Mapped superclass

An entities that extend a Mapped Superclass class inherit the persistent state and mapping information from a superclass. You should use a mapped superclass to define mapping information that is common to multiple entity classes.

A mapped superclass can be:

• Abstract or concrete classes

A mapped superclass cannot be:

• Be queried or passed as an argument to Entity-Manager or Query operations

• Be the target of a persistent relationship

A mapped superclass does not have a defined database table. Instead, its mapping information is derived from its superclass. To override the mapping information for a specific subclass, use the @AttributeOverride annotation for that specific class.

A mapped superclass is identified by the @MappedSuperclass annotation.

Use this procedure to add Mapped Superclass persistence to an existing entity:

1. Open the Java class in the Package Explorer.

2. Select the class in the JPA Structure view.

3. In the JPA Details view, use the Map As drop-list to select Mapped Superclass.

   Selecting Mapped Superclass Persistence

   
   

4. Complete the remaining JPA Details view (for entities).

 

Adding persistence to a class