i (Index) Processing Code

The i processing code is stored in the correlative (attribute 8) of the file-defining items to maintain index keys. The root FID (VME only) is inserted by the system and must not be altered.

System Processors

N/A

Code Type

File Defining

Dictionary Attributes

Correlative

Syntax

i{sub.code}{root.fid}a.code

Parameter(s)

sub.code

C

Indicates a case-sensitive index.

N

Indicates a numeric index.

root.fid

Beginning (FID) address of the index.

a.code

Defines the method by which the index keys are generated. It must be a valid a processing code and reference at least one attribute count within the file. Translates should only be used in accordance with the s (Subindex) Processing Code.

Description

When an index is created using the create-index command, the system inserts the i code in attribute 8 of the file-defining item along with the root FID and the a processing code.

If data is present and the index processing code is added directly to the file-defining item, the pre-existing items are not added to the index until they are filed. Any new items or pre-existing items that are subsequently filed are automatically added.

If data is present and the create-index command is issued, the file-defining item is automatically updated with the index processing code and added to the index. During the creation of the index, a counter displays on the screen indicating the number of items added to the index.

WARNING

Never delete an index processing code directly from the file-defining item. This is the equivalent of deleting a D-pointer, in that the space for the index is not returned to the overflow table.

Also, never alter a pre-existing root FID in an index, as this can cause data corruption.