Element

Elements are field definition parameters for an attribute. An element defines the attribute field's maximum number of characters and data type. All attributes must be assigned an element. An element must exist before you can define an attribute using that element.

You can define an element as:

  • Alpha type (up to 32 characters)

  • Numeric type (up to 18 characters)

  • Signed numeric type (up to 18 characters)

  • Date type (up to eight characters).

    Note: A user-defined attribute can use any Lawson-defined or user-defined element.

Elements can be Lawson-defined or user-defined.

  • Lawson-defined elements are pre-loaded, along with Lawson-defined attributes, using Attribute, Element Load (MX100).

    Example

    Lawson-defined element: LOCATION

    Data type: Alpha

    Size: 15

    Note: This Lawson-defined element is used for attribute LOCATION. It can also be used for any user-defined attribute of data type Alpha and size 15.

  • You can create as many user-defined elements as you want, provided you remain within the data type and size restrictions listed above.

    Example

    User-defined element: ALPHA 10

    Data type: Alpha

    Size: 10

    Note: This element can be used for any user-defined attribute of type Alpha and size 10.