Updating a table with the hidden primary key

The APEX_ITEM API is a PL/SQL package that you can use to programmatically put items on the screen. The package also contains a function to put hidden items on the screen. Hidden items are items that are placed in a webpage but are not visible. However, they can contain a value. In this way, you can make each row in a report unique. We will make an updatable report which makes use of the APEX_ITEM API.

Getting ready

Make sure you have access to the table APP_EVENTS.

How to do it...

First, we will make a classic report based on the APP_EVENTS table.

1. In the Application Builder, click on the Create Page button.

2. Select Report.

3. Select Classic report.

4. Enter a name for the page and click on Next.

5. Select Do not use tabs and click on Next.

6. In the text area, enter the following query:

   select apex_item.hidden(1,id)||apex_item.text(2,event) appevent
   ,      apex_item.date_popup(3,rownum,event_date,'dd-mm-yyyy') event_date
   ,      apex_item.text(4,location) location
   ...