selecting maximum value of an attribute table within model builder

Question

I am currently trying to automate a process within model builder that selects and extracts a new feature class based upon the maximum value from a field in the attribute table of a polygon without knowing the maximum beforehand.  i tried using the sql expression SELECT MAX("Field Name") within the select tool but it says an invalid sql expression was used.  Any thoughts?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks in advance.

curtvprice · Answer

I have raster data where I'd like to select a large connected area based upon maximum pixel values.

If you're seriously looking for a large connected area you may have to do some processing using the tool Region Group, which finds connected areas with the same raster value. Would you then want to choose the largest connected area with a maximum pixel value? Perhaps you could describe your problem with a little more detail?

ShitijMehta · Answer

I would try something like the attached image. 
Pls read more about Precondition:
http://webhelp.esri.com/arcgisdesktop/9.3/index.cfm?TopicName=Example_of_a_precondition

and 
about using inline variable substitution:
http://webhelp.esri.com/arcgisdesktop/9.3/index.cfm?TopicName=In-line_variable_substitution

Max Raster Value.png

MichaelSutherland · Answer

thanks again for the response.  this tool would seemingly work, however when i verify my sql expression (which is the same expression as used above) i receive an error message stating 'an expected field was not found or could not be retrieved properly.'  it is weird because the query builder populates the menu with the attribute i would like to select.

i also receive an error when i try to manually select the max by selecting unique value (although not in the verification of the sqp expression but when the process is actually executed).

the input raster is within a file geodatabase.

any thoughts?