Mantra: Bind folders & files to tables & records.
Tagline: Files close to data.
wob_Boxes provides a managed, Dropbox-like repository for files, without storing them in the database as BLOBs. It offers a structured hierarchy for file storage at the global, table, and individual record levels, keeping your database lean and efficient while providing a familiar file management interface for users.
- Structured File Repository: A root folder on the server is designated for all file storage.
wob_Boxesthen creates a structured hierarchy for global files, table-specific files, and individual record-specific files. - Client-Server Interface: Generic widgets are provided for easy placement on any form. These widgets open a Finder-like interface, allowing users to drag & drop files, view, organize, and recover files stored in their dedicated boxes.
- Programmatic Access: Low-level methods enable server-side automation. You can programmatically retrieve files (
Get file from Box), save files (Save file to Box), and use them for automated tasks like attaching files to outgoing emails. - Technical Foundation: The entire system is built on robust, standard POSIX paths and utilizes 4D's built-in
FileandFolderclasses for reliable cross-platform operation. - Widget Integration: The resizable widget displays the file count of the related folder. On click, it opens a form in a separate process, providing a bounded view of this folder. The widget's file count is automatically updated when the contents of the opened
ogBoxare modified. - Key Benefits:
- Database Efficiency: Keeps user files out of the database, maintaining optimal performance and size.
- Ease of Use: Provides a familiar, intuitive file browser experience anywhere in your application.
- Flexibility: Offers structured storage at the global, table, and individual record levels.
- Powerful Automation: Supports both user interaction and fully programmed file management.
- Multi-Language Support: Fully localized in English (EN), French (FR), Spanish (ES), and German (DE).
- 4D v21 or higher (Project mode recommended).
- wok_Krolific – Licensing component (mandatory dependency).
- wox_Xlibrary – Core utilities (mandatory dependency).
- woc_Colours – Color management engine (mandatory dependency).
- The SVG with Classes must be available in your project.
Starting with 4D v21, the recommended way to install wob_Boxes (and any ogTools component) is through the Dependencies Manager using the GitHub repository:
- In your 4D project, open the Dependencies Manager (
Project > Dependencies). - Click the
+button and select Add a dependency from a Git URL. - Enter the following Git URL:
protee/wob_Boxes - Choose the desired version (e.g.,
main,latest, or a specific release tag). - Confirm the installation – the component will be automatically fetched from GitHub, placed in the
Componentsfolder, and linked to your project.
Note: For team development, commit the dependency configuration file (
dependencies.json) to your source control so all team members automatically fetch the same version from GitHub.
wob_Boxes is the file repository pillar of the comprehensive ogTools suite – an integrated development ecosystem for 4D. Other key components include:
| Icon | Component | Description |
|---|---|---|
 |
wok_Krolific | License manager. |
 |
wox_Xlibrary | Core utilities for everyday development tasks. |
 |
woc_Colours | Advanced, indexed color management engine. |
wob_Boxes is a commercial component and is part of the paid ogTools suite. A valid license is required for use. For licensing options and trial requests, please contact the sales team directly.
wob_Boxes supports the following languages out‑of‑the‑box:
- 🇺🇸 English (EN), 🇫🇷 French (FR), 🇪🇸 Spanish (ES), 🇩🇪 German (DE)
- More on demand
Localization affects error messages, UI prompts, and built‑in pane texts.
- Official Website: https://www.protee.org
- Documentation: Full documentation and HDI (Host Database Interface) demos are included with your purchase.
For direct inquiries:
- Email: og@protee.org
- Phone: +33 6 3718 5941
wob_Boxes and the ogToolsSuite are developed by Protée sarl, a company with over 30 years of expertise in 4D development. Led by Olivier Grimbert, the team focuses on delivering high‑quality, production‑grade tools that enhance developer productivity and application reliability.