Field 1RequiredIdentification Fields

    Metro 2 Field 1: Record Descriptor Word

    Indicates the total length of the logical record. For the Base Segment only, this field contains 0426. When optional segments are appended, the value increases accordingly.

    Quick Reference

    Field Number:1
    Position:1-4
    Length:4 characters
    Type:numeric
    Record:Base Segment
    Required:Yes

    Allowed Values

    ValueMeaning
    0426Base segment only
    0526Base + J1 segment
    0626Base + J1 + J2 segments

    Validation Rules

    • Must be numeric
    • Must equal sum of all segment lengths
    • Minimum value is 0426 for Base Segment

    Examples

    0426052606260726

    Common Errors

    • Value does not match actual record length
    • Using character format length when packed format is expected

    Tips & Best Practices

    • Calculate this field after all segments are appended
    • Each J1/J2 segment adds 100 to the length
    • Each K segment adds 34-40 depending on type

    Related Fields

    2
    Processing Indicator
    Indicates the processing format of the record. Value 1 indic...

    Other Identification Fields

    2Processing Indicator4Consumer Account Number3Identification Number

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