Idea Summary:

The goal is to enhance the readability of numeric inputs and calculated fields by applying a format mask (such as commas for thousands, decimal points, etc.) during the input phase itself, rather than relying on backend formatting like to_char.

Use Case:

• During Input: When users enter numbers, they should be formatted in real time to improve readability (e.g., 5,000 instead of 5000).
• Calculated Fields: Once the number is processed and any calculations are done, the resulting value should also be displayed with formatting.

Preferred Solution:

You could use libraries or mask properties that provide real-time formatting for numbers without altering the underlying data type or structure. Some JavaScript or framework-based options include:

1. JavaScript Libraries:

• **Inputmask.js**: This library provides input masks for various formats, including currency, percentage, and numeric formats.
• **autoNumeric**: It automatically formats input fields to display numbers with comma separators, decimal points, and more while keeping the number valid for calculations.

2. HTML Input Element with Pattern/Masking:

• You can also apply a custom pattern for input fields using pattern attributes or oninput event listeners to format numbers dynamically as users type.

3. React/Angular Libraries:

• For frameworks like React or Angular, there are specific libraries like react-number-format or ngx-mask to easily integrate number formatting during input.

This method avoids the backend manipulation (e.g., using to_char(5000, '999G990D00')) by keeping the number format in place on the client-side while maintaining the numeric type for calculations.

 Oracle APEX, 

Approach 1: Using the Format Mask in Oracle APEX

1. Create a Text Field item in your form where users will input numbers.
2. Under the Settings section for the item, locate the Format Mask property.
3. You can apply a predefined format mask, for example:
   • 999G999G999 for grouping with commas
   • 999G990D00 for decimals with thousands grouping

This mask will ensure the number is displayed in the formatted way after submission, but for real-time formatting as users type, you need an additional step.

Approach 2: Real-Time Formatting Using JavaScript (autoNumeric)

Oracle APEX allows you to inject JavaScript for real-time input formatting. Using autoNumeric.js, you can format input fields without changing the underlying numeric type.

Include the autoNumeric library in Oracle APEX:

• Go to Shared Components > Static Application Files.
• Upload the autoNumeric.min.js file (you can download it from autoNumeric).

Add JavaScript to Format the Input Field:

• In your page, navigate to the Text Field for number input.
• Under the Advanced section, add a static ID to the field, e.g., P1_NUMBER_FIELD.

Add Dynamic Action for JavaScript Execution:

• Go to Dynamic Actions and create a new one.
• Set the Event to Page Load or After Refresh.
• Under True Actions, add Execute JavaScript Code, and use the following code:

Approach 3: Use Input Masks (Without JavaScript)

Alternatively, you can use the built-in Input Mask functionality in APEX:

1. Select your number field in the APEX page designer.
2. Under Settings, locate the Input Mask attribute.
3. Apply a mask like:
   • 999,999,999 for commas.
   • Custom masks can be added to control decimals or other formats.

However, the built-in Input Mask is more rigid than a JavaScript-based solution and may not handle all formatting requirements dynamically.