When a value becomes too big to store as a signed integer, perl automatically upgrades it to an unsigned integer (technically it sets the SVf_IVisUV flag on the SV). If the value becomes too large even for that, then the SV is upgraded to an NV. This is all automatic and you shouldn't have to do anything yourself (unless you're using an ancient version of perl).

Try running 

perl -MDevel::Peek -e'$x=(1<<60)-1; for (1..6) { Dump $x; $x = $x *2 +
+ 1}'

[download]
If you want something more than this, you'll have to explain your need better.

Dave.

In reply to Re: Can I access and use UV types from perl? by dave_the_m
in thread Can I access and use UV types from perl? by Don Coyote

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