GENERATE_UNIQUE

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The GENERATE_UNIQUE function returns a bit data character string 13 bytes long (CHAR(13) FOR BIT DATA) that is unique compared to any other execution of the same function. The function is defined as not-deterministic.

The result of the function is a unique value that includes the internal form of the Universal Time, Coordinated (UTC) and the iSeries system serial number. The result cannot be null.

The result of this function can be used to provide unique values in a table. Each successive value will be greater than the previous value, providing a sequence that can be used within a table. The sequence is based on the time when the function was executed. This function differs from using the special register CURRENT TIMESTAMP in that a unique value is generated for each row of a multiple row insert statement or an insert statement with a fullselect.

The timestamp value that is part of the result of this function can be determined using the TIMESTAMP function with the result of GENERATE_UNIQUE as an argument.

Examples