CAML and External List - pass parameter to ReadList (finder) method

Question

I have a Finder method defined on an External Content type (created with Visual Studio). Whan That method receives a parameter. So the method is something like ReadList(string partnerName). I have FilterDescriptor associated with this parameter so the parameter gets populated when I use Entity Picker dialog.

But When I use CAML Query to get items (using SharePoint Client Object Model) I can't get to call the ReadList method with a parameter. An example of my CAML Query is

<View>
    <Method Name='ReadList'/>
    <Query>
        <Where>
            <Contains>
                    <FieldRef Name='Name'/>
                    <Value Type='Text'>{0}</Value>
            </Contains>
        </Where>
    </Query>
    <ViewFields>
    <FieldRef Name='Name'/>
    <FieldRef Name='Id'/>
    <FieldRef Name='BdcIdentity'/>                        
    </ViewFields>
</View>

Setting breakpoint on my BCS assembly I see that indeed ReadList method is called, but parameter is empty. Is it possible to pass the parameter to the method as well?

Answer 1

Got it!

<View>
    <Method Name='ReadList'>
        <Filter Name='PartnerName' Value='{0}'/>
    </Method>
    <Query>
        <Where>
            <Contains>
                    <FieldRef Name='Name'/>
                    <Value Type='Text'>{0}</Value>
            </Contains>
        </Where>
    </Query>
    <ViewFields>
    <FieldRef Name='Name'/>
    <FieldRef Name='Id'/>
    <FieldRef Name='BdcIdentity'/>                        
    </ViewFields>
</View>

Be sure to replace the filter Name attribute value with your own FilterDescriptor name as defined in BCS model and Value attribute with your own value.