SQL Diag is a very useful diagnostic tool that will help capture performance information from SQL Server. This tool is shipped with the SQL Server product. Howerver there is not an easy way to configure the tool - it requires the hand editing of an XML file, which is tedious and error prone. That is until now!
SQL Diag Configuration Tool (SDCT) is an intuitive, easy to use tool that will read existing sqldiag.xml configuration files, allow you to select your desired options and save those options to a new file.

SSIS Event Handlers Basics

by Additional Articles

SimpleTalk

Integration Services (SSIS)

SSIS event handlers are the simplest means of turning an SSIS script into a reliable system that is auditable, reacts appropriately to error conditions, reports progress and allows instrumentation and monitoring your SSIS packages. They are easy to implement, and provide a great deal of flexibility. Rob Sheldon once again provides the easy, clear introduction.

SQL Server 2008 Installation Issues - Issues and Workarounds

by Robert Pearl

SQLServerCentral.com

SQL Server 2008

MVP Robert Pearl explains how to get around some common issues that might occur when installing SQL Server 2008 on Windows 7.

When To Hire a DBA

by Steve Jones

SQLServerCentral.com

Editorial

When should you hire a DBA? Always, of course! Actually Steve Jones doesn't have an answer, but he does talk about why a DBA can help you.

Check your Digits

by Additional Articles

SimpleTalk

T-SQL

The most persistent struggle in data processing has been to ensure clean data. There are many ways that data can be incorrect and a database must check, as best it can, that the data is correct. The CHECK constraint is ideally suited for this sort of work, and the checking routine can become quite complex when dealing with check digits in data.