That explanation doesn't help me figure out how to help you, unfortunately. What information are you trying to check?

Also, if this DB isn't yours, you need to talk to...

Look up books written by the Kimball Group for a start. This has been an excellent reference for me.

Also, look into books about database design. Most...

It's not a question of which is better in general. It's a question of which is better for your particular circumstances.

Or in common DBA parlance, "It Depends." @=)

What language(s)...

What are you trying to achieve with this temporary index? And why do you want it to only be temporary?

And look up "JOIN" in Books Online. That should help you figure it out.

It's not about the size of the database. It's usually about the number of physical disks you have (or SAN LUNs) available.

Splitting a DB into multiple files...

There's no comprehensive list, but ISTR that I had to change compatibility before I could use PIVOT / UNPIVOT.

I can't tell for sure now because all the DBs...

I go with Ian's suggestion. I always try various combinations then run through a Query Execution plan to see which one works best for my current needs. I...

Are you talking user databases or System databases?

Because System Databases cannot be detached while SQL Server Service is running. You'll have to use the Alter Database command...

There are all sorts of books and training materials out there. Some of the stuff for certification exams can also be useful for learning the basics of SQL Server.

First...

And if there are error messages, don't forget to include them in your post.

I've stopped using NOLOCK just because of the drawbacks. I want to see all the data, so I'll take a little bit of a performance hit just to make...

Glad you found it. Thanks for posting the solution!

ToString() would certainly return the values but you can't SUM() a string. So I would still have to do an additional conversion to get the money or smallmoney values...

Try Matt's suggestion first.