I've debated using a TEXT field; However, my original idea was to have an array of values, I could later QUERY on. For example...

• CPU
• PIII
• 600Mhz

May I suggest that these kinds of things get their own column in the table? Trust me on this one.

create table whatever (
    product_id      int,
    model_number    varchar(16),
    cpu             varchar(16),
    mhz             int
);
[download]

It'll make your queries more readable.

I've slightly modified the code you posted for the array, and it's working pretty well. Here's what I've done...

print "\nEnter a brief description:  ";
  my $desc = join('', <STDIN>);
  my $pg_array = join ('', map {split ' '} $desc);
  
  $pg_array =~ s/, $//;
  $pg_array = "{$pg_array}";
  
  print "$pg_array\n\n";
  
  $sth = $dbh->prepare("
    INSERT INTO $tbl_name (product_id, model_number, description)
    VALUES (?, ?, ?)
  ");
  
  $sth->execute($prod_id, $mod_num, $pg_array);
  $sth->finish();
[download]

I really cannot afford seperate columns, as the description will contain more than just CPU and MHZ. My plan is to use only ONE table for CPU, RAM, HD, Monitor, case, NIC, MB, and videocard.

Thanks.

I really cannot afford seperate columns, as the description will contain more than just CPU and MHZ. My plan is to use only ONE table for CPU, RAM, HD, Monitor, case, NIC, MB, and videocard.

Then each of those gets their own column, too. You've got to believe me. Make sparing use of PostgreSQL's array capabilities, because you're missing the point of relational databases if you use them too much.

If you want to discuss this more, email me at beppu@lineo.com. Meanwhile, I suggest you check out SQL for Web Nerds over at ArsDigita. It's a very nice introductory text.

They also have the classic SICP in its entirety over at ArsDigita if you're interested.

create table products (
 prod_id int primary key,
 model_num int );

create table prod_desc (
 prod_id int foreign key,
 desc text );

SELECT desc FROM products p, prod_desc d WHERE p.prod_id = d.prod_id A
+ND p.prod_id = ?;
[download]