The database system uses MapChar sets to display language-specific characters in an alternative manner, so, for example, ü becomes ue. The characters that need to be converted must use the same character set as the MapChar set. If, for example, a MapChar set has been defined for UNICODE, this MapChar set can only be used for UNICODE values.
When a database instance is created, the database system sets the default MapChar set DEFAULTMAP. You can change the DEFAULTMAP MapChar set and define additional MapChar sets.
MapChar sets are only valid for internal system functions.
The MAPCHAR(x,n,i) function uses MapChar sets to sort fields that contain German umlaut characters (äöü).
See also:
Database Manager GUI, Defining MapChar Sets
Database Manager GUI, Displaying, Changing, and Deleting Mapchar Sets
Reference Manual, Mapchar Set Name (mapchar_set_name)