code for a null outcome

[niche]

I get "Fatal error: Function name must be a string in" from this script:

if (strlen($row2('firstname') > 0)    {      $hit = 1;    }

Where $row2('firstname') is a null value because it's from a query that produces zero records.How should I script my if statement to avoid the fatal error when zero records are selected?Thanks,Niche

[jeffman]

First, use [brackets] to access array values.You should already have safeguards that prevent you from assigning values to an array if your query produces no results. Test the return value of your query for false, and then (if it's true) pass it to mysql_num_rows before you do anything else. (I'm assuming you're using mysql.)Aside from that, the way to test an array value before you try to access it is with isset() or empty(), as in:if (isset($row2['firstname'] ) ) {// do something}

Edited March 22, 2010 by Deirdre's Dad

[niche]

Please explain "use [brackets] to access array values".Thanks

[thescientist]

Aside from that, the way to test an array value before you try to access it is with isset() or empty(), as in:if (isset($row2['firstname'] ) ) {// do something}

[jeffman]

$row2['firstname']instead of$row2('firstname')

Edited March 22, 2010 by Deirdre's Dad

[niche]

So, I don't have to use PHP Sessions to use isset()?

[justsomeguy]

The isset function doesn't have anything to do with sessions. Isset only checks if a variable is set, nothing more, nothing less.

[niche]

Why doesn't isset() show up under any of the PHP Reference lists?

[justsomeguy]

Because the lists aren't complete.http://www.php.net/manual/en/function.isset.php

[niche]

I didn't know that!Point well taken - " don't be satisfied with the easily digested "how to" guides and online documentation - it's shallow."Justsomeguy's last thread allowed me to answer what was to be my next question by finding is_null().Thanks to Deirdre's Dad, thescientist, and justsomeguy. I'm very grateful for your help.Niche