complex syntax and preg_match

[Drongo_III]

Hi Guys

 

Quick question. I am trying to write a sort of multi purpose validation function (just for simple forms).

 

I want to pass a dynamic value to the length part of the regular expression patterns below. I can get this to work for the 'tstring' case in the switch statement (i.e. where i pre-concatenate the values). But if i use complex syntax and then try to pass the values separately ( as in 'tint'  case below) i can't seem to get it to work. Is it possible to do? Or do i need to pre-concatenate first?

 

Thanks chaps!

 

function call looks like:

$validate->multiVal($_POST['name'], 1, 6, 'tstring');

 

Actual function:

public function multiVal($subject, $lenMin, $lenMax, $type){

	$length = $lenMin . "," . $lenMax;
	switch($type){

		case 'tstring':
		$pattern = "/^[a-zA-Z\s\b]{{$length}}$/";
		break;

		case 'tint':
		$pattern = "/^[0-9]{{$lenMin}, {$lenMax}}$/";
		break;


	}


	preg_match($pattern, $subject, $matches);
                 // check results and return true or false
	}

[Christian F.]

What does the finished pattern look like when you test it?

As far as I can tell from what you've posted, it should work. Though it might be the space after the comma that creates problems for you. Not sure, as I've never tried with a space there.

[Drongo_III]

Thanks Christian - as ever

 

Your spotting the space was indeed the issue! Works now.

[Christian F.]

You're welcome, and glad I could help. Nice to know that the issue was indeed the space, I shall keep that in mind henceforth.