If you run it a million times.  In this case here the OP has no 'from' clause so it only executes once.  I actually did read your article a...

A simple Scalar Function will cause the code to take about 7 times longer than either inline code or an iTVF that acts like a scalar function.  Please see...

Micheal,

Unless you're just trying something simple out to learn how to use stored procedures, this should definitely NOT be a stored procedure.  Which is it?  Just a simple example...

In any case, if you use them, you still want to ensure you have a GO after the end of your procedure definition.

For parameters, you can use @area as...

Blake,

I started reading that link.

sp_dropserver <old_name\instancename>;  
GO  
sp_addserver <new_name\instancename>, local;  
GO

I just have a few issues.

1. In the code above, when they say old_name...

I think I see it now.  I created two diagrams.  One to show how I think the System Catalog Views, System Views, System Catalog and System tables are related.

Another one...

Gerard,

I forgot to consider the possibility of reserved words.  Thank you.

It is the login used by the connection to the instance. Renaming computers with SQL installed can require multiple steps to ensure that SQL is "synched" with the name...

Jeff,

I will take a look at the tally function article and see what I can find out.  It is probably above my skill level but eventually I will need to...

sys.all_objects should in fact be the UNION ALL of system objects (sys.system_objects... object_id < 0) and user objects (sys.objects... object_id > 0).

If you are seeing something other than this,...

Jeff,

Thanks for your reply.  The more I read your comments, the more these concepts sink in.  I may not be able to put it into words but by this point,...

OK. Most of the work then is going to be with the structures you're building. It's a good idea to know that there are system views (frequently called tables)...

Jeff,

I spent the last 2 days or so on the first article.  I got about half way through.  I think I understand the concept.  One part I couldn't figure out...

I am a beginner.  Let's say I wanted to view this from the standpoint of somebody who is building databases.

Jeff,

That was a very clear and thorough explanation.  I had to read it twice but I see what you are seeing.  I understand the concept.  Now I just have to...