SQL Server and Access Syntax Differences

Introduction

HighStone uses the SQL Language for all data access to the supporting Database System - both to recall data and save / update records held in the database.  Whilst the syntax for SQL is reasonably standard across different implementations, there are a number of crucial differences between different environments.  HighStone maintains a standard approach to these differences so that the same Program Implementation will operate across all supported environments without the need to make any revisions to definitions.

The following approach is taken by HighStone:

• HighStone always knows which target Database Environment it is operating under.  This is defined in the System Control file HighStoneSystem.ini and this is read as the application is started.

• Differences in use of Constants values (typically True / False) are always defined in HighStone using protected names, such as <TRUE>, <FALSE>, and these are substituted to the relevant values when required.

• Differences in syntax (such as Dates, use of GUIDs) are also substituted to the relevant format when required.

• Syntax for SQL is defined in a form that has the widest acceptance across the supported Database Environments.  Typically (but not always) SQL Server is the prime target in defining this approach.