FPRINT: Converting Fields to Alphanumeric Format

The FPRINT function converts any type of field except for a text field to its alphanumeric equivalent for display. The alphanumeric representation will include any display options that are specified in the format of the original field.

Syntax: How to Convert Fields Using FPRINT

FPRINT(in_value, 'usageformat', output)

where:

in_value

Any format except TX

Is the value to be converted.

usageformat

Alphanumeric

Is the usage format of the value to be converted, including display options. The format must be enclosed in single quotation marks.

output

Alphanumeric

The output format must be long enough to hold the converted number itself, with a sign and decimal point, plus any additional characters generated by display options, such as commas, a currency symbol, or a percent sign.

For example, D12.2 format is converted to A14 because it outputs two decimal digits, a decimal point, a possible minus sign, up to eight integer digits, and two commas. If the output format is not large enough, excess right-hand characters may be truncated.

Reference: Usage Notes for the FPRINT Function

The output of FPRINT for numeric values is right-justified within the area required for the maximum number of characters corresponding to the supplied format. This ensures that all possible values are aligned vertically along the decimal point or units digit.

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Example: Converting a Numeric Field to Alphanumeric Format

FPRINT converts CURR_SAL (format D12.2)M to a column with format A15:

FPRINT(CURR_SAL, 'D12.2M', 'A15')