How do I create a model from scratch (no file) ?

[gtsoftware]

I am trying to use the automation interface on the evaluation version of EA 6.0.781 (we have 3 licences in the pipeline   )

In particular I want to create a VB application to fire up EA, create a brand new model and populate a class diagram.

I've looked at the example code (though I couldn't find eatest.eap), looked through the help files and searched this forum. It seems to me that EA requires a call to OpenFile (or OpenFile2) before it will play. There doesn't seem to be a way to build a model from scratch.

I guess I will have to pass an empty file (like base.eap) in to OpenFile and build from there.

Is there a way to build a model without having a file?

Colin

[«Midnight»]

Hi Colin,

I had the same problem myself during evaluation. Bottom line is that you have to supply a file. [If you are using a repository back end you will have to supply an existing schema, populated from a model via the Transfer function.]

This next holds true through build 781 inclusive; see below for a note on later builds.

You can programmatically copy from an empty reference model, which you will want to create separately. This can be stored in some kind of default location for automation purposes only. Not the most elegant conceptual solution, but it works and looks fine to the user.

Please note that as of version 6.1 build 785 - just released a few days ago - there is a different process for creating a new model via the user interface. Now you just point to the desired location (which does not have to exist) and EA does the homework. It also allows you to select which portions of a 'stock' model you want to include, if any.

I have not looked at the documentation or tried programming with the new process, but intend to soon - a client has an immediate need. We should let each other know if we learn anything.

David

[gtsoftware]

Thanks for the pointer, I'll have to see if it helps. In the meantime I'm using an existing model which is getting me moving along. I'll certainly post any break through.

Cheers,
Colin

[«Midnight»]

One of the other threads mentioned that EA uses a default model (good ole EABase.eap by default) for the version 6.1 method of creating a new model. You can apparently change the contents to customize the 'starter' components.

If you want to look it up, the thread was suggesting using EABase_Jet4.0 as a possible default.

In any case it might be possible to somehow grab or manipulate this information by automation.

Of course, I have not tried it yet. Still busy fighting some unrelated fires.