[RESOLVED] php and mysql null value

[tito]

Hi,

I am doing that game script which involves scores
the mysql column is SMALLINT 5 Unsigned Default NULL

Everything works fine except

1 - MYSQL problem: Sometimes I need to update something, and when I submit with an empty score, mysql replaces the NULL by inserting a 0

2 - PHP problem: Sometimes I get a 2-0 score. In php, I tell it

$homescore = $game['homescore'] > -1 ? $game['homescore'] : '';

But PHP simply will not display it.

How do people handle games with PHP and Mysql?

Thanks

[tomhath]

You're mixing three different things: NULL, 0, and an empty string. If you try to store NULL or an empty string in a variable that php thinks should be an integer (like $homescore), php will use 0 instead because neither of the other two make sense for an integer. Use variables consistently, either as a string or as a number, don't mix them.

I suggest you use something else besides a null score to indicate whatever it is you mean by null (game not played?). Another column with a flag would be easier to work with.

[tito]

Thanks. I got around it with a check box. If checked then the query becomes SET column = NULL