BUG: BCP format file created for quote enclosed data cannot be (153131)

SYMPTOMS

A format file created by SQL server to generate quote-enclosed data cannot be reused for transferring data out.

If you use BCP OUT to transfer data into an output file in the form:

field1,"field2","field3","field4"

after the format file is created interactively, the data is successfully written out to the output file specified. However, every subsequent attempt at using the format file created earlier for transferring data (using BCP OUT) from the same table will format data in a different way, causing the output file to be different.

WORKAROUND

Do not use the format file more than once if the data being transferred with BCP OUT is for purposes other than use with SQL server.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Microsoft SQL Server version 6.0. We are researching this problem and will post new information herein the Microsoft Knowledge Base as it becomes available.

MORE INFORMATION

The format file can however be used to transfer data from the output file into the table, using BCP. But if BCP OUT of data was for puposes other than populating a SQL server table this may cause a problem. Each time the data needs to be written out using BCP, a new format file needs to be created interactively or manually.