Showing posts with label sql server. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sql server. Show all posts

SQL Server 2000 Stored Procedure & XML Programming, Second Edition Review

SQL Server 2000 Stored Procedure and XML Programming, Second Edition
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SQL Server 2000 Stored Procedure & XML Programming, Second Edition ReviewAn informative and comprehensive book.
A lot of realistic examples and suggestions that help to
solve complex and everyday SQL problems quickly.
I was able to make a database deployment process easier and faster using this book solution. One of the best book on the market for the SQL Server developers of all levels.SQL Server 2000 Stored Procedure & XML Programming, Second Edition OverviewGet thorough coverage of SQL Server 2000—including extended XML capabilities and VS.NET updates with this expertly written resource. Learn to harness the full benefits of modular programming, and achieve faster execution and a reduction of network traffic. Included are a sample database and an end-to-end solution for a Web search engine.

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Microsoft® SQL Server 2000(TM) Performance Tuning Technical Reference Review

Microsoft® SQL Server 2000(TM) Performance Tuning Technical Reference
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Microsoft® SQL Server 2000(TM) Performance Tuning Technical Reference ReviewI bought this book on the basis of the glowing recommendations here. As I have a number of servers to tune which execute some extremely complex SQL, and I need to be able to look inside with Perfmon and the profiler, I thought this book would be very useful. I particularly wanted help with sysmon.
This book gave me virtually nothing. Its coverage of tuning was shallow, information was repeated unnecessarily, text was copied almost verbatim from BOL, and it provided little or nothing that couldn't be found elsewhere and easily.
It tries to cover everything at the cost of giving real value. For example it provides 15 pages on data warehousing of which 12 are a description of data warehousing so cursory that if you don't know the subject you'll only be confused, and 3 pages on actual tuning which basically say that you should find out whether the bottleneck is CPU/disk/memory then add more CPU/disk/memory respectively.
Sizing and capacity planning are introduced with seven equations without justification. Okay, but completions C is given as the number of transactions that were completed during the observation period, but on the facing page C = 96 seconds [sic]. Did anyone proof-read this? With these and numerous other oddities (trunc. log on chkpt on SQL2000?) I don't know what I can trust.
The mathematics for this section is done and finished in 6 pages.
I was particularly looking for a comprehensive description of sysmon counters. Other than a quick rundown of the obvious ones there's a long list in the appendix of others, including such gems as "lock blocks allocated: the total number of allocated lock blocks". The whole point of buying this book was to find out how to use them, or indeed what they mean (Skipped Ghosted Records/Sec - means what?); merely giving me a list of them is redundant. This was the biggest letdown for me - I need this info!
There are other important omissions. I have spent literally weeks identifying and working round failures in the query plan optimiser. This serious issue is not properly addressed except for a chapter introducing query hints. A taxonomy of optimiser failures and ways of tackling each type might save others from the headaches I've had. Optimiser hints do not always suffice.
The book is rated on the back for user levels IT Implementer and Corporate Developer. That is far too generous.Microsoft® SQL Server 2000(TM) Performance Tuning Technical Reference Overview
Performance tuning a relational database can be engaging yet frustrating, and this guide gives you the practical information you need to configure and tune a Microsoft® SQL Server™ 2000 database for better, faster, more scalable solutions. The authors start with the basics and build upon them to teach the mechanics of performance tuning and how they affect the whole system. This book also shows how to optimize for the underlying operating system and hardware. It's the only book of its kind coauthored by engineers who have worked in the SQL Server performance group.

Expert instruction helps you understand these topics:

THE BASICS:

Architectural fundamentals that affect tuning
I/O tuning and RAID storage considerations
How to tune hardware, database layout, and configuration parameters
Feature enhancements for better ease-of-use, performance, manageability, and reliability.

SERVER TUNING:

How to use the Microsoft Windows® 2000 System Monitor and the SQL Server Profiler to shorten transaction response times.

SIZING AND CAPACITY PLANNING:

How to model software and hardware usage to predict resource consumption and conduct preconfiguration planning, and how to perform what-if scenarios about workload growth to avoid slow response times.

CONFIGURING AND TUNING:

How to tune online transaction processing (OLTP) systems, data warehouses, and replicated systems.
How to set up your system for high-performance backup and recovery.

TUNING SQL STATEMENTS:

How to get optimal performance by using Query Analyzer and Profiler to tune SQL statements and stored procedures.
How to take advantage of indexes and hints.


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Mastering SQLServer 2000 Review

Mastering SQLServer 2000
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Mastering SQLServer 2000 ReviewThis book suffers from the same shortcomings of most first-wave books on a new product. There are references to features and limitations of the previous version of the product and editing oversights that would mislead a reader unfamiliar with the product. I have used MSSQL 7.0 for some time and there were points in the book that were in conflict with what I knew to be true that caused me to re-read a statement a few times before I realized what the author meant to say. Unless you absolutely have to have a MSSQL 2000 book now I would wait for the next batch of books. Only with better editing could I recommend this book. In the meantime if you don't need a tutorial on SQL the Books Online that come with MSSQL 2000 will serve as a more reliable reference.
I was hoping for "Inside SQL Server 2000" and should have waited the extra month. If it proves to be as good as the 7.0 version it will be well worth the wait.Mastering SQLServer 2000 OverviewComplete. Authoritative. Practical. The only SQL Server book you need.
Mastering SQL Server 2000 is the one indispensable resource for anyone working with the latest version of SQL Server. Whether you build or administer SQL Server databases or write applications that communicate with them, you'll find the background knowledge and the practical instruction you need to accomplish any task, from the most basic to the most advanced. Coverage includes:
Understanding SQL Server architecture
Designing an efficient normalized database
Writing Transact-SQL statements and batches
Creating databases
Creating tables and views
Creating stored procedures and triggers
Administering SQL Server
Managing SQL Server security
Designing applications using ADO, SQL-DMO, and SQL-NS
Using Data Transformation Services
Integrating SQL Server with the Internet
Optimizing SQL Server performance
Understanding and managing replication
Using Analysis Services to analyze data
Using Microsoft English Query
Troubleshooting common problems


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MCTS SQL Server 2005 Implementation & Maintenance Study Guide (Exam 70-431) Review

MCTS SQL Server 2005 Implementation and Maintenance Study Guide (Exam 70-431)
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MCTS SQL Server 2005 Implementation & Maintenance Study Guide (Exam 70-431) ReviewIt's nice to have a prep book that is not only easy to follow, but actually prepares you for the test. I found Tom's book very staightforward, and it's very accessable as a reference book as well. If you're planning on taking the certification test for SQL 2005, you can't go wrong with this book. It also helped prep me for teaching SQL in my workshops across the country. The book is one of the resources I carry on the road with me.MCTS SQL Server 2005 Implementation & Maintenance Study Guide (Exam 70-431) OverviewThe Best Fully Integrated Study System Available
With hundreds of practice questions and hands-on exercises, MCTS SQL Server 2005 Implementation & Maintenance Study Guide covers what you need to know--and shows you how to prepare--for this challenging exam.

100% complete coverage of all official objectives for Exam 70-431

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Beginning SQL Server 2005 for Developers: From Novice to Professional (Expert's Voice) Review

Beginning SQL Server 2005 for Developers: From Novice to Professional (Expert's Voice)
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Beginning SQL Server 2005 for Developers: From Novice to Professional (Expert's Voice) ReviewI've been looking around for a book that covers the full & released version of SQL Server 2005 and this is the only one I've found so far. All of the other books appear to be based on beta versions. Something to keep in mind.
The author tackles the subject of the book in a detailed yet concise manner and this makes for an interesting read. I would definitely recommend this to people migrating to SQL Server, people new to the system, and people upgrading to the latest version.
As with any book, there are the odd few flaws in the book and some of the code can be hard to understand, but these are only small issues and certainly wouldn't devalue the book in my opinion.Beginning SQL Server 2005 for Developers: From Novice to Professional (Expert's Voice) OverviewSQL Server 2005 is the next generation of the SQL Server database. It is the number one relational database for the Windows platform and represents a great leap forward for SQL server developers in terms of programming options, productivity, database management, and analysis. So if you have some basic knowledge of relational databases, and are looking to start a development career using SQL Server, then this book is the ideal first step.Assuming no prior knowledge of SQL Server, it teaches a database novice the core jobs and roles involved in developing for a SQL Server database for the SQL Server 2000 and 2005. It comes with a free CD containing an evaluation edition of SQL Server 2005 that you can install and then use to work through all of the tutorials, which cover:- SQL for querying, inserting, updating, and deleting data- How to build a complete databases, from fundamentals of relational database design, to creating tables, relationships, indexes, and so on- Coverage of how to back up and restore databases to get you started with basic database administration in SQL Server- How to program in T-SQL, SQL Server's implementation (and extension) of the SQL programming language- Effective programming techniques using stored procedures and triggersThis book also provides practical advice, answers typical questions that you'll encounter from managers and DBAs, and offers practical steps to overcome issues with which beginners traditionally struggle. At every stage, it establishes a range of tried-and-tested practices and techniques that mark you out as a competent developer from the very start.

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Beginning SQL Server 2005 Express for Developers: From Novice to Professional (Expert's Voice in .NET) Review

Beginning SQL Server 2005 Express for Developers: From Novice to Professional (Expert's Voice in .NET)
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Beginning SQL Server 2005 Express for Developers: From Novice to Professional (Expert's Voice in .NET) ReviewThis is an excellent book for learning SQL Server 2005 Express. I started learning MS Access in 2003 when my wife asked me to develop a database for her to use at work. At the time I knew only the words "relational database". Over 99% of what I needed to know to develop that contact and resource management database to its fully featured capability came from multiple books.
The expectations have changed over time and now I need to use SQL Server 2005 Express as a back end with Access as the front end for that database. Knowing nothing about SQL Server 2005, I needed a very good book to help bring me up to speed. I found that in Robin Dewson's "Beginning SQL Server 2005 Express."
From the installation of SQL Server 2005 Express through an explanation of Triggers and Reporting Services, there is a clear and concise explanation of each aspect with the opportunity to Try It Out. I needed to know all of what he presents and I was especially interested in Installation, Security, and Database Backup, Recovery, and Maintenance. The Installation chapter explains very carefully and clearly authentication mode, service accounts, user instances, etc. The Security chapter clearly explains logins, server roles, database roles, and schemas. The Database Backup, Recovery, and Maintenance chapter is also clear and carefully written with information on types of backups, detaching and attaching a database, and transaction logs.
The Chapter headings are:
1. SQL Server 2005 Express Overview and Installation
2. SQL Server Management Studio Express
3. Database Design and Creation
4. Security
5. Defining Tables
6. Creating Indexes and Database Diagramming
7. Database Backup, Recovery, and Maintenance
8. Working with the Data
9. Building a View
10. Stored Procedures
11. T-SQL Essentials
12. Advanced T-SQL
13. Triggers
14. Reporting Services
Robin Dewson is a very good teacher with the gift of knowing how to present a concept and then build concept on concept. He also provides helpful tips on things to do and not to do.
Beginning SQL Server 2005 Express for Developers: From Novice to Professional (Expert's Voice in .NET) OverviewSQL Server 2005 Express Edition is a free relational database management system from Microsoft and provides a major subset of full SQL Server 2005 functionality. Many users learn on SQL Server 2005 Express Edition and then move on to SQL Server 2005. Users can also develop significant real-world solutions in SQL Server 2005 Express Edition and then migrate them to the full version. In fact, for small databases and organizations, the Express Edition is often adequate on its own to support business needs. Its user base is rapidly growing.This book is a comprehensive, clear, and gentle introduction to all fundamental aspects of SQL Server 2005 Express and the T-SQL database language. It assumes no prior experience in databases or programming and is ideal for any new SQL Server Express user, whatever their use of SQL Server Express.

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Mastering Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Express Edition Review

Mastering Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Express Edition
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Mastering Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Express Edition ReviewBefore I had got this book I had been reading tutorials on the internet. I wanted a single source of information so I started looking for a book. I'm just starting to get into SQL Server and I'm going to convert an Access DB into SQL Server 2005 Express.
My experience with Access was learn as you go because I needed to get the app finished asap. By the time I was done I wanted to redo the whole app again using the knowledge I'd gained through the whole process. Now I do not have time constraints and like I said I'm going to redo the Access DB in SQL Server 2005 Express, but I didn't want to make the mistake of jumping in right away and learning as I go. So I decided to read up as much as I could before starting.
After reading this book I feel I have a solid understanding of most the aspects of SQL Server 2005 Express. What I wanted most was to learn about backups and security which this book does a good job of covering. I think the strongest attribute of the book is it reads easy and fast, but has good information. The chapters are kept short so it is easy to finish each in one sitting.
I gave it four stars because to me it is a comprehensive book, but after reading it I don't believe I have "mastered" SQL Server 2005 Express. I don't think anyone could with one book. I think it gives the reader a good base knowledge on most aspects but to master them you'd have to research further.Mastering Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Express Edition OverviewA Comprehensive Guide to Microsoft's New Express Edition of its Bestselling Database ServerMicrosoft's SQL Server 2005 Express Edition is the perfect fit if you're a small business owner, trainer, or student who doesn't need all the bells and whistles of the full version of SQL Server 2005. In this comprehensive guide written by two SQL Server experts, you'll find step-by-step explanations and simplified management tools forusing SQL Server Express in smaller-scale but still mission-critical situations. With a focus on practical tasks, the book thoroughlycovers both database administration and development, smoothly moving you from beginner to advanced subjects.Coverage Includes* Understanding basic database concepts* Getting to know database types: file server, client server, relational and more* Learning Structured Query Language (SQL) and SQL Server's Transact-SQL* Creating efficient and useful databases* Writing queries and stored procedures to explore your data* Automating the administration of your databases* Developing database applications with Visual Basic(r) Express* Using SQL Server Management Studio Express* Sharing data between multiple servers* Monitoring and optimizing SQL Server ExpressFeatured on CDCD includes Microsoft(r) SQL Server Express and Visual Basic(r) Express!Leverage the Experience of Experts through Real-World ExamplesIncrease Your Own Productivity with an Entire Chapter on TroubleshootngDiscover Practical Solutions to a Database Administrator's NeedsReduce Complexity and Build Simple Data-Driven Applications

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Pro T-SQL 2005 Programmer's Guide (Expert's Voice) Review

Pro T-SQL 2005 Programmer's Guide (Expert's Voice)
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Pro T-SQL 2005 Programmer's Guide (Expert's Voice) ReviewShort Summary:
Pro T-SQL 2005 Programmer's Guide book examines SQL Server 2005 T-SQL from a developer's perspective. It covers a wide range of developer-specific topics in SQL Server 2005. This book covers many newly introduced topics in depth. This book is written as a practical and useful guide to help database developers who mainly deals with T-SQL. This book is really hit the spot with appropriate .NET code at few places where needed. This book assumes a basic knowledge of SQL but it is really easy for new beginners developers to understand and advanced developers to enjoy further reading.
Detailed Summary:
One thing I really liked about this book is that it can be either read cover to cover, or it can be used as a reference guide for one particular topic. Index of this book is extremely well organized and aids to find the right topic very quickly. Books is structure is many chapters and each chapter justifies the chapters with good details and proper amount of examples.
Each chapter has excellent advice and knowledge and filled with sample code (available online). The book is targeted specifically at SQL Server 2005 and the innovative ways to code T-SQL, new functions and commands. If is very easy to get started with this book and it immerses in comprehensive reading in no time. This book addresses many details and comparisons with T-SQL in very organized way. The examples are in very accurate and useful as well sufficient to targeted topics. This book addresses many of the real world issues with examples, discussions and solutions.
This book start with providing a brief history of T-SQL and the ANSI SQL standards. SQLCMD and SQL Server Management Studio are new tools to explore SQL Server 2005 and are covered in depth in beginning of the book. Chapters which covers Common Table Expressions (CTEs), new datatypes, operators, keywords, functions, and control of flows are really interesting and with necessary explanation. Readers of my blog are very well aware of my interests in Error handling and debugging. Interesting enough for me there is one whole chapter dedicated to that. The regular T-SQL concepts which I write a lot about Stored Procedure, Triggers and Dynamic SQL each have their own chapter. One thing many T-SQL book does not cover in depth is XML, XQuery and XPath which are properly discussed and their importance is explained properly. Last three chapter of the book which covers SQLCLR, .NET Client Programming and HTTP Endpoints requires the Microsoft .NET FrameWork 2.0, as it contains some code which are written in VB and C#.
One thing which I always liked in any database book is, use of sample database AdventureWorks. I strongly believe that all the example should be independent from previous examples and should use default database. If you have not installed default database AdventureWorks, you can get its latest location by searching in my blog SQLAuthority.com. All the script of examples are available to download online. No book is free from the errors and website for this book have errata list, which is surprisingly very small.
I will list few tips from book which interested me. This will give brief idea how good this book is.
"TABLESAMPLE always returns an approximate number of rows because of the way it samples data. The required percentage is the number of data pages SQL Server retreves in full to fulfill your TABLESAMPLE request. The number of rows returned by TABLESAMPLE will often be slightly less, or greater, than the specified amount."
"Anytime you use dynamic SQL, make sure that you take precautions against SQL injection, that is, malicious SQL Code being inserted into your SQL statements. In this instance we're using the QUOTENAME function to quote the column names being dynamically generated to help avoid SQL injection problems."
Following one example really caught my eyes while reading the book. It seems Author accurately described the situation and put his suggestion regarding syntax.
"The ANSI SQL:2003 standard includes a MERGE statement that performs the same function as the upsert type of SP. The prerelease versions of SQL Server 2005 included the MERGE statement. Though it was well-publicized during the prerelease period, the MERGE statement was unceremoniously dropped from the production version. We can only hope that Microsoft brings it back sometime in the near future."
Good news is Microsoft have included the Authors request in future version of SQL Server. SQL Server 2008 CTP 4 has included MERGE Keyword.
Rating: 4 and 1/2 stars
In Summary, A book for every developer who want to take full advantage of the power of T-SQL on SQL Server 2005.
Pinal Dave
Principal Database Administrator
(blog.sqlauthority.com)Pro T-SQL 2005 Programmer's Guide (Expert's Voice) OverviewT-SQL is the fundamental language for database programming in SQL Server 2005. All professional SQL Server users need to know it and, even more important, must understand how to use it well. The language has grown considerably since SQL Server 2000 and even experienced T-SQL programmers have many new features to master. They need a convenient single source of information and advice. This book provides that, clearly and comprehensively.Both database administrators and developers will find this highly readable, detailed description of T-SQL an eye-opening and invaluable reference for as long as they work with SQL Server 2005.

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Hands-On Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Integration Services, Second Edition Review

Hands-On Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Integration Services, Second Edition
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Hands-On Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Integration Services, Second Edition ReviewThe database used in this book is not installing and keep on giving me an error when I try to install it. book has pretty good examples to practice. But the book became useless to me as I can not practice the examples given in the book.
Hands-On Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Integration Services, Second Edition Overview
Transform Raw Data Into Meaningful Business Intelligence with SSIS
Deploy and manage high-performance data transformation solutions across your enterprise using the step-by-step techniques in this fully revised guide. Hands-On Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Integration Services, Second Edition explains the tools and methods necessary to extract conclusive business intelligence from disparate corporate data. Learn how to build and secure packages, load and cleanse data, establish workflow, and optimize performance. Real-world examples, detailed illustrations, and hands-on exercises are included throughout this practical resource.

Build SSIS packages using the Import and Export Wizard and Business Intelligence Development Studio
Create Loop and Task Host Containers with Control Flow Designer
Administer SSIS from SQL Server Management Studio and dutil
Secure packages using encryption, roles, signatures, and permissions
Build-in memory lookups and transformations using the Data Flow Engine
Extend functionality using custom scripts and ActiveX components
Use SCD transformations to load data warehouses and data marts
Learn to build a Star Schema and Parallel Data Warehouse
Migrate Data Transformation Services 2000 and SSIS 2005 packages


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Portable DBA: SQL Server Review

Portable DBA: SQL Server
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Portable DBA: SQL Server ReviewIf there is one book that you are considering for SQL Server Administration, this is the one to buy. Covering all the major topics of administration, this book goes above and beyond other SQL Server books for several reasons. Not only does it live up to the promise of an easy to find guide for everyday tasks, it offers the ability to read up quickly on several advanced topics and gain knowledge rapidly. Taken into consideration, are the three latest versions; SQL Server 2000, 7.0 and 6.5, detailing out differences between versions where applicable. Everything is explained clearly. The authors have done an excellent job of providing a wealth of information in short and concise content. It is very refreshing to see a book that was obviously written to be as brief possible without skimping on important details...clearly no fluff here!!!! This has two benefits to the reader, 1; information is easy to find, no time is wasted reading through frivolous content, 2; the cost is lower than those 1,000 page volumes that contain less valuable information. Hopefully this is the start of a new trend in technical books.
In just a few minutes after flipping through, and reading up on backups, I realized that I'm not backing up my production data properly, and can substantially decrease data loss risk by backing up my transaction logs regularly with the data. Also, some security concepts I had a bit of difficulty fully comprehending became clear to me as well.
Reading through this book, it is obvious the authors have extensive experience with SQL Server, as this book has many insider tips that only experts would know through practice. It is also apparent that the authors worked well together as this book reads as though one person wrote it. Definitely a must buy and well worth the cost. I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars.Portable DBA: SQL Server OverviewThis book is the ultimate field guide for every SQL ServerDBA's laptop bag. Don't go onsite without it! Covers the most commonly used SQL Server database versions. Handy, easy-to-find information includes security, database creation and management, restoration and recovery, automating SQL Server administration, monitoring performance, tuning, and much more.

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Mastering Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Review

Mastering Microsoft SQL Server 2005
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Mastering Microsoft SQL Server 2005 ReviewI like everything I have read in this book but the screenshots the authors want you to see are too small to be seen clearly. (I use a magnifying glass (no joke) to enlarge the images). I'm sure Sybex reduced them to make them fit the page. I contacted Sybex to see if the book came in a pdf version or if the images were available in a seperate format. They have not gotten back to me and I take this to mean the answer is "no".
I particularly like the chapter on Analysis Services. It took me a long time on my own to learn what they lay out in that chapter. I wish I had their book before I started down my path.
Summary: good text, hard to view images.Mastering Microsoft SQL Server 2005 OverviewThe Comprehensive Resource for SQL Server 2005 Administrators, Consultants, and Developers
Whether you're a systems administrator, database application developer, or IT consultant, you'll quickly ratchet up your knowledge of Microsoft SQL Server 2005 with this thorough and comprehensive guide. Light on theory and heavy on practicality, it cuts to the chase with real-world examples of large-scale business applications, an entire chapter on troubleshooting, and crucial information on SQL Server 2005's enhanced connectivity. For new users of Microsoft SQL Server, this book takes you quickly, but systematically, through the introductory topics.
Coverage Includes
Integrating SQL Server with .NET Framework
Understanding Service Broker, a distributed application framework
Programming with ADO.NET, the data-access component of .NET
Setting up Notification Services, which delivers personalized information to mobile devices
Using SQL Server Management Studio instead of Enterprise Manager
Designing made easier with new Business Intelligence Development Studio (BIDS)
Printing multi-page reports
Mastering Transact-SQL programming language

Leverage the Experience of Large-Scale Enterprises through Real-World Examples
Increase Your Own Productivity with an Entire Chapter on Troubleshooting
Discover What SQL Server 2005's Increased Emphasis on Connectivity Means to Your Installation
Start Developing Apps--All the Information You Need!
www.sybex.com

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Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Stored Procedure Programming in T-SQL & .NET Review

Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Stored Procedure Programming in T-SQL and .NET
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Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Stored Procedure Programming in T-SQL & .NET ReviewThis book contains much useful information on SQL Server 2005 T-SQL enhancements, but it regularly employs functions and constructs in its examples that are only explained in later passages. Specifically, when attempting to absorb a new concept by examining a code example, you must also contend with looking up items which have not yet been covered. This is a mild stumbling block but it hurts the flow of the book.
Also, the practice database (Asset5) did not attach properly (on my SQL Server 2005 STD edition install regarding appropriate permissions to modify objects) and the most direct workaround was: (1) To use the included, but unreferenced script to initialize the database and all its objects using a "new name" for the database (2) Attach the original database - Asset5 (3) Use the data import feature to populate the "new name" database tables (4) Drop the attached database Asset5 (5) Rename the "new name" database to Asset5. I did first attempt to modify the permissions associated with the login I was using - unsuccessfully...
By way of comparison I am using Oracle Press' "Oracle 9i The Complete Reference" by Koch and Loney as a standard of clarity and conceptual organization for PL-SQL. It is on this basis that I assign this book 3 stars, but admit that I have yet to discover a better book for advanced T-SQL topics. Please feel free to forward me better titles.
As an aside, Murach's SQL for SQL Server is the best introductory text I have found for T-SQL.
Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Stored Procedure Programming in T-SQL & .NET Overview
Create and Use Stored Procedures for Optimal Database Performance

Develop complex stored procedures to retrieve, manipulate, update, and delete data. Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Stored Procedure Programming in T-SQL & .NET identifies and describes the key concepts, techniques, and best practices you need to master in order to take full advantage of stored procedures using SQL Server's native Transact-SQL and .NET CLR languages. You'll learn to incorporate effective Transact-SQL stored procedures into client or middleware code, and produce CLR methods that will be compiled into CLR stored procedures. This is a must-have resource for all SQL Server 2005 developers.

Essential Skills for Database Professionals
Group and execute T-SQL statements using batches, scripts, and transactionsCreate user-defined, system, extended, temporary, global temporary, and remote stored procedures Develop and manage stored procedures using C# and Visual Basic .NETImplement database access using ADO.NETCreate CLR user-defined functions and triggersImplement reliable debugging and error handling techniques and security measuresManage source code in a repository such as Visual SourceSafeCreate stored procedures for web search enginesUse system and extended stored procedures to interact with the SQL Server environment




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SQL Server 2008 Transact-SQL Recipes (Books for Professionals by Professionals) Review

SQL Server 2008 Transact-SQL Recipes (Books for Professionals by Professionals)
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SQL Server 2008 Transact-SQL Recipes (Books for Professionals by Professionals) ReviewThis book is among the finest works on SQL Server which I've ever read. Joseph Sack has a well-deserved reputation for quality writing, yet I'm frankly more impressed than I expected to be. I've read many of his articles & the previous edition of this book has long been one of my favorites.
This latest-&-greatest edition, SQL Server 2008 Transact-SQL Recipes, has lots of new material & is his best yet. Joe's writing style is clear, concise, & comprehensive. The approach is unique, the chapter sections flow logically from one to anothter, yet they are written in independent vignettes for byte-sized consumption. His examples allow us to play along at home. They are accompanied by lucid explanations. The book doesn't stoop to copying code, but instead relies on unique examples followed by my favorite feature of all: "How It Works" in which the concepts are characterized in plain English. You'll enjoy it, too.
If it can be done in Transact-SQL, Joe teaches us not merely how it's done, but how it's done right. Topics run the gamut from fundamental concepts such as interrogating tables, creating views, defining indexes, & writing stored procedures, triggers, & functions, to more complex topics such as error handling & principals to newer constructions such as XML, Service Broker, CLR, spatial data, encryption, & auditing--& much more.
I used the book as my primary resource to study successfully for 70-441 & 70-442 (MCITP: DB Dev). I recommend it to all my customers. If you're a SQL Server DBA or a developer, I recommend this book is for you as well.Jimmy May
Microsoft Sr. Performance Consultant: SQL Server
SQL Server Pros, Founder & Visionary-in-Chief
Indianapolis Professional Association for SQL Server, Founder & Executive CommitteeSQL Server 2008 Transact-SQL Recipes (Books for Professionals by Professionals) OverviewWithout Transact-SQL, there is nothing. Developers and database administrators using Microsoft SQL Server 2008 are highly-motivated to learn Transact-SQL, because that language enables them to store and retrieve data, to move business logic into the database, and to interface with advanced SQL Server features. The recipe format facilitates just-in-time learning, showing readers immediately how to perform their assigned tasks, and is sure to be a hit with today's busy professional.

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The Guru's Guide to Transact-SQL Review

The Guru's Guide to Transact-SQL
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The Guru's Guide to Transact-SQL ReviewAh, where to begin. This book is a masterpiece. It is over the top. It distills, in one volume, all that's worth knowing about advanced Transact-SQL. If you've read the Books Online, this book is a natural next step in your T-SQL education. It took me from a rank amateur to an advanced coder within days. It gave me insights into new ways of coding that I'd never have thought of on my own. It showed me how to work in harmony with T-SQL and SQL Server, rather than try to get them to do things they weren't designed to do.
The best chapters, are, IMHO, these:
- DML Insights
- DDL Insights
- The Mighty SELECT
- Statistical Functions
- Transactions
- Cursors
- Sets
- Arrays
- Stored Procedures and Triggers
- T-SQL Performance Tuning
- Administrative T-SQL
- OLE Automation
- Undocumented T-SQL
There's so much good info in this book, it's hard to pick a list of the "best chapters." To be sure, there's not a weak chapter in the book, and you should read every last one of them.
[...] This book is a must-read for anyone serious about coding in Transact-SQL.The Guru's Guide to Transact-SQL OverviewSince its introduction over a decade ago, the Microsoft SQL Server query language, Transact-SQL, has become increasingly popular and more powerful. The current version sports such advanced features as OLE Automation support, cross-platform querying facilities, and full-text search management. This book is the consummate guide to Microsoft Transact-SQL. From data type nuances to complex statistical computations to the bevy of undocumented features in the language, The Guru's Guide to Transact-SQL imparts the knowledge you need to become a virtuoso of the language as quickly as possible. In this book, you will find the information, explanations, and advice you need to master Transact-SQL and develop the best possible Transact-SQL code. Some 600 code examples not only illustrate important concepts and best practices, but also provide working Transact-SQL code that can be incorporated into your own real-world DBMS applications. Your journey begins with an introduction explaining language fundamentals such as database and table creation, inserting and updating data, queries, joins, data presentation, and managing transactions. Moving on to more advanced topics, the journey continues with in-depth coverage of: Transact-SQL performance tuning using tools such as Query Analyzer and Performance Monitor Nuances of the various T-SQL data types Complex statistical calculations such as medians, modes, and sliding aggregates Run, sequence, and series identification and interrogation Advanced Data Definition Language (DDL) and Data Management Language (DML) techniques Stored procedure and trigger best practices and coding methods Transaction management Optimal cursor use and caveats to look out for Full-text search Hierarchies and arrays Administrative Transact-SQL OLE Automation More than 100 undocumented commands and language features, including numerous unpublished DBCC command verbs, trace flags, stored procedures, and functions Comprehensive, written in understandable terms, and full of practical information and examples, The Guru's Guide to Transact-SQL is an indispensable reference for anyone working with this database development language. The accompanying CD-ROM includes the complete set of code examples found in the book as well as a SQL programming environment that will speed the development of your own top-notch Transact-SQL code.

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Inside Microsoft SQL Server 2005: T-SQL Programming (Solid Quality Learning) Review

Inside Microsoft SQL Server 2005: T-SQL Programming (Solid Quality Learning)
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Inside Microsoft SQL Server 2005: T-SQL Programming (Solid Quality Learning) ReviewFirstly, this is not a book for beginners or those new to T-SQL, this is targetted more towards intermediate/advanced programmers. If you're new then look at T-SQL Querying.
The level of knowledge and detail that Itzik, Dejan and Roger have and portray in this book is awesome. Do you want to know how SQL Server 2005 internally stores date/time values and what the pitfalls are that you might run into when programming against date/time values (one of the most common problems facing SQL programmers), this book has the answer.
With chapters on Stores Procedures, Transactions, temporary tables, views, the service broker and more.
Each chapter has excellent advice and knowledge and filled with sample code (available online). The book is targetted specifically at SQL Server 2005 and the new ways it handles things, new functions and commands.
My only concern and a slight one at that is that with the amount of information the authors are trying to portray in 500 pages, sometimes the reading is heavy.
An invaluable book for SQL Server 2005 programmers.Inside Microsoft SQL Server 2005: T-SQL Programming (Solid Quality Learning) Overview
Get a detailed look at the internal architecture of T-SQL with this comprehensive programming reference. Database developers and administrators get best practices, expert techniques, and code samples to master the intricacies of the programming language—solving complex problems with real-world solutions.

Discover how to:

Understand when to apply set-based programming techniques
Design and implement date and time-related XML and CLR datatypes
Use temporary objects, including temporary tables, table variables, and table expressions
Work with T-SQL and CLR user-defined functions, stored procedures, and triggers
Support user input-based queries and variable data with dynamic execution
Work with transactions and new exception handling constructs
Apply a concurrency model to support simultaneous users
Use Service Broker for controlled asynchronous processing in database applications This book includes code samples on the Web.


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Professional SQL Server 2008 Internals and Troubleshooting Review

Professional SQL Server 2008 Internals and Troubleshooting
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Professional SQL Server 2008 Internals and Troubleshooting ReviewBrief Review: Having a book on internal and associating that with real life is "almost" an impossible task. The reason for using the word "almost" is because this book has accomplished this very well. This internals book is written by keeping real life scenarios as top focus. The highlight of the book is that it teaches how to use internals to troubleshoot the real life issues of performance, storage, query processing and all the other important aspects of SQL Server - A must-have book for everybody who is a hands-on DBA/Developer.
Detail Review: I planned to finish reading this book within a week. Very soon, I realized that I was going over very interesting subjects of SQL Server very quickly and understanding them very well. In fact, I finished reading this book in less than a week, and I have to accept that it offers an interesting journey for its readers. This book is also quite easy to read. This book has addressed some of the complex subjects in such a simple manner that any SQL user can understand it very easily.
The three very important components for any server are CPU, Memory and IO. This book effectively elucidates these three components. The topics usually begin by covering internals which shift to practical implementations after proper amount of internals. In other way, I can say that this book is NOT a usual boring book, which can put you to sleep. Each chapter keeps you interested till the end of it. CPU and IO, which are very important deciding factors for Query cost, are very well explained in the book. This book explains how any query can be understood in terms of internals. After explaining the query internals in terms of CPU and IO, it also explains how the physical memory affects query execution and what are the techniques to improve performance?
This book gives an in-depth explanation of Wait Types and Extended Events. I must admit that I was quite scared of Wait Types and Extended Events thus far and learned how "friendly" they can be after reading this book. In fact, I can really see that how I can use these concepts in my real life scenarios and help my servers to run better and efficiently. This book also covers some topics which do not have much available help online, i.e. SQLDiag, RML Utilities, etc. One who is new to these subjects can easily learn from the basics and soon can move to an advanced level. Again, as mentioned earlier, this book is written by taking the real world into consideration and all these subjects follow the same goal.
In fact, I liked the entire book. However, the chapters which I really enjoyed the most are Chapter 3: SQL Server Waits and Extended Events by Jonathan Kehayias; Chapter 4: Working with Storage by Brent Ozar; and Chapter 5: CPU and Query Processing by Steven Wort. Each chapter is independent of the other chapters; this way, the reader can practically start reading any chapter from anywhere and explore the book according to his/her convenience.
Databases are required because there is a large amount of data available, and keeping the data safe, secure and available is the MOST important task of any database system. The fourth chapter on Storage by Brent covers this important basic concept very thoroughly. The most impressive part of Chapter 4 is that it explains how storage works in real time. While taking about storage, Brent manages to effectively explain the concepts of High Availability and Disaster Recovery as well. Maintenance of storage has always been a challenge, and also there has been a lack of understanding on storage devices and techniques available. This chapter answers few very basic but important questions like when should SAN be used for data storage, and what is its effect on performance? This chapter also explains RAID setup; however, please note that it focuses on "practical internals." After setting up good storage, it is equally important to test it; this chapter continues discussing different tools and methodologies for testing storage. This chapter also covers Windows Server Configuration as well as tuning of software by means of storage devices. Corruption can be significant problem in case of a large database; this chapter also covers the proper usage of DBCC CHECKDB and its best practices.
There is no doubt that this book is written by experts who have extensive experience in the subject, which is covered in different chapters. Solid and thorough content, plenty of code, easy-to-understand diagrams, lots of tips along with each topic and simple language are the key highlights of this book.
Rating: 5 Stars
Summary: There is no doubt that this book is by far one of the best books available for anybody who is interested in SQL Server Internals and applying its knowledge to real world troubleshooting scenarios. I think this is one of the must-have books for understanding SQL Server, and believe me, you will find yourself flipping the pages of the book when you are facing a trouble with the SQL Server instead of using search engine!Professional SQL Server 2008 Internals and Troubleshooting OverviewA hands-on resource for SQL Server 2008 troubleshooting methods and tools
SQL Server administrators need to ensure that SQL Server remains running 24/7. Authored by leading SQL Server experts and MVPs, this book provides in-depth coverage of best practices based on a deep understanding of the internals of both SQL Server and the Windows operating system.
You'll get a thorough look at the SQL Server database architecture and internals as well as Windows OS internals so that you can approach troubleshooting with a solid grasp of the total processing environment. Armed with this comprehensive understanding, readers will then learn how to use a suite of tools for troubleshooting performance problems whether they originate on the database server or operating system side.
Topics Covered:
SQL Server Architecture
Understanding Memory
SQL Server Waits and Extended Events
Working with Storage
CPU and Query Processing
Locking and Latches
Knowing Tempdb
Defining Your Approach To Troubleshooting
Viewing Server Performance with PerfMon and the PAL Tool
Tracing SQL Server with SQL Trace and Profiler
Consolidating Data Collection with SQLDiag and the PerfStats Script
Introducing RML Utilities for Stress Testing and Trace File Analysis
Bringing It All Together with SQL Nexus
Using Management Studio Reports and the Performance Dashboard
Using SQL Server Management Data Warehouse
Shortcuts to Efficient Data Collection and Quick Analysis

Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included as part of eBook file.

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The Guru's Guide to SQL Server Stored Procedures, XML, and HTML Review

The Guru's Guide to SQL Server Stored Procedures, XML, and HTML
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The Guru's Guide to SQL Server Stored Procedures, XML, and HTML ReviewI never thought I'd say this but this book is even better than the first Gurus Guide book! Henderson cuts loose and just writes. It feels like you've got the guru sitting right next to as you read.
As with his first book, Henderson runs a tight ship with this one. There's no fluff or other filler material. Instead, you just get the goods, and you get them by the boatload.
My fav things about this one are:
* Extended Proc coverage. I've always wondered how to build these. The coverage in this book is absolutely excellent. It could be a book unto itself.
* XML coverage. I've never seen a better cut-to-the-chase introduction to XML and the XML features in SQL Server. It's a wonderful, hands-on tutorial written by a master.
* Emphasis on treating transact-sql as a real language. Henderson stresses this over and over and he's right. This book is every bit as good as the high-end programming books that feature languages like C++ and Java.
* Essays on software engineering. These are some of the best technical writing I've ever read.
I don't think you could spend your money on a better SQL Server book.
DjFThe Guru's Guide to SQL Server Stored Procedures, XML, and HTML OverviewSQL Server developers worldwide raved about Ken Henderson's The Guru's Guide to Transact-SQL: its exceptionally clear, conversational explanations, and its powerfully useful projects and code examples. This book helps SQL Server developers take the next step -- building more powerful, robust applications than ever before. Henderson identifies several key areas of SQL Server development that offer the greatest power -- and then covers each of them in exceptional detail. The book includes especially thorough coverage of Transact-SQL stored procedure programming, including features such as extended procedures, database design, and XML that are often disregarded in competitive books. Henderson introduces a method he has developed to add arrays to T-SQL, something previously thought impossible. He offers an ideal balance of theory and code, gradually building on basic techniques to create increasingly sophisticated solutions, and teaching the philosophy of Transact-SQL programming alongside syntax and technique. An accompanying CD-ROM includes extensive source code, including valuable proprietary code that makes T-SQL queries run faster. For every SQL Server developer.

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Inside Microsoft® SQL Server® 2008: T-SQL Programming (Pro-Developer) Review

Inside Microsoft® SQL Server® 2008: T-SQL Programming (Pro-Developer)
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Inside Microsoft® SQL Server® 2008: T-SQL Programming (Pro-Developer) ReviewBeing primarily a database and web developer, I feel more than experienced enough to review 'Inside Microsoft SQL Server 2008: T-SQL Programming' by Itzik Ben-Gan and others and I feel more and easily able to give this ***** and highly recommend this text. All the basics are covered in this 800 page book. It's not a teaching book that will give you all the ins and outs of database design and use, but it will show you what the major points of using SQL Server 2008 are, and how to get the most out of them.
Major topics covered are Views, User-Defined Functions, Stored Procedures, Triggers, Transactions & Concurrency, Error Handling, Temporary Tables/Table Variables, Cursors, Dynamic SQL, Date/Time usage, CLR User-Defined Types, Temporal Support, XML & XQuery usage, Spatial Data, Tracking Access and Changes, and finally Service Broker discussion.
The parts of the book that I enjoyed most were the last 6 chapters, as discussion on CLR usage, Spatial Data, and the like are limited in most other SQL Server books. I especially loved the chapter on Spatial data, a very important subject that has much, much greater support than years in the past.
If you are a SQL Server developer or admin, you owe it to yourself to take a hard look at this great book. It is written fantastic and is a great resource that I found useful from the moment I picked it up.
***** HIGHLY RECOMMENDEDInside Microsoft® SQL Server® 2008: T-SQL Programming (Pro-Developer) Overview
Get a detailed look at the internal architecture of T-SQL with this comprehensive programming reference. Database developers and administrators get best practices, expert techniques, and code samples to master the intricacies of this programming language—solving complex problems with real-world solutions.

Discover how to:

Work with T-SQL and CLR user-defined functions, stored procedures, and triggers.
Handle transactions, concurrency, and error handling.
Efficiently use temporary objects, including temporary tables, table variables, and table expressions.
Evaluate when to use set-based programming techniques and when to use cursors.
Work with dynamic SQL in an efficient and secure manner.
Treat date- and time-related data in a robust manner.
Develop CLR user-defined types and learn about temporal support in the relational model.
Use XML and XQuery and implement a dynamic schema solution.
Work with spatial data using the new geometry and geography types and spatial indexes.
Track access and changes to data using extended events, SQL Server Audit, change tracking, and change data capture.
Use Service Broker for controlled asynchronous processing in database applications.

All the book's code samples will be available for download from the companion Web site.


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