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PDF Forms - User cannot leave Boxes or fields blank

gsolorio3
Registered: Dec 10 2010
Posts: 14

We have a document we created in PDF format and have added boxes for users to complete, also called a PDF form. Currently, the user can enter values in the boxes provided if they wish to or leave the boxes blank (e.g. enter numeric values or text etc...). But we have an issue with the PDF form and we would like some input from the forum or perhaps some guidance. We have certain boxes (or fields) that require the user to enter a numeric value (or anything). Is there a way to do this? For example, if the user tries to print the form, they will not be able too until the user enters data in the boxes. And even highlight the boxes requiring the boxes to be completed? Is there such a thing, perhaps a script or some setup.
 
Any information is greatly appreciated.
 
We currently have Acrobat Pro 9 and 10, both on a Windows and Mac platform.
 
Thank you!
Gilbert
 

My Product Information:
Acrobat Pro 10.0, Windows
gkaiseril
Expert
Registered: Feb 23 2006
Posts: 4308
In what program will the forms be created in?

Acrobat and LiveCycle Designer have different programing scripting languages and syntax.


George Kaiser

gsolorio3
Registered: Dec 10 2010
Posts: 14
This form will most likely be created using Acrobat.
Merlin
Acrobat 9ExpertTeam
Registered: Mar 1 2006
Posts: 766
Quote:
Is there a way to do this? For example, if the user tries to print the form, they will not be able too until the user enters data in the boxes. And even highlight the boxes requiring the boxes to be completed? Is there such a thing, perhaps a script or some setup.
Hi,

Using the Select Object tool (black arrow) :
right-clic upon the field > Properties > General panel > Required (check box).
gkaiseril
Expert
Registered: Feb 23 2006
Posts: 4308
Note that the required property only applies when a form is submintted to a web page for processing. It is possible to use JavaScript to loop through the fields and check for the 'required' property and check if the field has been completed. There are a couple of issues you will need to deal with.



  • Check boxes and Radio boxes have a non-null value when one is not slected, "Off".


  • Combo boxes and Drop Down list can not have a null entry, it is a space.


  • Buttons can not be tested for the 'Required' property.

  • You will need to translate the names of fields with missing data to a meaningful message




George Kaiser