Structured Query Language (SQL) - Cultural View of Technology

Meta-SQL 65
Meta-SQL
'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.
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 include %AsOfDate, %Comma, and
%JobInstance.
Meta-SQL Placement Considerations: Not 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 PeopleCode, 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