Data validation question

[Triniirish]

I am trying to develop a *.dbf file that requires specific number of characters in a field. My approach is to have various columns for the different fields and use data validation to specify the number of characters allowed in the respective column.

I am hoping that there is a way to get get a specific number of characters using a formula in the data validation even if less characters are inputted.

Example if I need 15 characters and only 5 are inputted could a formula in data validation insert the other ten either as spaces or zeros?

I was assuming that it would be a formula with LEN... something like
IF((LEN(A2)<15, then add/insert " ", so that LEN(A2)=15) I have no idea how to write a formula that would do this.

 

[Jonmo1]

Welcome to the board...

Example if I need 15 characters and only 5 are inputted could a formula in data validation insert the other ten either as spaces or zeros?

No, not in data validation.
Data Validation only allows/disallows entry based on specified rules.
It cannot alter the input.


I would suggest a formula in an adjescent column.

if you want the spaces AFTER the entered value
=LEFT(A1&REPT(" ",15),15)


If you want the spaces BEFORE the entered value
=RIGHT(REPT(" ",15)&A1,15)


Then you have your adjusted values in the extra column, and you can use that for your .dbf file


Hope that helps.

 

[Triniirish]

Thanks.