SQL Inline Macro

[sammye]

Is there such a thing as an inline macro within sql? I am not sure I am using the right terminology, but below is what I am looking for:

MACRO myRemoteTableMacro "OPENDATASOURCE('SQLNCLI','Data Source=myRemoteSvr;Integrated Security=SSPI').myDb.dbo"

select * from myRemoteTableMacro.table1

The problem is that I have a bunch of queries I am running to import data from a remote sql server into my own db and I would like not to have to repeat the connection string repeatedly for clarity's sake.

Does this exist? If there's a better way of going about this, I'm more than willing to change routes. Thanks.

 

[SQLSister]

Suggest you read about linked servers in Books online

"NOTHING is more important in a database than integrity." ESquared

 

[sammye]

It sounds like a good idea, but I gave it a try and could not get it to work. I am uncertain if the problem is due to how I am configuring the linked server within Management Studio Express or the fact that they are currently running SP1 and may not have a fix installed that is related - though I am not sure it applies in my case:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/925001

I use windows authentication to connect directly to the server so within the Security section of the linked server setup I checked "be made using the login's current security contect". Does this sound right? The connection properties shows "windows authentication" and my nt login which seems ok.

Unfortunately I do not have any say as to the remote server's config, so it is a little difficult to troubleshoot their side. Any ideas?

Otherwise, isn't there some type of an inline macro feature within sql? Thanks.