Welcome to our blog post on SQL Server concepts and ideas! In this article, we will discuss various topics related to SQL Server and provide insights into some interesting features and functionalities. Let’s dive in!
User Defined Function to Strip HTML
One common task that developers often face is the need to remove HTML tags from a text. In this blog post, we introduce a User Defined Function (UDF) that scans the entire HTML text and removes all the HTML tags, leaving only the valid text data. This UDF can be a handy tool in your SQL Server toolbox.
De-fragmentation of Database at Operating System Level
Did you know that the operating system skips the MDF file while defragmenting the entire filesystem? In this blog post, we discuss the impact (or lack thereof) of this behavior on the performance of your SQL Server. Our conversation with network engineers sheds light on this topic.
Delay Execution of Commands
Have you ever needed to delay the execution of commands in SQL Server? We explain how to achieve this using the WAITFOR keyword and provide a T-SQL script as an example. This can be useful in scenarios where you want to schedule certain actions or introduce delays in your SQL Server processes.
Measure the Length of Text Field
When working with text fields in SQL Server, it’s important to know how to measure their length. We discuss the function DATALENGTH(textfield) and explain why the LEN function doesn’t work for text fields. We also highlight the importance of migrating text fields to VARCHAR(MAX) in SQL Server 2005 and later versions.
Retrieve Current Date Time
There are multiple ways to retrieve the current datetime in SQL Server. We explore three common methods: CURRENT_TIMESTAMP, GETDATE(), and {fn NOW()}. Understanding these options can help you effectively manage date and time-related operations in your SQL Server queries.
Comparison of NULLIF and ISNULL
NULLIF and ISNULL are two functions in SQL Server that handle null values differently. In this blog post, we explain the differences between these functions and provide an interesting question for you to ponder: Can you create an infinite loop using NULLIF and ISNULL? We invite you to explore this concept further.
Introduction to SERVERPROPERTY
SERVERPROPERTY is a powerful system function in SQL Server that returns various system values. We frequently use it to retrieve server-related information such as server collation and server name. Understanding how to leverage SERVERPROPERTY can enhance your SQL Server administration tasks.
Find Current Identity of Table
Knowing the current identity value of a table is often necessary in SQL Server development. We discuss a DBCC command that can help you quickly determine the current identity value, avoiding the need for complex queries or aggregating functions. This can be a time-saving technique in your SQL Server workflow.
Create Check Constraint on Column
Constraints are a fundamental concept in SQL Server that ensures data integrity and enforces rules on table columns. In this blog post, we emphasize the importance of using check constraints and provide guidance on how to create them effectively. Paying attention to constraints can lead to more robust and reliable database designs.
List Schema Name and Table Name for Database
When working with databases, it’s often helpful to have a script that lists the schema name and table name for each table. In this straightforward blog post, we provide a script that displays this information, making it easier for you to navigate and understand your database structure.
Clustered Index on Separate Drive
A clustered index plays a crucial role in organizing data within a table. In this blog post, we discuss the concept of a clustered index and its impact on performance. We highlight the importance of storing data in a specific order and explain how a clustered index can enforce this order.
Understanding Table Hints
Table hints are options and suggestions that can be specified in SQL Server queries to influence the query optimizer’s execution plan. In this blog post, we provide examples and explanations of table hints, helping you understand how to optimize your queries and improve performance.
Data Pages in Buffer Pool
Understanding how data is stored in memory cache can greatly impact SQL Server performance. In this earlier article, we explore the concept of data pages in the buffer pool and how they relate to indexes. This knowledge can help you optimize memory usage and improve query response times.
Transaction, DML, and Schema Locks
Locking is an essential aspect of database transactions and concurrency control. In this blog post, we present a scenario where you can observe a schema lock in SQL Server. Understanding different types of locks and their implications can help you design more efficient and scalable database systems.
Solution – Puzzle – Statistics are not updated but are Created Once
In this example, we create a situation where statistics are not updated but are created once. We pose two questions: why does this happen, and how can you fix this issue? By exploring this scenario, you can gain insights into the behavior of statistics in SQL Server and learn how to ensure accurate query optimization.
Selecting Domain from Email Address
Extracting the domain name from an email address can be a useful task in SQL Server. In this blog post, we provide a script that demonstrates how to select only the domain name from an email address. This can be handy when working with email-related data in your SQL Server queries.
Solution – Generating Zero Without using Any Numbers in T-SQL
Have you ever wondered how to generate a zero digit without using any numbers in T-SQL? This intriguing question is explored in this blog post, where we provide a solution. Test your problem-solving skills and discover an interesting approach to achieving this task.
Simple Explanation and Puzzle with SOUNDEX Function and DIFFERENCE Function
The SOUNDEX function and the DIFFERENCE function are powerful tools for finding similar-sounding words or names in SQL Server. In this blog post, we provide a simple explanation of these functions and present a puzzle for you to solve. Enhance your understanding of string matching and comparison in SQL Server.
Read Only Files and SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)
SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) offers various features and functionalities that may not be widely known. In this blog post, we explore the “Read Only” files feature in SSMS and discuss its implications. Expand your knowledge of SSMS and discover hidden gems that can enhance your SQL Server management experience.
Identifying Column Data Type of uniqueidentifier without Querying System Tables
Knowing the data type of a column, such as uniqueidentifier, can be useful in SQL Server development. In this blog post, we present a method to identify the column data type of uniqueidentifier without querying system tables or using DMVs. Simplify your workflow and improve efficiency with this handy technique.
Solution – User Not Able to See Any User Created Object in Tables – Security and Permissions Issue
Encountering issues where a user is unable to see user-created objects in tables can be frustrating. In this blog post, we address this problem and provide solutions related to security and permissions. Gain insights into troubleshooting and resolving access-related issues in SQL Server.
Importing CSV File Into Database
Importing CSV files into a database is a common task in SQL Server. In this short video, we demonstrate how to import a CSV file into a database using SQL Server. Follow along and learn a quick and efficient method for handling CSV data in your SQL Server workflows.
ColumnStore Index – Batch Mode vs Row Mode
ColumnStore indexes offer significant performance benefits in SQL Server. In this blog post, we delve into the logic behind when ColumnStore indexes use batch mode and when they use row mode. Understanding these modes can help you optimize query execution and leverage the full potential of ColumnStore indexes.
Follow up – Usage of $rowguid and $IDENTITY
In this follow-up blog post, we provide further clarification on the usage of $rowguid and $IDENTITY in SQL Server. If you’re unsure about the differences between these two concepts, this blog post offers a script example and explanations to help you grasp their distinctions. Enhance your understanding of identity columns and globally unique identifiers (GUIDs) in SQL Server.
We hope you found this blog post informative and insightful. SQL Server offers a vast array of features and functionalities, and exploring these concepts can enhance your SQL Server skills and improve your database development and administration tasks. Stay tuned for more articles on SQL Server topics!