query re exporting file format

[MaffewW]

hi I was wondering if anyone new about how to go about this

I've received a request to received a file from a client each month (I believe a flat csv file), load it into our sql 2k, do some manipulation and then export it from DTS into "Unix Format"

Now thats the bit I dont get, Unix isnt really a format is it, its an OS? Never done anything with it. I guess they may mean Oracle on Unix, though doesnt that just load flat files also?

They want an answer this morning and I was wondering what questions to ask so I dont look dumb or if the above is possible from SQL or do we need a unix box/Oracle?

thanks for any fast reply, I hope its ok to post this on here

Matt

Brighton, UK

 

[mrdenny]

Unix isn't a file format, it is an operating system. I would assume that they mean a csv file with LF as the end of line character (instead of CRLF which is the Windows standard).

Denny
MCSA (2003) / MCDBA (SQL 2000) / MCTS (SQL 2005) / MCITP Database Administrator (SQL 2005)

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

http://www.mrdenny.com

 

[Alan0568]

I think you need to know a little more before you can discuss this.

1. What exactly is the file format you will receive? You should be able to handle most variant of text or CSV with DTS.

2. As mrdenny says UNIX is an OS and they will be able to handle any (most) text or CSV files (ASCII) you provide using VI, SED, AWK etc

3. Are you just guessing re the import to Oracle? If that’s the case then again they should be able to handle most types of file using SQLLOADER with the appropriate CTL config file.

One last point, getting a working Unix/Oracle box as a temporary solution or for a small portion of a transformation process is like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. Even without the licensing issues it’s a lot of effort particularly if you don't have any experience of Unix/Oracle.

 

[SQLSister]

I do imports and exports from many clients every day. In a case like this where I was unclear about exactly what format they wanted the file, I would contact the client with my questions and work directly with their IT person to get them resolved. LIkely the proble is your requirement has been filtered through two sales people (one for each company) with little or no technical understanding. Of course use your company's formal process to contact (going around people who are supposed to be inthe loop is almost alawys a bad idea for your career), but get permission to talk directly with the person who will be importing the file you send.Explain how thsi will save development time and effort and make you look better to the client than guessing and providing the information the worng way and redoing one or more times.

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