Creating custom fields in Acumatica using selectors is a powerful way to enhance functionality and streamline workflows. However, it’s not uncommon to encounter errors when implementing selector attributes, especially when working with the Customization Project Editor. In this article, we’ll explore a common issue developers face and the steps to resolve it effectively.

The Problem: Selector Attribute Missing

While adding a custom field to store a vendor on the Cases screen, an error occurred after publishing the customization:

Cannot create ctl00_phG_tab_t2_CstPXSelector122 control. The PXSelector attribute is missing for the UsrInst_InstallVendor field. Make sure the names of the data views specified for controls in the ASPX file match the names of the data views defined in the corresponding graph.

This error typically arises when the PXSelector attribute is improperly configured or placed in the wrong location.

Root Causes and Solutions

1. Underscores in Field Names

Field names containing underscores (e.g., UsrInst_InstallVendor) can cause issues with SQL statements and control generation in Acumatica.

Solution: Rename fields to remove underscores. For example:

public virtual string UsrInstInstallVendor { get; set; } 

public abstract class usrInstInstallVendor : PX.Data.BQL.BqlString.Field<usrInstInstallVendor> { } 

2. Correct Placement of PXSelector
Adding the PXSelector attribute directly through the Data Access section of the Customization Project Editor can lead to incomplete or incorrect configurations.

Solution: Use a cache extension to define the selector programmatically. Here's an example of a correctly implemented selector:

3. Understanding Cache Extensions
If you’re new to Acumatica customizations, it’s essential to understand where and how to extend the cache for adding custom fields and attributes like PXSelector.

Pro Tip: Review example projects or customization packages to familiarize yourself with the correct placement and structure of customizations.

Key Takeaways

1. Avoid Common Pitfalls: Ensure field names are clean and follow best practices to avoid runtime errors.
2. Define Selectors Programmatically: Use cache extensions for complex attributes like PXSelector.
3. Test and Iterate: Always test customizations after publishing to catch errors and refine your implementation.

Final Thoughts

Adding a selector attribute might seem challenging at first, but with careful attention to detail and a solid understanding of Acumatica’s customization framework, it becomes a straightforward task. Use the tips and solutions shared in this article to avoid common mistakes and deliver robust customizations.

Happy coding!