2.64.2 Function Argument Data Types

Arguments to SMDL functions can take either a scalar value of a given data type or a set of values. Every argument that can take a set of values can also take a scalar of the same data type instead. That scalar is treated as a set of one item.

In addition, Integers can be used for arguments that only take Decimal and/or Float : The Integer is autocast to the appropriate type. Decimal is used if the argument supports Decimal or Float is used if the argument only supports Float. Similarly, Decimal can be used for arguments that only take Float: The Decimal is autocast to Float ; however, a warning is generated about potential loss of precision.

Arguments to SMDL functions can have the following data types: Integer, Decimal, Float, Boolean, String, DateTime, Time, EntityKey, and Language.Many of these functions have an argument that can have multiple data types. In the function descriptions that follow in sections 2.64.3 through section 2.64.4, the argument data types are described in the Type column of the table specifying the function. The following collections of multiple data types are specified: Numeric, Eq, Sort, and Any.These collections of data types are described in sections 2.64.2.1 through section 2.64.2.4.Many of the SMDL functions can have a return value with multiple data types. In this case, an asterisk appears in the Type column and the full specification of the return value Type appears in the Specification column.