The Microsoft SQL Server provider in PADS4 allows you to connect to a SQL Server database, retrieve data, and use it in your presentation.

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Steps to Add or Modify a Microsoft SQL Server Connection

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1. Start the Data Provider Wizard

  • Open PADS4 and go to the Data Provider Wizard.
  • Select Microsoft SQL Server as the provider type.
  • Click Next to continue.

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2. Specify SQL Server Connection Settings

  • Enter the SQL Server Name:
    • Manually type the server name.
    • Click the drop-down button to scan and select an available server on your network.
  • In the Logon to the Server section, choose one of the authentication methods:
    • Windows Authentication (uses the current user’s credentials).
    • SQL Server Authentication (requires a username and password).
  • Click Next to continue.

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3. Select the Database and Data Source

  • Choose the database from the drop-down list.
  • Select the data source:
    • Tables – Retrieve data from a specific table.
    • Views – Use a predefined SQL Server view.
    • Stored Procedures – Execute a stored procedure.
    • SQL Statement – Manually enter a custom SQL query.
  • If using SQL Statement, ensure it is optimized for performance.
  • Click Next to continue.

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4. Complete the Setup

  • Review the connection settings.
  • Click Finish to save the data provider.

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Important Notes

  • SQL Server Authentication:
    • If using Windows Authentication, ensure the PADS4 service has proper permissions.
    • If using SQL Server Authentication, use a secure username and password.
  • Optimizing Queries:
    • Using Views or Stored Procedures is recommended for efficiency.
    • Avoid complex SQL queries in SQL Statements when possible.
  • Performance Considerations:
    • SQL Server is optimized for handling queries internally.
    • Using a PADS4 Data Server may not provide additional benefits.
This setup ensures PADS4 can efficiently retrieve real-time SQL Server data, making it useful for dynamic presentations, dashboards, and automation.