I think I found the culprit for the non-working PopUp issue. But the solution is WAY above my skill level.
Not a really critical issue for me, but I suspect others may encounter this down the line, where it might be a somewhat important issue.
Briefly, Extracted a few months of data, created a new pared down DB, one simple form, .Initialize with Global variable. Same result. Tested multiple times. Also closed and reopened Pan in the process. And of course, saved each time. And after first use, PopUp works just fine from then on.
And I’m hoping someone else can re-create and confirm this. Or maybe it’s simply my error. Whatever.
In summary, here is what appears to me, is the underlying issue. The Date field is set correctly, but when the DB is initialized, the Date field is missing its name, datatype (resets to Choices!!) and output pattern. As mentioned, tested and repeatable.
Note: Global variable value and variable formula on form display properly on opening. But the PopUp doesn’t. Duh!!
Screenshot below, and PopUp snippet and .Initialize. Is it me…or some phantom gremlin at work??
Global myMonth
//Field Date
myMonth = datepattern(Date, "Month YYYY")
OpenForm "Form_X"
showvariables myMonth
If myMonth = “June 2026”
select exportcell(«Date») match “06/*/26”
endif
showvariables myMonth