Version 4.2.6 for Mainframes (Update)
 —  Programming Guide  —

Maps

As an alternative to specifying screen layouts dynamically, the INPUT statement offers the possibility to use predefined map layouts which makes use of the Natural object type "map".

This document covers the following topics:


Benefits of Using Maps

Using predefined map layouts rather than dynamic screen-layout specifications offers various advantages such as:

The benefit of using programming objects such as maps will become obvious when it comes to maintaining existing Natural applications.

Top of page

Types of Maps

Maps (screen layouts) are those parts of an application which the users see on their screens.

The following types of maps exist:

The object type "map" comprises

Related Topics:

Top of page

Creating Maps

Maps and help map layouts are created and edited in the map editor. The appropriate LDA is created and maintained in the data area editor.

Depending on the platform on which Natural is installed, these editors have either a character user interface or a graphical user interface.

Related Topics:

Top of page

Starting/Stopping Map Processing

An input map is invoked with an INPUT USING MAP statement.

An output map is invoked with a WRITE USING MAP statement.

Processing of a map can be stopped with an ESCAPE ROUTINE statement in a processing rule.

Top of page