Binary vs. Integer Parameters

[Jon.Paris@xxxxxxxxxx]

 >> Okay, makes sense, so why then are the parameters for the API's defined
binary?  And
 >> the follow up question, since the API parameters are defined as binary,
isn't the
 >> quantity/value limitation therein inheirant

Parms are defined as binary because they are <grin> the term binary is
generic - remember that the API is used by C, and COBOL as well as RPG.
Each language then represents the binary requirement as best it can.  Until
the introduction of the I and U data types in RPG IV the B(inary) type was
the closest you could get.  The idea that it's the appropriate type to use
is perpetuated by the fact that very few API writers have got round to
updating their RPG examples.

The limitation is not inherent since the languages in which the APIs are
written (mostly C, C++, or PL/MI) are all capable of a true (i.e. integer)
binary representation.


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