Robert,

Please post some sample data and code. When I run a similar scenario, it outputs a zero when the numeric values don't match.

Plus, which version of SAS and OS are you using?

Art --------- On Tue, 25 Mar 2008 18:01:15 -0400, Robert Rosofsky <robert.rosofsky@VERIZON.NET> wrote:

>In using PROC COMPARE to produce an output dataset using the OUTDIF option, >PROC COMPARE, for comparing character variables, will insert a period where >characters compare between variables in datasets and an "X" where they >differ. > >For numeric variables, PROC COMPARE will insert the *numeric* value of E >into those numeric variables that are equal and the difference between >numeric values when there is a difference. > >Does anyone know how to test for the special numeric E value? These don't >work: > >1) if CompareVar=E ...; * SAS considers E to be an uninitialized variable. >2) if CompareVar= "E" ...; * SAS issues a NOTE: to the log about numeric to >character transformation, but this doesn't work. >3) if CompareVar= .E ...; * I called SAS Institute and they said that dot- >E was the syntax for the value, but this didn't work as well. I may get >back to them. > >Help will be gratefully appreciated. > >Robert Rosofsky >Health Information Systems Consulting >29 Waldo Road >Milton, MA 02186 >Work: 617-798-8537 >Mobile: 617-680-1149 >Home: 617-696-9415 >Robert.Rosofsky@verizon.net