The SQL Server Installation Date is the create date of the NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM login, and one short query reads it. This post compares that clue with other dates that look right but aren’t, shows how to work out an Evaluation expiry date, and lists the cases where the clue is wrong.
SQL SERVER – Tricks to Comment T-SQL in SSMS – SQL in Sixty Seconds #019 – Video
Three quick ways to comment T-SQL code and uncomment it in SSMS, starting with keyboard shortcuts. A SQL in Sixty Seconds video that saves time while debugging.
SQL SERVER – Monitoring SQL Server Database Transaction Log Space Growth – DBCC SQLPERF(logspace) – Puzzle for You
Old but still my favorite: DBCC SQLPERF(logspace) to monitor transaction log space growth, saved with the time of each snapshot. Plus a puzzle for you.
SQL SERVER – Validating Spatial Object with IsValidDetailed Function
Invalid spatial objects used to give only a simple error. The IsValidDetailed function tells you whether a shape is valid and, when it is not, the reason why.
SQL SERVER – Powershell – Importing CSV File Into Database – Video
PowerShell expert Laerte Junior shows importing CSV file into database tables with PowerShell, with a video, building on my SQL in Sixty Seconds post.
Finding the Right Answer in SQL Server Documentation
Use SQL Server documentation with the right version and platform selected, read syntax carefully, and keep useful reference material offline.
SQL SERVER – Importing CSV File Into Database – SQL in Sixty Seconds #018 – Video
What is the quickest way of importing CSV file data into a SQL Server table? This SQL in Sixty Seconds video shows it: create a table, BULK INSERT, verify.