April 15, 2011 at 10:29 am
We have a SQL Server 2000 instance on a machine whose hard drive died. The databases on this server have their files stored on another machine. The databases were not backed up and the databases were not detached before the server machine's drive failed. Is there any way to retrieve these databases using the raw MDF and LDF files where the databases were not previously detached? I considered trying to 'slip in' those files into a new database I created with the same name on another machine, but when I tried to copy the raw files Iget an OS error that they are in use and cannot be copied.
We don't have a DBA now, and though I know my way around SQL Server, I don't have an expert to rely on. Any assistance would be tremendously appreciated!!
Elliot
April 15, 2011 at 10:40 am
If the files are not corrupted, then yes you may attach them to another SQL instance.
The reason why the OS says they are in used is because you have SQL server running and using those files.
Stop SQL Server on both of the affected computers, then copy them.
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April 15, 2011 at 10:43 am
You should simply be able to attach them. No need for convoluted tricks unless there's damage of some form.
If they won't simply attach, post the errors.
Gail Shaw
Microsoft Certified Master: SQL Server, MVP, M.Sc (Comp Sci)
SQL In The Wild: Discussions on DB performance with occasional diversions into recoverability
April 15, 2011 at 2:39 pm
Thank you both for your prompt assistance, and both comments have been very helpful and did the trick. I didn't realize at first but I did have a SQL Server instance that pointed to these database files that caused the inability to copy the raw files - thanks Ysaias!
And thanks Gail! Once I fixed the above issue, the db files did attach to a database on a new instance without error.
I'm a first time poster to this forum - terrific!
Elliot
April 16, 2011 at 12:40 am
Great. Now go put a backup strategy in place.
Gail Shaw
Microsoft Certified Master: SQL Server, MVP, M.Sc (Comp Sci)
SQL In The Wild: Discussions on DB performance with occasional diversions into recoverability
April 18, 2011 at 8:32 am
Absolutely. I'm doing so as we speak ...
Thanks again!
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