Identify linked controls

Note: Layout features are available in the Classic Forms Designer only. Layouts are not used in the Responsive Forms Designer.

​A Linked Control is a control that exists on more than one device layout. Any changes (formatting, settings) made to the control on one layout will affect all layouts containing that control.

A Linked Control is created whenever a control is copied from one layout to another layout that does not already contain a copy of that control. When a control is copied to a layout already containing a copy, it is created as a stand-alone copy. Settings changed on this copy will not affect other copies. A linked control occurs by default when:

• It is the first time a device layout is selected for a form. All controls are copied from the default layout to the selected device layout.
• Using the Controls In Use pane and adding a control that is not on the current layout.
• Using the Replace With Layout option in the Ribbon. All existing controls are deleted and all controls from the selected layout are copied to the current layout.

To identify linked controls

• Open the control settings dialog. An information message at the top of the status bar will display, This is a linked control. These settings will affect all layouts containing this control.

 OR

• When a control is selected on the design canvas, a link/chain icon will display in the center of the control.

To unlink a control

Linked Controls cannot be unlinked directly. To achieve the desired effect, create a second copy of the control on the same layout, and then delete the Linked Control.

Related information

Identify controls in use

Configure controls