I have two tables (TA and TB) that are related logically by one text field TA.ref_field. I created a Java class for each table and would like to setup a property on my class for TA that points to an instance of my java class for TB based on tb.id = substr(ta.ref_field, 1,2) ... is this possible?

I've read about formulas and seems this may be the option but I don't really understand how to use them...any suggestions?

Thanks

Yes, formulae are the way to go. Set up your association in the normal way, and use "formula="(substr(ref_field, 1, 2))" instead of "column="...". This won't work if there are two ref_fields in the result set (e.g. if you've got a join on the ref_field column), but if ref_field only occurs once then it'll do what you want.

Thanks this was very helpful. My association now works.

Then you'll have to click the "yes" link on my helpful post!