How can I read <select> contents on the server?

[Christina]

I want to read a classic HTML Form using the ASP Request object on the
server. This is a common approach. But how can I read all the contents of a
listbox (the <select> tag)?


Best regards,
Christina

 

[Ray at]

When the form is posted, the only data that is passed from the <select> is
what is selected. Options:

Use client side script to select all the elements onsubmit. (not 100%
reliable)

If your select is generated by your ASP code, use the same logic to
regenerate the list again. If this is not an option, use a hidden input(s)
and have it contain the same data that is in the <select>.

Ray at work

 

[Aaron Bertrand - MVP]

You could put all the contents of the <select> in a hidden input type.
However, how are you building the <select> list? Isn't it static? If so,
you don't need to read it every time a user submits a form.

 

[Christina]

How do I select the elements on exit? And how do I read them on the server?

The form is submitted by the user after he/she has modified the contents of
the listbox (by adding items from another listbox)


Best ones,
Christina

 

[Ray at]

How do I select the elements on exit?

This I am not sure about. Try inquiring in a javascript group. I believe
you have to loop through all the options and mark them as selected.

And how do I read them on the server?

theVals = Request.Form("TheNameOfTheSelect")

The form is submitted by the user after he/she has modified the contents of
the listbox (by adding items from another listbox)

I see. Then, well, that at least tells you that the user's browser supports
javascript, so I'd go either do the "select all on submit" or possibly
better, add something to the same client-side function that is entering the
new values in the select that will also add the values to a hidden input.

Ray at work