textbox validation with FORMAT

[nfo1212]

Hi,

I am just learning VB. I am trying to get this code to work:


Private Sub txtDateOff_LostFocus()
If txtDateOff.Text = Format(txtDateOff, "dd/mm/yy") Then
Exit Sub
Else
txtDateOff.Text = ""
MsgBox "Please enter Date in dd/mm/yy format. For example, 08/25/02."
End If
End Sub

As you can probably see I am trying to have the user enter a date in a textbox and then only allow it to "stick" (and be submitted to the database) if they get the dd/mm/yy format right. Only problem is I can't get it right: When I type in, say, 08/25/01 or anything else, I get the "Pleas enter date" msgbox. I might have the FORMAT syntax wrong. Thanks a bunch for your help.
Nick

[Nucleus]

Use the masked edit control, which are great for dates.

Alternatively, try something like (note use of validate event:

Private Sub Text1_Validate(Cancel As Boolean)
If IsDate(Text1) Then
    Text1.BackColor = &H80000005
    Text1 = FormatDateTime(Text1, vbShortDate)
Else
    Cancel = True
    Text1.BackColor = vbRed 'or Beachbum would recommend a msgbox right here
End If
End Sub

[Tygur]

I think you switched the months and days in this line:
If txtDateOff.Text = Format(txtDateOff, "dd/mm/yy") Then

The code is looking for a "dd/mm/yy" date. You're giving it a "mm/dd/yy" date (08/25/01).

[beachbum]

Hi
Ok a few things
1) Why not just use IsDate() to check if it is a valid date.
2) Masked edit boxes suck sorry Nucleus
3) Error msgs for wrong typing from users suck BIGtime. (damn u Nucleus spreading bad rumours ) Why not let them key date in 250802 or 25-08-02 or 25/08/02 or 25/8/2002 or whatever and work it out.
Regards
Stuart

[nfo1212]

Thanks all,

Tygur, you were exactly right. Pretty observant! The code works now.

Beachbum, I know what you're saying. I don't like the masked edit boxes either. Any advice on how I might do this simply with isdate ().

Nick

[Nucleus]

Originally posted by beachbum
Hi
Ok a few things
1) Why not just use IsDate() to check if it is a valid date.
2) Masked edit boxes suck sorry Nucleus
3) Error msgs for wrong typing from users suck BIGtime. (damn u Nucleus spreading bad rumours ) Why not let them key date in 250802 or 25-08-02 or 25/08/02 or 25/8/2002 or whatever and work it out.
Regards
Stuart

1) See my first reply
2) Skilled use of a masked edit box allows the user to enter any data they want, the only difference is the user has a graphical guide as to what is expected of them. Consequently I think you can easily make a case for either approach, sorry Beachbum .
3) Come on BeachBum fess up, you da king of Msgboxes. Also can you post some code showing how to convert 250802 or 25082 or say 8252 to a valid date?