Cannot use left parenthesis in Extract Wizard Query Builder

Description

The Query Builder in the Extract Wizard does not accept left parenthesis in expressions. Attempting to add a parenthesis produces the following message "Left parentheses must follow an item or operator". This message is produced even when the parenthesis does follow an item or operator.

Using the keyboard to add the left parenthesis erases parts of the expression.

Cause

This is a known issue with ArcGIS 8.1

This Wizard uses the ArcInfo Workstation RESELECT command, which does not allow complex, single-line, bracketed expressions. The RESELECT command requires expressions to be build vertically (multiple lines) and horizontally.

Solution or Workaround

• For example, the following expression:
  
  

  AREA > 500 and (SITE = 'G' OR SITE = 'M'), 

  
  
  Can be built vertically like this:
  
  

  Subset   AREA > 500
  Subset   SITE = 'G' OR SITE = 'M' 

  
  You would do this with the Subset method.
  
  
  1. Enter the expression: AREA > 500.
  2. Add it to the Expression List (use the down arrow).
  3. Switch the selection method to Subset.
  4. Enter the expression: SITE = 'G' OR SITE = 'M'.
  5. Add it to the Expression List.
  
  
  
  
• For example, the following expression:
  
  

  (age = 1 and height = 3) or (age = 2 and height = 4) 

  
  
  Can be built vertically like this:
  
  

  Subset   age = 1 and height = 3
  Add      age = 2 and height = 4 

  
  You would do this with the Add method.
  
  
  1. Enter the expression: age = 1 and height = 3.
  2. Add it to the Expression List.
  3. Switch the selection method to Add.
  4. Enter the expression: age = 2 and height = 4.
  5. Add it to the Expression List.