Release 10.1A: OpenEdge Development:
AppBuilder

> ## SmartFilters

> The query you build into your SmartDataObject might return thousands—or even millions—of records. A return of such size can totally overwhelm users, causing them to fervently wish for a way to further subset the data stream. AppBuilder offers an ADM SmartObject to deal with that problem: SmartFilter.

> SmartFilter provides a query-by-form (QBF) interface to the data stream supplied by your SmartDataObject. Using SmartFilter, the user of your application can narrow the query as much as desired, possibly causing the query to return only a few records or even no records at all. Being able to focus the query more tightly can be very convenient for the user.

> As seen by the user, SmartFilter is rather simple. Each filterable field is represented by one or two editable fields representing a value and a comparison operator. The user controls the object’s behavior using three buttons:

> - Apply filter — Immediately activates the filter, reducing the size of the data stream. To clear the effect of a filter, the user must choose Blank and then Apply.

> - Blank — Clears all editable fields and resets the operators (if visible) to their default states, ready for the next setup.

> - Reset — Restores the most recent filter expressions. Does not clear the fields.

> SmartFilter is supplied as a pre-compiled master rather than as a template.

> | To include an instance of SmartFilter in your application:

> 1. Click on the SmartFilter tool icon in the Object Palette:

> 2. There might be a short pause while AppBuilder creates the instance. Position the cursor over the workspace and click to place the instance.

> 3. If you previously placed a SmartDataObject, AppBuilder now opens an Advisor window offering to create a `Filter` link to it. Unless you have reason not to do so, accept the offer:

> 4. Inspect the properties for this SmartFilter and change any that do not meet your needs. See the "Configuring SmartFilter properties" section for information about how to do that.

> 5. When you have finished making changes, choose OK to dismiss the properties dialog box.

> 6. Click the object to select it. Drag the handles to position and size the object to suit your layout. Your SmartFilter is now ready for use.

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