In Sql 2008 (Katmai), a couple of the 'smaller' features that are currently in the latest CTP include inline variable initialization and compound assignment (something you App Dev folks have had for years). So, the following types of code now work in Sql 2008:
declare @d datetime = getdate(),
@i int = 1,
@s varchar(100) = 'test';
-- Show the values...
select @d, @i, @s
-- Increment i, append to s...
select @i += 1, @s += 'ing';
-- Show the new values...
select @i, @s;
These operators also work inline with DML statements and columns...for example, a simple UPDATE statement in a table called 'testTable' with a column called 'testColumn' where you wanted to increment the value of testColumn by 1 could be:
update testTable set testColumn += 1;
Also would work with other columns...if another column called testColumn2 existed:
update testTable set testColumn += testColumn2;
I'll be posting other tidbits in Sql 2008 ongoing...enjoy!
Chad Boyd
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About Chad Boyd
Chad is an Architect, Administrator, and Developer with technologies such as Sql Server (and all related technologies), Windows Server, and Windows Clustering. He currently works as an independent consultant and also spends a significant amount of time writing, talking, presenting and blogging about Sql Server in person and online at http://mssqltips.com. In the past, Chad has worked with companies and organizations such as Microsoft Corporation and The American Red Cross, and provided consulting/support services at companies such as Bank of America, HP, Citigroup, Qualcomm, Scottrade, TJX, SunTrust, and Zurich Financial Services. For over 3 years with Microsoft Corporation Chad was responsible for providing onsite and remote support, guidance, and advice with SQL Server products to some of Microsoft’s foremost enterprise customers running the largest, most complex SQL Server installations and configurations in the world. This included all SQL Server products and versions, including SQL Server 7.0, 2000, 2005, and recently 2008, the SQL Server database engine, Reporting Services, SSIS/DTS, Notification Services, and Analysis Services on both 32 and 64 bit systems. Chad's primary responsibilities today include troubleshooting critical server situations, performance tuning and monitoring, disaster recovery planning and execution, architectural guidance for new Sql Server related deployments, and delivering deep technical workshops/presentations/proof-of-concept sessions covering a variety of technologies and functionality. Chad regularly posts Sql Server related content, tools, and advice with the mssqltips team at http://blogs.mssqltips.com/blogs and http://mssqltips.com. Chad can be contacted via his blog or email at chad dot boyd dot tips at gmail dot com.
