Output parameters not readable when used with a DataReader

Question

When using a DataReader object to access data from a database (such as SQL Server) through stored procedures, any output parameter added to the Command object before executing are not being filled after reading. I can read row data just fine, as well as all input parameters, but not output ones.

Answer 1

This is due to the "by design" nature of DataReaders. Any parameters marked as ParameterDirection.Output won't be "filled" until the DataReader has been closed. While still open, all Output parameters will more than likely just come back null.

The full Microsoft KB article concerning this can be viewed here.