Why Doesn\'t MySQL Support Microsecond Precision, and How Can I Work Around It?

MySQL's Lack of Microsecond Precision: A Persistent Frustration

MySQL's inability to support microsecond precision has become a nagging issue for developers. As one developer recently discovered, the TIMESTAMP field and related functions are limited to second-level accuracy. This lack of precision can be a significant hindrance in certain applications, such as those requiring timestamps for event logging or financial transactions.

Potential Workarounds

While MySQL does not natively support microsecond precision, there are several potential workarounds to consider:

• Use a BIGINT Field: Storing timestamps as BIGINT values can provide the necessary precision, but this approach requires manual conversion and may break existing date manipulation functions.
• Create a UDF Extension: Compiling a UDF (user-defined function) extension can bypass MySQL's limitations, but it introduces maintenance concerns and potential compatibility issues during upgrades.

A Long-Awaited Resolution

In response to the frustration expressed by developers, MySQL introduced support for fractional seconds with microsecond precision in version 5.6.4. This enhancement allows for more precise timestamping, eliminating the need for complex workarounds and ensuring accuracy in applications that rely on timestamps.

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