Choosing a primary key

[sbayeta]

Hi,

I have a table with a field called 'lote' containing unique values like

TM07082004
TT07082004
TN07082004
TM08082004
TT08082004

I'd like to know whether I should use this field as primary key for my table, or create an autonumeric field and use that instead.

What are the drawbacks/advantages of each approach ?

Thanks a lot.

Note that the existing 'lote' field can't be eliminated.

 

[TonyGroves]

If the existing field is the record's unique identifier, then I would use that. It keeps things simple, and I can't imagine any situation where an extra field would be of any benefit.

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ALTER world DROP injustice, ADD peace;

 

[ericbrunson]

Philosophically, I disagree with with primary keys holding any significance unless you are *absolutely* certain, beyond the shadow of a doubt that the primary key value will never ever ever ever change.

About the only time I use an "intellignent key" is for state abbreviations, I don't think they're changing any time soon.