The database system uses MapChar sets to map language-specific characters to an alternative notation, so, for example, ü to 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 in Unicode, this MapChar set can only be used for Unicode values.
When a database instance is created, the database system creates 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 umlaut characters.
See also:
Database Manager GUI, Creating, Displaying, Changing and Deleting MapChar Sets
SQL Reference Manual, Mapchar Set Name (mapchar_set_name), MAPCHAR(x,n,i)