asked on

Linked Server to Compact Edition possible in 2005 Express?

Hello

I am running SQL Server 2005 Express. There is a third party app on the system that uses Microsoft SQL Server Compact Edition (using a file with an .SDF extension)

Is it possible for me to point to this as a linked server within SQL Server Management Studio? If so, how? I see no "Compact Edition" in the list of datasource types when trying to setup the linked server.

Additionally, if not, is it possible to set it up as an ODBC source?

Thanks

Mark Wills

Nope, not a linked server, but you can "connect" to it by simply bringing up the connection manager and browse for that SDF file. Compact is not a server based solution, so is handled a bit differently...

What you have to do is write a bit of code and link to it that way...

What exactly are you trying to do ?

PMH4514

ASKER

I am trying to insert into it from within a SQL Server stored procedure. The vendor of this third party component that plays a role in my system previously used an MS Access database, and my stored procedures insert directly into it as a linked server. Now they have changed and I guess I have to as well. It all needs to be programmatic, during runtime, can't be opening dialogs and manually browsing for anything. I don't see an ODBC driver for it either so I can't even write a C++ module to do it programmaticly it seems.

ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION

Mark Wills

membership

This solution is only available to members.

To access this solution, you must be a member of Experts Exchange.

Start Free Trial