Just when you thought Microsoft was finished with SQL Server 2005 releases, it announces SQL Server 2005 Everywhere Edition Community Technology Preview (CTP). It's a small-scale database designed to provide relational database capability to mobile and single-user desktop applications. Get to know the newest arrival with these FAQs.
8. How is SQL Server Everywhere different from SQL Server Express?
SQL Server Everywhere is based on SQL Server 2005 Mobile Edition.It runs in process and supports only single-user applications. SQL Server Express uses the same core database engine as the SQL Server Enterprise, Standard, and Workgroup editions, runs as a service, and supports multiuser applications.
7. How big is SQL Server Everywhere?
Because it's designed for mobile devices, it has a small footprint. With a download size of 1.7MB, the product requires about 5MB of RAM and 2MB of disk or flash storage. During installation, you'll need another 2MB for temporary files.
6. What database features does it have?
SQL Server Everywhere supports full referential integrity with cascading deletes and updates and the ability to commit and roll back transactions. SQL Server Everywhere supports most of the same basic data types as SQL Server, including IDENTITY, IMAGE, MONEY, and UNICADE data types. Applications use ADO.NET and SQL to connect to SQL Server Everywhere and access data.
5. What are some of its important limitations?
SQL Server Everywhere is limited to databases no larger than 4GB and doesn't support stored procedures, the XML data type, or the SQLCLR.
4. What OSs does the product support?
The CTP supports Windows Vista;Windows Server 2003 R2 Datacenter, Enterprise, and Standard Editions (x86); Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 (SP1); Windows XP Home, Media Center, and Tablet PC editions; and Windows XP SP2. The final release will also support Windows Mobile.
3. Can SQL Server Everywhere connect to SQL Server?
The product can connect to full-featured SQL Server editions by using merge replication or remote data access. Support for the merge replication client lets you use SQL Server Everywhere for mobile and disconnected scenarios. Remote data access requires Microsoft IIS and enables remote SQL statement execution.
2. How much does it cost?
The product is free.You can download the CTP at http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=85E0C3CE-3FA1-453A-8CE9-AF6CA20946C3&displaylang=en.
1. Where can I find out more?
Visit the Web site at http://www.microsoft1.com/sql/ctp_sqleverywhere.mspx. Plus, you can check out Microsoft's SQL Server Mobile forums at http://forums.microsoft.com/MSDN/ShowForum.aspx?ForumID=15&SiteID=1.
