Formula In-DB Tool

The Formula In-DB tool creates or updates fields in an In-DB data stream with an expression using the native language of the database, such as SQL. Use the Formula In-DB tool to modify data within a database based on an expression or data relationship.

In-Database enables blending and analysis against large sets of data without moving the data out of a database and can provide significant performance improvements over traditional analysis methods. For more about the In-Database tool category, see In-Database Overview.

Tool complexity

While most In-DB tools do not require SQL commands, this tool requires SQL for more advanced processing.

Configure the tool

  • Output Field: This is the field the formula will be applied to. Choose a field listed in the drop down or add a new field.
  • Type: Select the appropriate Data Types of the new field. If an existing field is selected, the Type is for reference only.
  • Expression: The expression box is for reference only. It will populate with the expression built in SQL Expression. The formulas constructed here are embedded within a SELECT statement.
  • Navigation buttons: Click to set the order of formula execution. Click to delete the selected formula.
  • SQL Expression: Build the expression to be applied to the specified field.
  • Insert Fields: A list of available columns that can be inserted in the SQL Expression editor.
  • Validate expression here at runtime: Provides information about errors contained in the expression.
    • When checked, a query is sent to the database and any errors are reported in the Message display for the tool.
    • When unchecked, the query is not sent until the In-Database workflow is complete and any errors are reported in the Message display in any downstream tools