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Comparing .NET values

When comparing .NET variables, including Enums, you cannot use C/AL comparison operators. To compare .NET variables, you must use the Equals method (of the System.Object type) that all .NET types implement or inherit. So, instead of IF var1 = var2, or IF var1 = var1.EnumValue (in case of an Enum), just write IF var1.Equals(var2), or IF var1.Equals(var1.EnumValue).

I see this mistake often being made or attempted by developers, even though it has been documented inside .NET Interoperability documentation since it was introduced with 2009 R2.

Vjeko

Vjeko has been writing code for living since 1995, and he has shared his knowledge and experience in presentations, articles, blogs, and elsewhere since 2002. Hopelessly curious, passionate about technology, avid language learner no matter human or computer.

This Post Has 2 Comments

  1. Debp February 14, 2018 Reply

    So how would you use these types within a case statement?

    1. Vjeko March 1, 2018 Reply

      Easy:
      CASE TRUE OF
      Something.Equals(whatever): BEGIN..END;
      // ETC, you get my gist
      END;

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