select distinct from multiple tables

[simanek]

Is there a way to select distinct entries from a common column across a whole bunch of tables? I have about 100 tables each with a common column and I want to select only the unique entries in that column. Any ideas of how to do this without bringing the database to its knees?

Thanks. Mike
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simanek@uiuc.edu
"It's a Swingline!"
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[tlbroadbent]

You could do a Union query. I'm not sure of the limitation on the number of tables you can include in one UNION query. If there is a limitation, you may need to create more than one query. By default, UNION queries select distinct values.

Select ColA From tbl1
Union
Select ColA From tbl2
Union
Select ColA From tbl3
Union
Select ColA From tbl4
Union
Select ColA From tbl5
Union
.
.
.
Terry Broadbent


"The greatest obstacle to discovery is not ignorance -- it is the illusion of knowledge." - Daniel J Boorstin