Access to system tables from Addin

[Bhupinder]

Hi

can anyone tell me the recomended way for looking at data in the system tables when acting thorugh an Addin?

Options are I guess to create my own ODBC link to the EAP file, and open it.  

(for instance the connector Types or the Diagram types table.)

Have i missed something in the AI that could provide these?

Thanks in advance

[barny451]

I'm not sure why you'd want to; the diagrams and connectors are all accessible through the automation interface, and this interface is a) documented and b) won't change (much) as EA develops.

[Bhupinder]

I know I can get all the connector types used in the current diagram through the AI, however is it possible for me to get a list of all the VALID connector types that MAYBE used in a diagram?  (Likewise with diagram types and their associated VALID element types.)  

I would also like to know if it possible to get hold of the valid element types that can normally be placed on a particular diagram type.

The reason for me asking is I am trying to write some useful addins using Delphi 7.  I guess it is fair to say as EA and UML develop, there will be new diagram, connector and element types added.

While I am typing, is it possible to add new elements types to EA?   (ie, a new type of note or other non standard diagram element withs its own visual appearance.)  I realise I can extend the UML language, but my goal is to add extensions to EA.

Thanks in advance for any help.

[barny451]

If you RTM:

EA Help
 Automation and Scripting
   The Automation Interface
     Reference
       Repository
         Reference

you'll find that the AI lets you access the reference lists you mention, so you can future-proof your app to some extent.  Also, search for GetReferenceList()

Stereotypes are the mechanism in UML for making extensions, and you can use them in EA.  Most obvious limitation I have seen (in 3.6 anyway) is that only one stereotype can be applied to an element.

[Bhupinder]

Thank you

I had missed that!