Recovering SQLserver Master.dat

[kay]

We have recently upgraded our system memory from 128MB to 512MB. After this upgrade the Mssqlserver service won't start. On the same day we had multiple Power outages too.<br>
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We have tried changing the memory allocation to what it was previously, but it still won't start under normal circumstances.<br>
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On further evaluation, when pointing the registry key to an old MASTER.DAT file the services start fine. Which has left to think the Master.Dat file is corrupt.<br>
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There is a whole lot work hanging on this. If there is anyone out there you knows how to revive this situation please let us know. If it means starting from scratch, is it possible to use the DAT files in order to build new devices and if so how?<br>
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[calahans]

Hi Kay,<br>
<br>
While I've never had the problem you're having (thank heaven!) we had a similar situation, i.e. wanting to create a new device to point to an old dat file. We moved our .dat file to a safe place. Next we created an empty .dat file, with the same name & size in its place. Finally we deleted the new file and brought the old file back in its place.<br>
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I must point out this was on version 6.5.<br>
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Also look up tech-net and the microsoft site, there are normally loads of articles re master defvice trouble.<br>
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Hope this helps.<br>
<br>
C

 

[kay]

Thanks calahans!!<br>
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We, are using version 6.5 too.<br>
We have tried what you suggested, but as soon as we put the old .dat file back it shows an empty database file (and this was done using the old MASTER.DAT file).<br>
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We assume you deleted and copied files using the explorer.<br>
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I guess the question now is, can we call or point to this .dat files during or after rebuilding the MASTER.DAT?<br>
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If there are other suggestions please do forward them.<br>
<br>
kay