>>
>> >>>I have a system where new records are being added to tables
>> >>>and receive sequential ID numbers which are the primary
>> >>>keys. Is there a difference between using numeric and
>> >>>integer types for these fields?
>> >>
>> >>Consider using a character type for your system generated key? I used a system generated key in some tables that is C(4) and stored like
>(0001, 0002, 0003).
>> >
>> >
>> >which works faster w/ seeks, char, numeric or integer? i've read about studies on this but can't remember...
>>
>> Integer. Reason - Takes up only 4 bytes so that index files are smaller. Also, I believe I heard that the engine is optimized for
>Integer keys (don't hold to
>>
>> -Doug-
>
>To be on the safe side, I would go for a character key, be it only
>because you might want to concatenate the key in a composite secundary
>key, in which case, if you take an integer, you would loose the
>advantage of optimization.
>
>My 2 BEF.
>
>Regards,
>
>Marc

U got it. That's why I am currently using a character!