I have a field as number datatype to enter the mobile numbers of pensioners. By oversight wildcard like %, $, # are being entered in this field

SQL> CREATE TABLE t(A NUMBER);

Table created.

SQL>
SQL> INSERT INTO t SELECT '%' FROM dual;
INSERT INTO t SELECT '%' FROM dual
                     *
ERROR at line 1:
ORA-01722: invalid number


SQL> INSERT INTO t SELECT '$' FROM dual;
INSERT INTO t SELECT '$' FROM dual
                     *
ERROR at line 1:
ORA-01722: invalid number


SQL> INSERT INTO t SELECT '#' FROM dual;
INSERT INTO t SELECT '#' FROM dual
                     *
ERROR at line 1:
ORA-01722: invalid number


SQL>

Is there any reason why the form crashes in windows 7 64 bit OS while all other forms except this form is opening. This form happens to be the main form with all functions / procedures written.

01) Can i use this for a varchar data type also. I was using it only for number datatype

02) It also says oracle leaves a space in the front to accommodate + or - . Then should i have to write 9999999999 (10 times 9) to accommodate 10 digit mobile no. Mobile no field size is kept as 10

There are numerous reasons that could cause this, but we need to know your Forms Version in order to start offering suggested fixes. Some versions of Oracle Forms are not compatible with Windows 7 as well as 64-bit OSes.

But now when i try to open the same form in windows to put format mask instead of the function it crashes. The form is not opening and i will not be able to make any more changes unless i revert back to the original form without the isnumeric function.

Is there any reason why the form crashes in windows 7 64 bit OS while all other forms except this form is opening.

This format mask does not allow if numbers less than 10 digits are entered.