What is a metatype?

• use a metatype proposed in the data model editor.
• create your own metatypes.

Using a metatype proposed by the data model editor

1. In the data model editor, display the description of the desired data file items (double-click on the data file).
2. Click .
3. The following window is displayed:
   
4. Specify a keyword in the combo box and click the "Find" button. Once the requested metatype is found, click its image. Its characteristics are displayed.
5. Validate. The corresponding item is automatically created.

Creating a metatype that will be proposed by the data model editor

1. In the data model editor, display the description of the desired data file items (double-click on the data file).
2. Click .
3. The window for managing the metatypes is displayed.
4. Click the "New " button (below the "User metatypes" option) to create a metatype.
5. In the window that is displayed, specify:
   • in the "General" tab:
     • Name of the metatype.
     • Description of the metatype.
     • Image of the metatype.
   • in the "Parameters" tab:
     • the type and the sub-type of the item (this information corresponds to the options selected for the base item of the metatype).
     • the default value.
     • the shared information (this information corresponds to the options selected for the base item of the metatype).
   • in the "Advanced" tab
     The keywords associated with the metatype. These keywords are used to easily find a metatype.
6. Validate the creation of the metatype. The metatype is saved in a file in XML format. By default, this file is saved in the "\Personal\Metatype" subdirectory of WINDEV, WEBDEV or WINDEV Mobile. This metatype can then be imported into the data model editor of another computer.

Importing a metatype into the data model editor

1. In the data model editor, select "Analysis .. Import a user metatype".
   Note: To access this option, use:
   • The icons
   • The main menu accessible via the logo of the product version:
     
2. Select the XML file corresponding to the metatype to import. This XML file was created when creating the metatype.