About user-defined data types

The term "user-defined data type" refers to a named group of data values that can be used as a list source for a component. For example, a user-defined data type named "Size" could invoke a list of values consisting of "Small," "Medium," and "Large."

You can create user-defined data types and add values to them using the User Defined Types form. Value and Description pairs display in a two-column list for each type that you define. The list of all values for all user-defined data types are included in the User Defined Type Values form.

After a user-defined data type is specified as the source for a component that supports lists (a combo box, for example), users can add values to the type directly through the right-click menu Add function. In the example provided, a user might add the value "X-Large."

User-defined data types are often useful with user-extended tables (UETs). They can also be used with user-defined fields. Users can add list-type components to forms without modifying the schema or IDOs or writing special form code.