How to move entire MSSQL7 Directory to another drive?

[JohnBeals]

I need to move the entire installation of MS SQL 7 to another drive. It was installed on C:\MSSQL7, and now of course we're out of space on C: drive.

Can I back up the databases, uninstall SQL 7, install SQL 7 on the other drive and then restore the databases?

Thanks,
JB

 

[Vancouverite]

You would find it easier to just move the databases and leave the installation on C:

Use the sp_detach_db and sp_attach_db calls to detach and attach the database files. For example, In Query Analyzer, use:

exec sp_detach_db 'MyDBName'

Then, move the files to their new location (say, D:\MyData)

Then use:
exec sp_attach_db @dbname=N'MyDBName',
@filename1=N'D:\MyData\MyDBName_Data.MDF',
@filename2=N'D:\MyData\MyDBName_Log.LDF'

 

[JohnBeals]

Thanks Vanc,

I realize it would be easier, but not what I'm looking for. I need to physically move the directory structure (or backup, uninstall, reinstall and restore).

I'm looking for pitfalls to this, or the BKM for doing this move.

Thanks,
JB