Functions |
A function is a special type of command word in the SQL99 command set. In effect, functions are one-word commands that return a single value. The value of a function can be determined by input parameters, as with a function that averages a list of database values. But many functions do not use any type of input parameter, such as the function that returns the current system time, CURRENT_TIME.

The SQL99 standard supports a number of useful functions. This chapter covers those functions, providing detailed descriptions and examples. In addition, each database vendor maintains a long list of their own internal functions that are outside of the scope of the SQL standard. Lists and descriptions are provided for each database implementation's internal functions.

In addition, most database vendors support the ability to create user-defined functions (UDF). For more information on UDFs, refer to the CREATE FUNCTION command in Chapter 3 (SQL Statements Command Reference).

Deterministic and Nondeterministic Functions
Functions can be either deterministic or nondeterministic. A deterministic function always returns the same results if given the same input values. A nondeterministic function returns different results every time it is called, even when the same input values are provided.

Why is this important? It is important because of how functions may be used within views, user-defined functions, and stored procedures. The restrictions vary across implementations, but these objects sometimes allow only deterministic functions within their defining code. For example, Microsoft SQL Server allows the creation of an index on a column expression--;as long as the expression does not contain nondeterministic functions. Rules and restrictions vary between the vendors, so check their documentation when using functions.