Abs is a mathematical function that returns the absolute value of a numeric value, row, column, or cell. The absolute value of a number is that number without regard to sign. A negative number becomes positive, while a positive number does not change. The function syntax:
Abs (argument)
where argument is one of the following:
Argument | Description |
|---|---|
numeric | A numeric value. For example, Abs (- 20) returns the value 20. Numeric values can include decimals and negative values. |
row, column, or cell reference | A pointer to a row, column, or cell within a grid. References can be specified in several ways. The reference syntax: GridName.GridElement[segment(range)].Property. |
function | An embedded function |
Examples:
The following expression includes a numeric argument and returns the value 30:
Abs ( -30 )
The following example returns the absolute value of the value in row 1:
Abs(row[1])
The following example calculates the absolute value of the sum of column E:
Abs( column[E].sum )
The following example points to expanded rows 1 through 3 within design segment 3 of the form Grid1:
Abs( Grid1.row[3(1:3)])