Julian Date in SQL Server

[Martin Chou <martin.chou@INS.COM>]

I am currently using the function DATEPART in this format
DATEPART(DY,GETDATE()) to get my julian date.  This actually works fine
but I need to pass a variable in place of the GETDATE().  Thus, I am
trying to use this syntax DATEPART(DY,$DATE).  The variable type that I
am using is $ and the variable date format is YYMMDD.  Unfortunately,
the SQR doesn't seem to like the variable.  Any suggestions on why this
doesn't work?  Thanx.

Martin