Richard Siddaway's Blog

I’ve used DMVs in PowerShell and SQL Server demos a few times but hadn’t really dug into them.  There isn’t a lot of information available on DMVs but that will change early next year when SQL Server DMVs in Action is published – http://www.manning.com/stirk/ 

I’ve recently read the early access version and it is well worth investing in a copy if you are responsible for administering SQL Server.

The book doesn’t say so but it is very easy to run the scripts in the book from PowerShell

A couple of SQL Server books that I would recommend having been involved with both of them.

First up is SQL Server 2008 Administration in Action by Rod College (Manning – http://www.manning.com/colledge/) which I reviewed several times before publication. It covers SQL Server from sizing and installation, through configuration and day-to-day administration.  Lots of good best practice information written in a easy to read style.

The second is SQL Server MVP Deep Dives (Manning – http://www.manning.com/nielsen/) to which I contributed a chapter on PowerShell and SQL Server. This book has contributions from 53 MVPs (mainly SQL Server) and is edited by Paul Nielsen, Kalen Delaney, Greg Low, Adam Machanic, Paul S. Randal, and Kimberly L. Tripp.  The royalties from the book go to War Child International – (www.warchild.org)

Two good books to add to your SQL Server library

I went on to the Microsoft site looking for books on SQL Server 2008.  What you get is an incomprehensible jumble of stuff.  Don’t tell me about everything there is – let me get to the information I want.

I used to really like the Microsoft site as there was masses of information that usually logically arranged.  Now we get some many layers between us and the information that I’m likely to expire of old age (OK I know its not that long to go) before finding it. 

Another example – I went looking for the information on the SQL Server exams – the logical route through the site leaves you with the impression there isn’t an upgrade from SQL 2005 MCITP to the 2008 version.  Wrong! But oh how you have to search.

I’m coming to the conclusion that the only way to access the Microsoft site is to search from outside and hope you can get to what you need.

A triumph of style over substance at the moment.