Using SQL Profiler to create a trace file over several days.

Question

I'd like to create a single trace file using SQL Profiler that spans several days so I can run it through DTA to get some advice on indexes. My issue is that I would be doing this on my laptop, which i shutdown and take home everynight, so i can't just pause it when i leave and start it when i get back. Also the server is taken down everynight.

Is there a way to concatenate trace files or start a new trace in the morning that writes to the end of the last trace file? Alternatively could i pass multiple trace files to DTA?

Answer 1

In Profiler, use the "Script Trace" option, and then create the trace on the server. You can stop it in a few days' time and query it to your heart's content. It's actually less impact on the server, because it doesn't have to handle talking to the UI on your system.