Set subsequent fields as "read only" to take data from first occurrence?

[keithm19389352]

Hoping this can be easily done without the need for scripts.

I'm working on creating a proposal form. There are a few areas where I would like the first instance of a field to be editable but the rest would be locked so that they are even taken out of the tab order.

Example: On the front page I have a field for the company name. This field is repeated across the several pages of the proposal. Each field has the same name. As a result any data entered into any one of them is distributed to all of them.

Ideal Solution: Front page field is editable and is where the data is entered. All subsequent fields are set as "read only" and take their data from the "master" field" As a result, someone can't make a change to that form on, for example, the third page and have that error replicate out across the document.

Is this possible?

I'm using Acrobat Pro DC on Windows 7 pro.

Thanks.

[try67 · Accepted solution]

You have to use a script to do it, but it's a very simple one.

If the "master" field is called "Text1" then enter this code as the custom calculation script for all other fields that need to have its value:

event.value = this.getField("Text1").value;

[keithm19389352]

Thanks for the quick feedback.

Where would I enter this script? I'm assuming in the Properties dialog box but not sure which tab.

Thanks!

[try67]

Properties - Calculation - Custom calculation script (the third option).

[keithm19389352]

Fantastic! Thanks!

[George_Johnson]

That script is likely sufficient in the majority of cases, but for all cases simply change it to:

event.value = this.getField("Text1").valueAsString;

[hengwen]

I have the same situation with a twist. My 6-page form has fields for a patient's name and the date on page 1.

I used the option to "copy across pages" for both fields. All good...enter the name & date on pages 1 and they show up on pages 2-6.

However, the name and date fields on pages 2-6 are still editable. In fact, if you edit the field (change the name or date) on page 6, it changes on pages 1-5 to the same entry.

I tried using the script above in the fields on pages 2-6, but the results are exactly the same as what I've described above. Actually, I entered the script on one page and it showed up on all pages in that field.

Will this only work if I create brand new name/date fields on pages 2-6?

[George_Johnson]

You should change the field names for the fields on pages 2-6 so they don't match the ones on page 1. Also, set any fields that have a calculation script to read-only.