Criterion types identify the form that query expressions will take and enable you to narrow the results of a query by reducing the number of results that are returned. For example, you can compare a criterion type to a constant value by using the simple value criterion type and return only query results that match the value, such as all processors that equal i386.
The criterion type that you specify in the Criterion Properties: General Tab dialog box identifies the form that the query expression will take. For each criterion type, you are prompted to enter an About Attributes and Attribute Classes and a About Relational Operators (such as, is equal to) in addition to providing the specific information for the criterion type. You can choose from the following five criterion types.
| Criterion type | Description |
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Compares the query attribute to a constant value. You supply a matching value. |
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Compares the query attribute to a null value. Null values are unknown. |
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Compares the query attribute to another attribute. You enter the attribute. |
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Compares the query attribute to the results that are returned by another query. You browse for the query name. |
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Compares the query attribute to a list of constant values. Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007 prompts you for a list of values. |
When you create a query expression by using a criterion type, you compare an attribute that you specify with a value that you select. Constant values must have a data type that is correct for the attribute to which it is being compared. For more information about working with values and criterion types, see About Query Criterion Values.