## D

#### database

A database is a bank of related data. Each unit (record) of the database is typically organized in a fixed format to make it easier to retrieve selected portions of the data on demand. Each record is made up of one or more data fields, and each data field can hold one piece of data (known as a value).

#### data field

A data field (or field) is the basic building block of a record. Each record is made up of one or more data fields, and each data field can hold one piece of data (known as a value). A customer record in a typical customer mailing list database might contain data fields similar to these: Name, Address, City, State, Zip, Phone, Fax. A data field can be empty or contain a value. Data field data is generally displayed or printed in columns in the Details section of a report.

#### data source

A data source is a database, table, query, dictionary, Info View or stored procedure result set that provides the data for a report.

#### data type

A data type is a classification of the data that appears in a field or formula. Each piece of data used in a report or formula has one of the following data types: string, currency, number, date, date/time, time, or Boolean (TRUE/FALSE). It is important to understand data types because each function and operator works with only a limited number of data types (often as few as one). For some operators (+ and - for example), the program uses a different set of calculation rules for one type of data than it uses for another.

#### debug

Eliminating errors that occur when you run a formula.

#### default

A default is a pre-loaded response to a software request for data. It is the response the computer accepts automatically if you do not enter different data.

#### Details area

A collection of one or more Details sections (i.e., Details A, Details B, etc.).

#### Details section

The Details section of a report is the core section of the report. You structure the report in this section by inserting data fields, formulas, and other report elements.

#### dictionary

A one-stop, ready-to-use source of data that is usually created for end users by computer professionals within the organization. The dictionary takes away the need for the end user to search multiple databases, struggle with links, build formulas, and decode cryptic field names. The user just selects the data he or she needs from the dictionary and builds the report.

#### divide by zero protection

PCs will not allow you to divide a number by zero. If you attempt such a division, you will get a system error message. To prevent a system error, the program refuses to print a report which contains a formula that divides a value by zero.

#### drag

Drag can mean different things, depending on the context in which the word is used:

- When referring to moving a field, drag means to click the field frame and, while keeping the mouse button pressed, move the frame to a new position. You release the mouse button when the field is in the desired position.
- When referring to resizing a field, drag means to click one of the field frame handles and, while keeping the mouse button pressed, make the field bigger or smaller. You release the button when the field is the desired size.
- When referring to formatting text, drag means to highlight text by moving the I-beam cursor across it while the mouse button is pressed. You release the button when you have finished highlighting.

#### Dynamic Link Library (DLL)

A Dynamic Link Library (DLL) is a special kind of file that contains Windows functions. DLLs are used by developers to extend the capabilities of Windows applications. The library is activated whenever an application or another DLL calls a function in the library. DLLs link on the fly, at runtime, whenever an included function is called. DLL functions are available on an as-needed basis to any program that can call DLLs; they do not need to be linked to the program via the compiler. The Crystal Report Engine can be called as a DLL by developers for use with applications they are developing.

Seagate Software, Inc. http://www.seagatesoftware.com Please send comments to: techpubs@seagatesoftware.com