Char Array, String

In VB.NET a Char array can be converted into a regular String. With the String instance constructor we perform this conversion.

Char arrays can be readily converted into String instances in VB.NET. We do not need to build up a string character-by-character unless we must test characters first.

Example

This program declares and assigns into a character array. Next, we invoke the String constructor, and pass the identifier of the character array reference in the argument slot.

Module Module1
    Sub Main()
        ' Create a Char array using assignment syntax.
        Dim arr(8) As Char
        arr(0) = "T"
        arr(1) = "h"
        arr(2) = "a"
        arr(3) = "n"
        arr(4) = "k"
        arr(5) = " "
        arr(6) = "y"
        arr(7) = "o"
        arr(8) = "u"
        ' Create a String from the Char array.
        Dim value As String = New String(arr)
        ' Test.
        Console.WriteLine(value = "Thank you")
    End Sub
End Module
True

In my experience, this approach to String construction is often the fastest. Another efficient way is to use a lookup table and avoid creating a new String in the first place.

Discussion

In VB.NET programs, methods often require a String argument. But in custom methods, you can change these to accept a Char() array. Then no Strings are needed. This reduces allocations.

Character arrays can be easily converted into String instances. Using this approach to creating certain kinds of character data can improve performance.