Weird Float datatype problem

[cervin]

I have an SQL table that has a field that is of type Float. I have a ColdFusion application that reads and writes data to this table. The problem is if I put a value of say 2.1 in the ColdFusion form and submit it, then I go into the SQL table it shows me a value of 2.1 . But if I read this value out of the table in a ColdFusion page, it will show that the value is 2.099999999999998. Has anyone ever seen this? Does anyone know how I can fix this? Thanks in advanced.

 

[fluteplr]

Thats the joy of floats.

You may want to consider using numeric and define the number of decimal places.

 

[tlbroadbent]

Float and Real are approximate data types. Values cannot be represented precisely. That is why fluteplr recommended using Numeric (Decimal is equivalent) which is a fixed decimal data type and allows exact precision and scale declaration.

If you want to get the best answer for your question read faq183-874 and faq183-3179.
Terry L. Broadbent - DBA
SQL Server Page:

http://tlbroadbent.home.attbi.com/sql/sql_articles.htm