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PHP bcscale() Function Explained: How to Set and Get Default Precision for bc Math Functions

M66 2025-08-06

Introduction to the bcscale() Function in PHP

The bcscale() function in PHP is used to set the default number of decimal places for all bc math functions. It defines a unified precision parameter for subsequent calls to bc math functions, making it easier for developers to manage floating-point calculation precision consistently.

bcscale() Function Syntax

<span class="fun">int bcscale(int $scale)</span>

The function accepts one required integer parameter $scale, which specifies the number of decimal places. By default, the precision is 0.

Return Value

The bcscale() function returns the previous default precision value before the new one is set.

Example: Setting Default Precision to 5 Decimal Places

<?php
// Set default precision to 5
bcscale(5);

// Use bcadd with default precision (5 decimal places)
echo bcadd('107', '6.5596');

// Explicitly specify precision as 1 decimal place, which differs from the default
echo bcadd('107', '6.55957', 1);

// Use default precision of 5 decimal places again
echo bcadd('107', '6.55957');
?>

The output will be:

<span class="fun">113.55960 113.5 113.55957</span>

Example: Dynamically Adjusting Default Precision

<?php
// Initial default precision set to 5
bcscale(5);

// Calculation example
echo bcadd('107', '6.5596');

// Explicitly specify precision as 1 decimal place
echo bcadd('107', '6.55957', 1);

// Change default precision to 3
bcscale(3);

// Continue using default precision of 3 for calculations
echo bcadd('107', '6.55957');
?>

The output will be:

<span class="fun">113.55960 113.55 113.559</span>

Conclusion

The bcscale() function is an essential tool in PHP for handling high-precision mathematical operations. It globally sets the default number of decimal places for bc math functions, ensuring all subsequent bc function calls maintain consistent precision. Using bcscale() properly helps avoid issues caused by inconsistent floating-point precision and improves the stability and accuracy of your code.