If the replacement characters (Xs) overlap the fixed text on your AFP document, you need to first understand that if the Xs are running into the adjoining text label the actual field data could do the same. The width of the template characters shown in design mode is simply a representation of how wide the field data may be. Depending upon the length of the data mapped and the characters used, the actual space used might be more or less than that shown.
If you are using a fixed-pitch font, like Courier, all characters are the same width. That means any data that fills the entire field with the currently defined length will overlap that same text. Therefore you have to consider whether you defined the field length too long or placed the adjoining text label too close.
If you are using a proportional font, characters can have different widths. Within a typical proportional font, the characters W and M are usually the widest, where characters like i and l are the narrowest. The system shows Xs because that character is typically a little wider than average, but not excessively large. Ultimately, the mix of characters mapped into the field determines whether the data fits into the space you have provided.
Assuming you are reasonably sure the field length and space provided are acceptable, you can configure Studio to show the variable locations using the Documerge replacement character instead of the normal Xs.
To see the Documerge replacement characters instead of Xs, add this INI option to your FSISYS.INI or FSIUSER.INI file:
< Control >
TemplateUseReplaceChar = Yes
Then each location will show the Documerge replacement character you have assigned to that field. If you chose a thinner character, the template text of the field will not run into the subsequent label. Remember that the actual space consumed by the field is determined by the data you map into the field and the font you choose.
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