Re: Working with U.S. Zip Codes

Amit Bansal wrote:
>
> In <317AD8CF.6CB1_at_american.edu> Jessica <je8468a_at_american.edu>
> writes:
> >
> >I am currently working on an application (to be run under an ORACLE7
> >database) which requires me to find the state for a specific U.S. zip
> >code.
> >
> >I've already downloaded a list of all U.S. zip codes from a web site and
> >have stored it in a base table. The list has over 33,000 entries of zip
> >codes, cities, and states. But rather than having to search the entire
> >table each time, I'm wondering if anyone is aware of a more optimal
> >solution for such task.
> >
> >I was told by someone that using the first 3 digits of the zip code, one
> >could find the state in which the zip code resides. Is this actually
> >true? If it is, this would probably reduce the list to < 1,000 entries.
> >
> >I would appreciate any help on this from anyone doing a similar task.
> >
> >Thanks.
> >-- Kevin
>
> I am currently developing a system and storing just the first digit of the zip
> code in the states table. We use this information while entering the zip
> code for an address, but state code is entered first. I am told by my users
> that each states zip starts with a specific number ( like 9 for CA) and I am
> using that as the validation criteria. I am not sure if the reverse is true i.e
> given the first digit, if we can find the equivalent state codes. Give a call to
> Postal Services, they may have an answer.
>
> Amit Bansal

Amit....

I am curious....

>>> I am told by my users

there are 50 states... what number system are you using to accomodate 50 integers between 0 and 9....????? <g>

Fred Kingston Received on Tue Apr 23 1996 - 00:00:00 CEST