Meta-SQL

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'Meta-SQL' Use (with reference to PeopleSoft)

Meta-SQL expands to platform-specific SQL substrings, causes another function to be called, or substitutes a value. Meta-SQL constructs are used in functions that pass SQL strings, such as the following:

SQLExec.
Scroll buffer functions (ScrollSelect and its relatives).
PeopleSoft Application Designer dynamic and SQL views.
Some Rowset class methods (Select, SelectNew, Fill, and so on.).
The SQL class.
PeopleSoft Application Engine programs.
Some Record class methods (Insert, Update, and so on.).
- COBOL functions.

[edit] Meta-SQL Element

Types There are three types of meta-SQL elements:

Construct

Constructs are a direct substitution of a value, and help to build or modify a SQL statement. Examples include %Bind, %InsertSelect, and %List.

Function

Functions perform actions or cause another function to be called. Examples include %ClearCursor, %Execute, and %ExecuteEdits.

Meta-variable.

Meta-variables enable substitution of text within SQL statements. Examples incldue %AsOfDate, %Comma, and %JobInstance.

Meta-SQL Placement ConsiderationsNot all meta-SQL can be used by all programs. Some meta-SQL can be used only in Application Engine programs. Other meta-SQL can only be used as part of a SQL statement in a SQL or dynamic view. The following table lists available meta-SQL elements and where each element can be used.

If a meta-SQL construct, function, or meta-variable is supported in PeopleCode, it is supported in all types of PeopleCode programs; that is, in Application Engine PeopleCode programs (actions), component interface PeopleCode programs, and so on.

Note. Even if a meta-SQL element is used in PeopelCode, you cannot use meta-SQL like a built-in function. You can use meta-SQL in the SQLExec function, the Select method, the Fill method, and so on. Note. Meta-SQL is not available in SQR