Email into SQL

Question

Email into SQL

Lee Taylor-302175

Newbie

Points: 3
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February 14, 2006 at 11:22 am

#68646

Hi
I am developing an online IT HELPDESK and would like to add the function where USERS can email a certain email address and this email is then parsed into the relevant fields within a SQL database.
I am using Exchange 2000, Outlook 2003 and SQL 2000.
Could anyone offer any assistance or direct me in the right direction.
Many Thanks
Lee

Viewing 7 posts - 1 through 6 (of 6 total)

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David le Quesne SSCertifiable Points: 5229 More actions · Answer 1

Hi,

Have a look at the sp_processmail procedure in the master database. This examines an inbox and executes the SQL query sent in the email, returning the results as an attachment. I wouldn't use this procedure as it stands, too much risk of SQL Injection attacks, but you can use the techniques in it to scan and process the contents of an email.

I created a renamed copy of it in my own database, and parsed the @subject variable for instructions on what to do with the contents of the email. Then I set up a scheduled job running every five minutes to call the stored procedure

David

If it ain't broke, don't fix it...

Steve Jones - SSC Editor SSC Guru Points: 736254 More actions · Answer 2

I agree, this is not recommended. I'd rather have you use VBScript to read some Outlook mailbox on another machine and then do an insert into SQL Server.

Lee Taylor-302175 Newbie Points: 3 More actions · Answer 3

That's the route I was thinking, just not sure where to start?!?!

Any ideas or pointers?

Lee

bledu SSChampion Points: 12335 More actions · Answer 4

Instead of email why not just put the [enter problem] page on the website, since you said it is online. and have that page insert into the database.

it seems like that is what you want to do in the end anyway.

solution from mars:

you would then have an email auto sent from the database to the help desk administrator to alert him/her of a new problem

Everything you can imagine is real.

Lee Taylor-302175 Newbie Points: 3 More actions · Answer 5

That's the main option which is available, but we also offer email and telephone call logging.

This is particular handy for our blackberry users.

Thanks

Lee

bledu SSChampion Points: 12335 More actions · Answer 6

in that case i would advise the solution suggested by Steve

Everything you can imagine is real.