Data settings problem

Question

Hi All,
I have a problem with a query (result rather).
1) SELECT TO_char(To_Date('05/10/05','DD/MM/YY'),'D') FROM dual;
2) SELECT To_Char(start_date,'D') FROM TableA WHERE Col_A = 899
I run both these queries locally, it yields me 7 (say) (because start_date is same i.e., (05/10/05) in both cases)
Now when i run the query no 2 in the Server I get a different result say 5.
Why is this difference. Anything to check in the init.ora file or any data time settings to be changed at the server.
Please advice me on this.
Thanks,
V.Boomessh

Answer 1

It's nls_territory dependant.
SQL> alter session set nls_territory='AMERICA';
Session altered.
SQL> select to_char(sysdate,'D') from dual;
T
4
SQL> alter session set nls_territory='FRANCE';
Session altered.
SQL> select to_char(sysdate,'D') from dual;
T
3
SQL> But I'm surprise with your two number 7 and 5...
Nicolas.