Represent multiple elements with a single repository item
There are times when it may be helpful to have a single repository item represent multiple UI elements. Examples include elements such as radio buttons and checkboxes. This feature is commonly used with code modules.
In this chapter
Screencast
The screencast “Represent multiple elements with a single repository item” walks you through information found in this chapter:
Necessary context
The concept covered in this chapter is often used with code modules, which is an expert topic. In addition, you will find the example easier to understand if you are familiar with the RanoreXPath syntax and the Ranorex Spy tool. Use the links below to learn more about these advanced topics.
Further reading
Code modules are introduced in > Ranorex Studio expert > ⇢ Code modules.
The RanoreXPath syntax is described in > Ranorex Studio advanced > ⇢ RanoreXPath.
Learn about the Ranorex Spy tool in > Ranorex Studio advanced > ⇢ Ranorex Spy.
Example definition
In the following example, one repository item represents two radio buttons. These radio buttons appear within the gender selection region of the database in the demo application.
Gender selection radion buttons in demo application
Track the repository item
The procedure for creating a repository item to represent multiple elements is the same as for a regular repository item. Refer to the instructions below:
Open Ranorex Spy
Start the demo application and click on the Test database register tab
Track one of the gender selection radio buttons
Tracking of a radio button in demo application
Tracked and identified female radio button UI element in the demo application
Unique RanoreXPath specification for the female radio button in Ranorex Spy
UI element browser tree displaying the defined path for the female radio button in Ranorex Spy
Path editor for the female radio button in Ranorex Spy
Generalize the RanoreXPath specification
Follow the steps below to generalize the RanoreXPath specification so that it includes the second gender selection radio button of the demo application.
Change the RanoreXPath specification as shown here
Generalization of RanoreXPath specification
Initial RanoreXPath specification that includes only the female radio button
Modified, generalized RanoreXPath specification that includes both radio buttons
Multiple repository items detection
Generalizing the RanoreXPath specification leads to the simultaneous tracking of both gender selection radio buttons in the demo application. This can be seen in Ranorex Spy.
Multiple repository item tracking
Positive match of two tracked radio buttons
Found elements information in Ranorex Spy
Ranorex Spy displays the match result in the lower left corner of the working environment
Add the tracked item to the repository
Finally, add the matched items to the repository.
Adding matched item to repository
Select one of the matched repository items, open the context menu and click Add to repository
Name the generalized repository item
Like all repository items, the generalized repository item can be renamed to be more meaningful.
Renaming the generalized repository item
Select the repository item representing multiple UI elements.
Open the context menu to change the repository item name.