weeks.
This blog post covers 15 tips:
Contact us
Got a question, suggestion or just want to get in touch with the 4D bloggers? Drop us a line!
* Your privacy is very important to us. Please click here to view our Policy