Tag: conversion functions

Using TRY_CAST() to Handle Errors When Converting Between Data Types in DuckDB

Posted on by Ian

Encountering errors while converting between data types can be frustrating when working with SQL databases like DuckDB. But it usually means that something’s wrong. In most cases these errors occur because we’re trying to perform an impossible conversion, like from a number to a date or something.

But sometimes errors can get in the way, especially when we’re trying to convert a bunch of values. Sometimes it would be better for the system to return NULL for such failed conversions than to return an error and mess up the whole operation. Fortunately, we can do this.

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Understanding SQLite’s CAST() Expression

Posted on by Ian

SQLite is a widely-used lightweight database engine that powers many mobile, embedded, and desktop applications. One of its key features is its dynamic type system, which allows flexibility in handling data. While this is advantageous in many scenarios, there are cases where developers need precise control over how data is treated or converted between types. This is where SQLite’s CAST() expression comes in.

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How CAST() Works in MySQL

Posted on by Ian

In MySQL, CAST() is a built in function that converts a value to another data type. It takes a value of one type and returns a value of the specified type.

You provide the value as an argument when you call the function, as well as the type that you’d like it converted to.

CAST() works similar to CONVERT(), except that the syntax used is slightly different.

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How CONVERT() Works in MySQL

Posted on by Ian

In MySQL, CONVERT() is a built in function that converts a value to another data type. It takes a value of one type and returns a value of the specified type.

We provide the value as an argument when we call the function, as well as the type that we want it converted to.

The CONVERT() function is similar to the CAST() function, which also converts between data types.

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