FormBuilder/AppBuilder: FormBuilder Tutorial

Description

This is a general tutorial for developing a BBj Resource file using FormBuilder. For more background, refer to the FormBuilder Overview.

Mount a directory within the NetBeans Filesystem

Mount a Directory of preference. The instructions in this tutorial assume a mounted the C:\src directory.

Create an ARC resource file

Now create an .arc file, named tutorial.arc in this tutorial.

Launch the FormEditor via the BBjGui Inspector

formbuildertutorial1.png

The Inspector now displays on the right side of the NetBeans IDE. If it does not display, right-click the .arc file and select the Display BBjGui Inspector Action.

Double-click the Node labeled 101 Form to launch the Form Editor.

formbuildertutorial2.png

Add a control to the Window via the Palette

Select the Display Palette Action by right-clicking the .arc file node. Select a button from the Palette.

formbuildertutorial3.png

Click on the form within the Form Editor to add the button to the form.

formbuildertutorial4.png

In FormEditor, the dots appear around a button to signify the button is selected. The corresponding button node within the BBjGui Inspector is also selected.

formbuildertutorial5.png

Modify the properties of the button

Select the Display Properties Action by right-clicking the .arc file node.

formbuildertutorial6.png

Save the .arc file

Save the resource by clicking the save tool button.

formbuildertutorial7.png

You successfully created an .arc file which could be used in a BBj program that employs the RESOURCE Mnemonic.

See Also

AppBuilder Tutorial