converting a column from int to char

• Annie G.

  Mr or Mrs. 500

  Points: 569

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  May 15, 2007 at 1:02 pm

  #177964

  Hello cyber friends,

  After reviewing the specs for a new project and creating approx. 18 tables, and adding data into it, the developer wants to change an int column to char.  The problem is that the field is a primary key on the initial table and a foreign key on other numerous tables. 

  What is the best approach to fulfil this request.

  Thanking you in advance, Annie G.

• John Rowan

  SSC Guru

  Points: 56440

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  May 15, 2007 at 1:36 pm

  #706599

  1. Drop all foreign keys and constraints on the affected columns. 

  2. Run ALTER TABLE <tableName> ALTER COLUMN <columnName> [char].... commands for each table/column to change.

  3. Re-create all constraints.

  John Rowan

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