Re: which column type char,varchar2 is better for index?

"Mark D Powell" <Mark.Powell_at_eds.com> wrote in message news:2687bb95.0406110545.e66f62f_at_posting.google.com...
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I agree with Daniel on the use of varchar2 over char every time.
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Maybe almost, but not *quite* every time. I recall posting a suggestion about 8 years ago which was along the lines of 'always use varchar2 and never use char'.

Thomas Kyte was kind enough to point out that:

1. There could possibly be a scenario (7.3) where you wanted to set up a row with lots of null or small values, which you knew would shortly be filled to a defined length.
2. 'Always' and 'never' are absolute terms, and (I paraphrase), it always depends...

I have never forgotten that advice.

Regards,
Paul Received on Mon Jun 14 2004 - 14:44:59 CDT