Is today a weekend or a weekday? A question from the very first SQL Bangalore User Group meeting, answered with the CHOOSE function in SQL Server 2012.
Cursor Options That Matter: LOCAL, FAST_FORWARD and STATIC
Test SQL Server cursor options, including LOCAL FAST_FORWARD and STATIC, on one loop while measuring time and tempdb cost.
SQL SERVER – Using RAND() in User Defined Functions (UDF)
Using RAND() in a user defined function throws Msg 443, invalid use of a side-effecting operator. Here is a simple workaround that lets a UDF use a random value.
SQL SERVER – Removing Leading Zeros From Column in Table
Most people ask how to keep leading zeros in SQL Server. This time a reader wanted to remove leading zeros and white space from a column, so here is a script.
Automating SQL Server Patching With PowerShell
Automating SQL Server Patching with PowerShell means staging a verified package, running Setup quietly, checking logs, and stopping on failure.
Restoring a TDE Protected Database on Another Server
Restore a TDE protected database on another SQL Server by moving its certificate and private key, then verify encryption state.
Storing UTC and Local Time Side by Side
Store UTC and local time consistently, preserve offsets, handle daylight saving changes, and filter timestamps with clear boundaries.