Assigning semantic types to fields

You assign property semantic types to fields and standard fields in the same way as entity and link types. The possible semantic types are listed on the Property page in the Semantic Types area.

About this task

You may find it easiest to assign the semantic types to standard fields first. For some general information, see Setting up Semantic Types.

Procedure

To assign a semantic type to a field or standard field:
  1. Select Tools > Database Design > Semantic Types.
  2. Turn on the Show Fields check box in order to display fields in the Database area of the Semantic Types dialog. See below Showing and hiding assigned and unassigned items.
  3. On the Property page of the tree view, locate the semantic type.
    You cannot assign the same semantic type to more than one field in the same entity or link type. Similarly, you cannot assign the same semantic type to more than one standard field. If you try to assign a semantic type that you have already used, you will see the message:

    This semantic type has already been assigned. Do you want to create a custom semantic type derived from this semantic type?

    Click:
    • OK to create a custom semantic type based on the name of the selected type followed by a number, for example Transaction Date 1.
    • Cancel to cancel this assignment so that you can select a different semantic type or create your own one.
    Important: You should only create a custom semantic type if you are working in the database that contains the central Semantic Type Library for your organization. For important information on the dos and don'ts of creating custom semantic types, see Defining custom semantic types and Maintaining the semantic type library.