Padding on extra characters.

[crzycooter]

I need to update data in a column by adding on a variable number of characters. The number of characters that I have to add on is dependent upon how many characters are already there. The data in this column varies between 5-7 characters and I need to get each record in that column to 12 characters (all zeros to the left of what's already there). I was planning on doing this by using the LPAD function.

Is there an easy way to do this for the entire column, not just one record at a time? Thanks in advance. I'll buy you a beer. erick@cmoremedical.com

http://www.cmoremedical.com

 

[DBAwhosaysNIE]

update <table_name>
set <column_name>=
concat(
substr('000000000000',1,12-length(<column_name>)),
<column_name>
)
/

I prefer Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout from North Coast Brewing...

 

[crzycooter]

Genius. It works. You've made an excellent selection of brew as well. Thanks again. erick@cmoremedical.com

http://www.cmoremedical.com