Size limit on SQL on SBS

[uptime]

I have a client that is running their production control software on SQL 6.5 running on SBS 4.0. They are running up against the 1 GB filesize limit of the Small Business Server version of SQL 6.5. I am aware the long term solution is to upgrade their hardware and server OS but in the meantime is there some way to get around the SBS file limit. Is it possible to still buy the full version license to eliminate the limit? If they but an upgrade to 2000 can they get a downgrade license to run on the SQl 6.5? Any suggestion greatly appreciated.

 

[mrdenny]

There is no upgrade license available for SQL Server any more. They would need to purchase full sql 2000 and new cals (or per processor). They would have the right to downgrade to full blown 6.5. This will more than likley require a reinstall of SQL 6.5 (I't been years since I've used 6.5 so I'm working from memory here). You will also have to supply the media your self. Microsoft doesn't give out old media for people who are using downgrade rights.

They may also need a seperate server to install 6.5 on. I'm not sure if full 6.5 will install on an SBS 4 server.

Denny
MCSA (2003) / MCDBA (SQL 2000)

--Anything is possible. All it takes is a little research. (Me)

http://www.mrdenny.com

(My very old site)

 

[Catadmin]

Even if you could get an upgrade from SQL 6.5 to something higher, SQL 2000 doesn't support upgrading directly from 6.5. You'd literally have to "climb the ladder" by installing SQL 7.0 (which definately isn't available) then installing SQL 2000.

SQL 2005 is supposed to be out soon (though heaven only knows if it'll be delayed or not considering I still haven't seen the release date, just the pricing announcement). If it's not a mission critical problem, they might be able to wait, then you might be able to do some fancy footwork importing the data into that. Otherwise, you'll have to see if the 6.5 Standard version is still around anywhere or have them invest in SQL 2000 Standard.

Sorry.



Catadmin - MCDBA, MCSA
"If a person is Microsoft Certified, does that mean that Microsoft pays the bills for the funny white jackets that tie in the back???

 

[uptime]

Thank you both for your time and advice.

They will eventually have to upgrade or replace the software that runs on SQL. Due to the cost of the production control software upgrade, what I think may happen is a new server (hardware/software) will replace the existing one but the production software and SQL will be left on the existing SBS for the time being.

This still leaves me needing to find them a way to "upgrade" to the full blown version of SQL 6.5 wothout the SBS file size limit. I'm still open to suggestions.