Input mask for phone numbers

[hl7]

Simple request: I want to design an input mask on a field called Phone. When a user enters in a phone number, it replaces the input as follows: ###-###-#### (for North American phone numbers). I can do it with two fields; one with a calculation and one in which the user inputs the number. I then place the calculated field physically on top of the input field on the top layer with a white field formatted background. It simulates a field level input mask but is sloppy in construction. I have to always remember this special arrangement whenever I do interface/layout changes. Also, I have at least four different types of phone number fields which would require an additional four calculation fields…

 

I’ve played with field level validation, but that doesn’t seem to give me the capacity to change the field at will. It just seems to give me the power to block the user from entering invalid data based on my parameters. I would love to be corrected or be shown the path to true enlightenment…! ;-)

[aaa]

What is your problem?

[FileMakin' Tom]

This is the traditional method for parsing phone numbers. In fact, one of my most requested instruction files demonstrates how to do it even if the entry is incorrect as well as a choice of whether to diplay internet format or standard format.

 

I believe that FMP 7.0 has the ability to set a phone field to parse within the field. I do not use FMP 7.0.

 

Be well . . .

 

Tom

[hl7]

Thanks, if there is no other solution then I will use the one I described in my post. I forgot to mention that I was using FM 6, so I too cannot use the new features of 7.