A wildcard is used as a variable for unknown characters. FPDS generally uses a trailing wildcard when doing a search. It automatically inserts a wildcard at the end of whatever you typed.
Example: If you type OFFICE in the name field of the Entity Selection screen and then click the Search button, you may get something like this:
OFFICERS EQUIPMENT COMPANY
OFFICE SERVICE COMPANY
OFFICE FURNITURE LIQUIDATORS
Use the percent sign (%) when you want to insert a wildcard.
Example: If you type %OFFICE in the name field of the Entity Selection screen and then click the Search button, you may get something like this:
BOISE CASCADE OFFICE PRODUCTS
SIERRA OFFICE SYSTEMS