Henderson Consulting » SQL Azure

Everything in it’s right place.

Mike — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 01:15:12 +0000

Watched a presentation on what’s in it for the DBA (http://bit.ly/Xpmt5) in SQL Azure. The big take away for me is SQL Azure manages data file, and file group optimization under the covers. Whether it has to be this way because the nature of the service architecture, or because MS wants to in more control, I like the idea right now. I like not having to evaluate and optimize what object goes in what file group, or whether I need to add another data file or inflate existing ones.

Trying to fit together pieces like network architecture, legacy database design, and growth patterns into the right place can be pretty daunting. Doing it right and seeing the improved performance is satisfying. Not getting it right has a long tail.

Newer data types not supported in SQL Azure.

Mike — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 13:21:54 +0000

Some of the newer data types introduced in SQL 2008 are not supported in the SQL Azure CTP (http://bit.ly/ti7mZ). More specifically hierarchyid and spacial data types.

For me that’s not a big deal because I have only tinkered with these data types, and am not working on any production applications that use them.

I understand adding support for spatial data types is on the way, but the SQL Azure team will prioritize this feature on the basis of demand.

Getting my head in the SQL Azure Cloud.

Mike — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 02:00:00 +0000

Last night I got an email invitation to participate in the CTP release of SQL Azure. I have no idea how exclusive this is or is not, but it was nice just the same.

A short while ago I filled out a form requesting an invitation. At one point I had to gave a brief description as to why I should be included. I wrote a couple of sentences describing my intentions and submitted. The last night the invitation arrived.

I filled out some more information regarding my account and created my first database. It was a little quirky, but I did manage to make a connection to the Azure database from SSMS.

I have been neglecting this blog for a while, but I plan to post a little more frequently as I take a deeper dive into Azure.