A parameter is a variable whose value can be set at runtime (for example, from
the Runtime Parameter Form or the command line). Parameters are especially useful
for modifying SELECT
statements and setting PL/SQL variables at
runtime.
Reports Builder automatically creates a set of system parameters at runtime, but you can create your own as well. You can create parameters to replace either single literal values or entire expressions in any part of a query. You can reference parameters elsewhere in the report, such as in PL/SQL constructs providing conditional logic for the report. Note that while you can delete or rename a user parameter, you cannot delete or rename a system parameter.
Parameter values can be specified in these ways:
Accepting the default parameter values (default values are set in the Property Inspector, and you can control whether the values are displayed at runtime on the Runtime Parameter Form).
Typing the parameter value(s) as arguments on the command line (where applicable). Parameters specified on the command line override the equivalent system parameter values set in the report definition.
Choosing from a list or entering the parameter value(s) in the Runtime Parameter Form.
Oracle Reports is shipped with the following system parameters. You can change their default values as described above.
Is the number of report copies that should be made when the report is printed. |
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Is either:
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Is the name of the output device (for example, the file name, printer's name, mail user ID). |
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Is the type of device that will receive the report output
(for example, |
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Is whether the report should run in |
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Is the print direction for the report ( |
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Is whether the Print Job dialog box should appear before the report is run. |
You can create a user parameter in the following ways:
Create a parameter in the Object Navigator.
Use a bind parameter reference in a query, which causes Reports Builder to automatically create the parameter the first time it is referenced.
About referencing columns and parameters
Using a pre-defined system parameter
Creating a list of values (LOV) for a parameter
Selecting parameters to include in the Paper Parameter Form
Validating a parameter value at runtime
Passing parameters to reports running in batch mode
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