A presentation format is selected by specifying the PresentationType property. The PresentationType property comprises the following options:

Graphical

The Graphical format allows the addition of graphical objects listed in the toolbox to a form for creating AB Suite applications. This format is most suitable for GUI screens that can display the greatest range of visual objects, such as check boxes, list boxes, and images. For an AB Suite User Experience mode model, the PresentationType property is set to Graphical and is read-only. Furthermore, you cannot use System Modeler Painter for developing user interfaces in AB Suite User Experience mode model. The development of user interface for an AB Suite User Experience mode model is achieved by using external tools for the chosen technology.

Fixed

The Fixed format is most suitable for character-based screens that are unable to display complex graphics. This format limits the graphical objects to Labels, Text Fields, and PasswordFields. Note that there is a limited range of available colors and fonts in a Fixed presentation.

Graphical and Fixed

The Graphical and Fixed format allows you to create either a graphical or fixed form, or both. It allows you to have different versions of the same form, which can be accessed from either a graphical or character-based screen.

Print

In the Print format, the addition of graphical objects to the form is limited to only Labels. This format is ideal for printing report outputs.

None

Generally, this is the default value for the PresentationType property and is selected for elements that do not require a form. The exception to this is CopyEvents and CopyIspecs which have a default value of Graphical but can be changed to Fixed and Graphical & Fixed.

Refer to Common Properties for more information on setting the Font, Foreground color, and Background color for each of these presentation types of AB Suite applications.