How to Convert varbinary(max) to String in SQL Server?

Converting varbinary(max) to String in SQL Server

This guide demonstrates how to effectively convert varbinary(max) data to a user-friendly string representation within SQL Server. This is crucial when dealing with binary data that needs to be interpreted or displayed.

The Solution

The CONVERT function provides the solution. Use the following syntax to achieve the conversion:

<code class="language-sql">SELECT CONVERT(VARCHAR(1000), varbinary_column, 2);</code>

Replace varbinary_column with the actual name of your varbinary(max) column.

Understanding the Parameters

• VARCHAR(1000): This specifies the target data type. Adjust 1000 to a suitable length based on your expected string output. Consider using VARCHAR(MAX) if the resulting string might be very long.
• varbinary_column: This is the name of your varbinary(max) column.
• 2: This crucial third parameter defines the style of conversion. The value 2 represents "Unicode (hex with optional leading 0x)". This ensures the hex values are displayed clearly with the "0x" prefix for easy readability.

Illustrative Example

Let's assume a table named MyTable with a varbinary(max) column called BinaryData:

| BinaryData | |---|---| | 0x48656C6C | | 0x576F726C64 |

The following query converts the binary data to its string equivalent:

<code class="language-sql">SELECT CONVERT(VARCHAR(1000), BinaryData, 2) AS StringData FROM MyTable;</code>

This will produce the following output:

| StringData | |---|---| | Hell | | World |

This method provides a straightforward and efficient way to manage and present varbinary(max) data in a more accessible format. Remember to adjust the VARCHAR length as needed to accommodate your specific data.

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