Data field processing involves transferring data between a data variable and an edit buffer and back again. When data is displayed in a field, a conversion process takes place. The underlying data is converted to a string (the edit buffer) and displayed. The user edits this string representation of the data. When the user leaves the data field, the system validates the user's entry. When the user exits the form, the string is then converted back to the underlying data type.
You can control data field processing by setting data field options. There are data field options to control the following: field display, the user interface, and data conversions. The system respects all option settings during processing.
This chapter describes data field processing and how to control processing by setting field options. Chapter 16, "Data Form Processing Options," describes how to control processing by setting form level options.
