Comparing dropdownlist null item

[brunoss]

I have a combobox with values binded from a database
I add an empty item in the first index

ddlFichaTipo.DataBind();
ListItem emptyitem = new ListItem(null, null);
ddlFichaTipo.Items.Insert(0, emptyitem);

then i need to check if the item selected is not that one

if(ddlFichaTipo.SelectedValue != null)
gridselect += " and ficha.FichatipoID = " + ddlFichaTipo.SelectedValue;

The condition is always true whatever the item is selected. What's wrong?...

ddlfichatipo is my drop down list.

[Plater]

Selected value is probably an empty string.
Did you set a breakpoint and actually look what SelectedValue IS when your empty item is selected?
Why not use SelectedIndex or SelectedItem or the other more useful properties?

[brunoss]

Actually I changed the condition to

if (ddlFichaTipo.SelectedIndex != 0)

and didn't change a thing... I'm not able to debbug my program actually...

[Plater]

You cannot debug it? Is it for an embded system or something?

[GaryTexmo]

You can always debug your program :) If it's a matter of not having visual studio you can always put logging in. Something I typically do is create a new form with a textbox on it and use it to log messages.

In fact, I think I'll write a quick insight on it :) Check that section in a bit.

That said, you can also very easily get Visual Studio. Express Edition (2008 and 2010) is available as a free download from Microsoft. I'd recommend it unless you're unable to for other reasons.

[brunoss]

Yes I do have Visual studio indeed. But actually i'm putting breakpoints and it just dont stop. Yes, I know how to put a breakpoint and I think there isn't anything disabling it... I do laugh at myself xD

[brunoss]

Well i solved my problem in a weird way but it's working... xD. Thank's for the tips

[Plater]

What turned out to be the solution/issue?

[brunoss]

Assigned other events althougth it's not perfect neither the best way of doing it. Ill try to find other one soon.

it's doesn't recognise the item after the empty one.

[brunoss]

Woot got it just too dummy i was calling a remove duhh xD

Just put the first code on the pre render event of dropdownlist and its done.
Thanks again.