DSXchange

Hi,

I am writing a custom Server Routine to read out of a hash file. The only problem is that the key is a number. I have tried:
That returns data sorted alphabetically (1, 10, 2, 3, etc).

I have done searches on previous topics and found nothing like this (lots on sorting, but none for numeric keys). Ideally, I would like to avoid having to use a separate job with a sort stage to a sequential file (which is the only way I know) as this is a transform routine to be reused.

Thanks,

Chris.

Your primary key column must be showing as a left justified field in the hash file dictionary. Override this format using the FMT keyword when you execute the select. You cannot use a BASIC select, you must switch to an EXECUTE or PERFORM.

If you want to see a good online help manual, check out:

http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/mbtexts/31.html

In fact, there's a wealth of information here for anyone who wants to dive into Universe BASIC full time.

Hi Kenneth,

Thanks for your reply. It compiled alright, but when I tested it, I got the following error: Also, can I select into a numbered select list in an EXECUTE?

Thanks,

Chris.

It would only help to have your exact command.

I'm guessing you've got single quotes all over the place and that's wrong.

Try:
Is it imperative that you select to a list? If so, just add the appropriate keywords.

Please visit here, as it has all of the answers:

http://hometown.aol.com/mbtpublish/1.html

Hi Kenneth,

I am looking at the web pages you posted the address of now. But so you know, I did actually have it exactly as you put it in (with no quotes - apart from those you specify). It just seems to parse it that way.

I will write back if I still can't do it.

Thanks,

Chris.

Hi,

I am still having no luck. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Chris.

Got it!

I assumed that the 'yourhashfile' part of your code refered to a file variable. I have found that it refered to the actual name (a mistake on my part - but that was how it worked in the select without the execute). I had an OPEN statement above and assumed that this operated on the open hashfile referenced by the LOG file var.

Thanks for your help.

Regards,

Chris.

If you want the SSELECT filevariable statement to perform a numeric sort of the keys, change the definition of @ID in the file dictionary so that it is right-justified rather than left justified. For example: