Dynamics 365 Error: TypeError $ Is Not A Function

Hey guys, we've got a bug report here from rajyraman about an issue in the Discussion category, specifically related to Levelup for Dynamics CRM. Let's dive into the details and see what's going on. This article aims to break down the bug, its symptoms, and potential solutions in a way that's easy to understand and implement.

Understanding the Bug: An Unexpected Error in Dynamics 365/Power Apps

The core issue reported is an unexpected error manifesting in two primary ways within Dynamics 365/Power Apps. First, users encounter an error stating "TypeError: $ is not a function" when navigating to any record's form. This cryptic message indicates a problem with the JavaScript code, specifically the jQuery library, which often uses $ as a shortcut. Secondly, when accessing a custom record's form with Audit History enabled, an error message "[Error loading control]" appears, accompanied by the detailed error: "TypeError: window.$.getJSON is not a function." This suggests a deeper issue with how the application is handling asynchronous data retrieval, crucial for features like Audit History. This section will delve into the specifics of the bug, its symptoms, and the environments where it occurs, providing a comprehensive understanding for developers and administrators.

The error TypeError: $ is not a function typically means that the jQuery library, a common JavaScript library used for DOM manipulation and AJAX requests, is either not loaded or not loaded correctly. The $ symbol is a shorthand for jQuery, and if it's not recognized, many JavaScript functions that rely on jQuery will fail. This can happen due to various reasons, such as script loading order, conflicts with other libraries, or issues with the jQuery library itself. For instance, if a custom script tries to use jQuery before it has been fully loaded, this error can occur. Similarly, if another library has overwritten the $ variable, it can lead to the same problem. In the context of Dynamics 365/Power Apps, this might point to issues with how custom web resources or scripts are interacting with the platform's JavaScript framework. The error’s appearance on “any record’s form” suggests a widespread problem, potentially affecting the entire application’s functionality, rather than being isolated to specific entities or forms.

The second error, TypeError: window.$.getJSON is not a function, is a more specific manifestation of the jQuery issue. The $.getJSON function is a jQuery method used for making AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML) requests to fetch JSON data. Its failure indicates that the jQuery library is either not loaded or that the specific method getJSON is not available. This could be due to a corrupted or incomplete jQuery library, a version incompatibility, or a problem with the way jQuery is being accessed within the application’s scope. The fact that this error occurs when Audit History is enabled for a custom record’s form provides a crucial clue. Audit History functionality often relies on making AJAX calls to retrieve audit data, which would explain why $.getJSON is being used in this context. The error message explicitly points to the AuditAssociatedGridControl.C2337C4.js file, further narrowing down the location of the issue. This JavaScript file likely contains the code responsible for loading and displaying the audit history, and its reliance on $.getJSON makes it a prime suspect for investigation. The ability to access the contact table's audit history while encountering this error on custom records suggests that the problem might be specific to the configuration or implementation of audit history for custom entities.

These errors are critical because they directly impact the user experience and the functionality of Dynamics 365/Power Apps. The TypeError: $ is not a function error can prevent users from accessing or interacting with records, effectively halting their workflow. The TypeError: window.$.getJSON is not a function error specifically hinders the ability to view audit history, which is essential for tracking changes and maintaining data integrity. The error details provided, including the file names and line numbers, are invaluable for developers in diagnosing and resolving the issue. The additional context that the issue does not occur in InPrivate mode or with the plugin disabled further points to potential conflicts with browser extensions or cached data. By understanding the nature and context of these errors, administrators and developers can take targeted steps to identify the root cause and implement effective solutions.

Reproducing the Bug: Steps to Identify the Issue

To effectively address this bug, we need to understand how to reliably reproduce it. The bug report outlines a clear set of steps to reproduce the error, which is super helpful for troubleshooting. The first scenario involves simply navigating to any record's form, which triggers the "TypeError: $ is not a function" error. This widespread occurrence suggests a fundamental issue with the application's core JavaScript libraries. The second scenario is more specific, focusing on custom record forms with Audit History enabled, which leads to the "[Error loading control]" error and the detailed "TypeError: window.$.getJSON is not a function." message. This indicates a potential problem with the Audit History control's interaction with jQuery. This section will detail the steps to reproduce the bug and analyze the implications of these reproduction scenarios.

To reproduce the TypeError: $ is not a function error, the steps are straightforward: simply go to any record’s form within the Dynamics 365/Power Apps environment. This broad trigger suggests that the issue is not isolated to specific entities or forms but rather a more systemic problem affecting the entire application. The fact that the error occurs universally across records indicates a potential problem with a core JavaScript library or a conflict that affects the global scope. This makes it easier to reproduce and test potential fixes, as any record form can serve as a test case. The consistency of this error across all records also points to a higher likelihood of a fundamental configuration or deployment issue, rather than a bug specific to certain custom components or scripts. When encountering this error, the immediate focus should be on verifying the integrity and availability of the jQuery library, as well as identifying any potential conflicts with other scripts or libraries that might be interfering with its proper functioning.

The second reproduction scenario is more targeted and involves specific conditions: accessing a custom record's form with Audit History enabled. This leads to the error message [Error loading control] along with the detailed error TypeError: window.$.getJSON is not a function. This scenario provides valuable context for troubleshooting, as it highlights the interaction between the Audit History feature and the application's JavaScript runtime. The fact that the error involves $.getJSON suggests a problem with AJAX requests, which are commonly used to asynchronously fetch data for the audit history control. This error is particularly significant because Audit History is a crucial feature for tracking data changes and maintaining compliance. The ability to reproduce this error consistently by accessing a custom record form with Audit History enabled makes it possible to systematically test and validate potential solutions. Additionally, the contrast between the successful loading of Audit History for the contact table and the failure for custom records points to a potential configuration issue or a discrepancy in how Audit History is implemented or enabled for custom entities. This distinction provides a valuable clue for developers to focus their investigation on the specific implementation of Audit History for custom records.

These reproduction steps are crucial for isolating and resolving the bug. The ability to consistently reproduce the errors allows developers to systematically test hypotheses and validate fixes. The two distinct scenarios, one affecting all record forms and the other specific to Audit History on custom records, suggest that there may be multiple underlying issues at play. By carefully following these steps, developers can pinpoint the exact conditions under which the errors occur, gather more detailed information, and develop effective solutions. Furthermore, the act of reproducing the bug often provides additional insights and clues that can aid in the debugging process. For instance, noticing patterns or variations in the error's behavior under different conditions can help narrow down the potential causes and guide the troubleshooting efforts.

Expected Behavior: Audit History and Smooth Record Access

So, what should be happening? The expected behavior is pretty straightforward: users should be able to access any record form without encountering errors, and when Audit History is enabled, it should load seamlessly. No error pop-ups, no broken controls – just smooth access to data and historical records. This section elaborates on the desired functionality and how the observed errors deviate from this expectation, highlighting the user impact and the importance of resolving the bug.

Ideally, when a user navigates to any record form in Dynamics 365/Power Apps, the form should load without any errors. This means that all the necessary JavaScript libraries, including jQuery, should be loaded and initialized correctly. The user should be able to interact with the form elements, such as fields, buttons, and controls, without encountering any unexpected behavior or error messages. The basic functionality of the application should be seamless and intuitive, allowing users to focus on their tasks without being interrupted by technical issues. This expectation is fundamental to the user experience, as it ensures that the application is reliable and accessible. When the TypeError: $ is not a function error occurs, it directly violates this expectation, preventing users from accessing and interacting with records. This not only disrupts their workflow but also erodes their confidence in the application’s stability. Therefore, the primary goal is to restore the expected behavior of smooth and error-free record access, ensuring that users can perform their tasks efficiently and effectively.

Similarly, when Audit History is enabled for a record, it should load and display the audit data without any errors. The Audit History feature is crucial for tracking changes to records, providing insights into who made what modifications and when. This functionality is essential for maintaining data integrity, compliance, and accountability. Users should be able to view the audit history of a record without encountering the [Error loading control] message or the underlying TypeError: window.$.getJSON is not a function error. The expected behavior is that the Audit History control should load the data asynchronously, using AJAX requests, and display it in a user-friendly format. This requires that the jQuery library and its associated methods, such as $.getJSON, are functioning correctly. The failure of Audit History to load not only prevents users from accessing historical data but also raises concerns about the reliability of the application’s auditing capabilities. Therefore, resolving the Audit History error is critical for ensuring that users can effectively track and manage data changes, maintaining the integrity and compliance of their Dynamics 365/Power Apps environment.

In essence, the expected behavior is a seamless and error-free experience for users interacting with record forms and Audit History. Any deviation from this expectation, such as the encountered errors, needs to be addressed promptly to maintain user satisfaction and the overall reliability of the application. The screenshots provided in the bug report clearly illustrate the discrepancy between the expected behavior and the actual experience, highlighting the impact of the errors on the user interface and functionality. By focusing on restoring the expected behavior, developers and administrators can ensure that Dynamics 365/Power Apps remains a robust and dependable platform for managing business data and processes. Achieving this requires a thorough investigation of the root causes of the errors and the implementation of effective solutions to prevent their recurrence.

Screenshots: A Visual Representation of the Bug

Visual aids are always helpful, right? The bug report includes screenshots that clearly show the error messages. These screenshots provide a tangible view of the problem, making it easier to understand the user's experience and the impact of the bug. This section will analyze the screenshots, highlighting the key visual elements and their implications for troubleshooting and resolution.

The first screenshot displays the error message "An unexpected error occurred - TypeError: $ is not a function". This screenshot is particularly impactful because it captures the generic nature of the error, indicating a fundamental problem with the JavaScript environment. The message is displayed prominently, making it clear to the user that something is seriously wrong. The user interface elements surrounding the error message suggest that the error occurs within the core Dynamics 365/Power Apps framework, rather than within a specific custom component or script. This points to a potential issue with the loading or initialization of the jQuery library, which is essential for many of the application’s functionalities. The visual representation of this error highlights the severity of the problem, as it likely affects a wide range of features and user interactions. The fact that this error is displayed as a pop-up or alert further emphasizes its disruptive nature, as it interrupts the user’s workflow and requires immediate attention. Analyzing this screenshot, developers can infer that the focus should be on verifying the integrity and availability of the jQuery library, as well as identifying any potential conflicts with other scripts or libraries that might be interfering with its proper functioning. The visual evidence provided by this screenshot is invaluable for guiding the troubleshooting process and prioritizing the resolution efforts.

The second screenshot shows the error message ***"[Error loading control]. full details: TypeError: window.$.getJSON is not a function"***, along with a detailed stack trace. This screenshot is more specific, as it indicates an issue with a particular control within the application. The error message suggests that the problem is related to loading a control, and the detailed error further clarifies that the `$.getJSONfunction is not available. This points to a potential issue with AJAX requests, which are commonly used to asynchronously fetch data for dynamic controls. The stack trace provides valuable information about the sequence of function calls that led to the error, allowing developers to pinpoint the exact location in the code where the error occurred. In this case, the stack trace includes references toAuditControl.setIsRefreshEnabledEntityInWebClientandAuditControl.init, suggesting that the error is related to the Audit History control. The fact that the error involves window.$.getJSON` further reinforces the connection to jQuery and AJAX requests. This screenshot is particularly helpful for developers because it provides a precise and detailed view of the error, allowing them to focus their investigation on the specific control and the associated code. By analyzing the stack trace and the error messages, developers can gain a deeper understanding of the underlying issue and develop targeted solutions to address it.

Together, these screenshots provide a comprehensive visual representation of the bug, highlighting both the generic JavaScript error and the specific issue with the Audit History control. The visual evidence provided by these screenshots is crucial for effective communication and collaboration among developers, administrators, and users. By sharing these screenshots, the reporter can clearly convey the nature and impact of the bug, ensuring that the development team has a clear understanding of the problem. The screenshots also serve as a valuable reference point during the troubleshooting and resolution process, allowing developers to track progress and verify that the fixes are effective. In essence, the screenshots are a powerful tool for visualizing and understanding the bug, facilitating a more efficient and effective resolution.

Additional Context: InPrivate Mode and Plugin Interference

Here's a crucial clue: the user mentions that the issue doesn't occur in InPrivate mode or when the plugin is disabled. This bit of additional context is super valuable because it suggests the problem might be related to browser extensions or cached data. It points us away from a core Dynamics 365/Power Apps bug and more towards a local environment issue. This section will delve into the implications of this additional context, exploring potential causes and troubleshooting strategies.

The fact that the issue does not occur in InPrivate mode strongly suggests that the problem is related to browser extensions or cached data. InPrivate mode disables browser extensions and does not use cached data, providing a clean environment for testing. If the error disappears in InPrivate mode, it indicates that one or more browser extensions are likely interfering with the normal functioning of Dynamics 365/Power Apps. This interference could be due to JavaScript conflicts, incorrect script loading order, or other compatibility issues between the extensions and the application. Identifying the specific extension causing the problem can be challenging but is crucial for resolving the bug. A systematic approach involves disabling extensions one by one and testing to see if the error disappears. Once the problematic extension is identified, it can be either disabled permanently or reconfigured to avoid conflicts. The information about InPrivate mode is particularly valuable because it narrows down the potential causes of the error and provides a clear path for troubleshooting. By focusing on browser extensions, developers and administrators can efficiently identify and address the root cause of the issue.

Similarly, the fact that disabling the plugin resolves the issue further supports the hypothesis that browser extensions are the culprit. Plugins, often used interchangeably with browser extensions, can inject JavaScript code into web pages, modify their behavior, and interact with the DOM (Document Object Model). While some plugins enhance functionality, others can inadvertently introduce conflicts and errors. When a plugin is disabled and the error disappears, it is a strong indication that the plugin is the source of the problem. This aligns with the InPrivate mode observation, as InPrivate mode also prevents plugins from running. The specific nature of the plugin interfering with Dynamics 365/Power Apps can vary, but common issues include conflicting JavaScript libraries, incorrect script execution order, and modifications to the DOM that break the application’s expected behavior. To resolve this, it is essential to identify the problematic plugin and either disable it or update it to a version that is compatible with Dynamics 365/Power Apps. In some cases, the plugin developer may need to release a patch to address the compatibility issue. The combination of the InPrivate mode and plugin disabling information provides a strong foundation for troubleshooting, allowing developers to focus their efforts on the browser environment rather than the application’s core code.

This additional context is invaluable for effective debugging and problem-solving. It highlights the importance of considering the user’s environment and the potential impact of browser extensions and cached data on the behavior of web applications. By recognizing that the issue is likely external to Dynamics 365/Power Apps, developers can avoid wasting time on internal code analysis and instead focus on the user’s browser configuration. The information also underscores the need for users to be aware of the potential impact of browser extensions and to manage them carefully. In practice, this might involve regularly reviewing installed extensions, disabling unnecessary ones, and keeping extensions up to date. Furthermore, the additional context provides a clear set of troubleshooting steps: test in InPrivate mode, disable plugins one by one, and identify the problematic extension. By following these steps, administrators and users can efficiently diagnose and resolve the issue, restoring the expected functionality of Dynamics 365/Power Apps. In summary, this additional context transforms the bug report from a vague error message into a well-defined problem with a clear path to resolution.

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