Where can I get a large Sql Server sample database?

Question

Hi,

I was wondering if it is possible to get a large, enterprise-scale sample Sql Server database? I am working with Sql Server 2005, and feel that looking at a large scale database would really improve my database design skills. I'm aware of, and have checked Nortwind and AdventureWorks, but these aren't large enough.

Also, when working in Sql Server's diagram design view, is it possible to type in a name of a table and then go to wherever it is in the diagram? I have a nicely laid out schema of 300+ tables, but despite the nice organisation, it is not easy to find a specific table.

Thanks

Answer 1

The Northwind database was common With SQL Server 2000. I think they released a new one for SQL Server 2005, but I don't remember the name right now. SQL Server 2005 should be able to open Northwind, anyway: it's just that Northwind won't exercise 2005's new features.

You might also try this page.

Answer 2

Red Gate makes a Data Generator for SQL Server. It's capable of generating millions of rows across multiple tables.

Answer 3

What I'm ideally looking for is a database sample which uses all Sql Server features - maintenance plans, service broker, etc, so I can deduce good design practises from it.

I guess the first link is my best bet.

Thanks guys

Answer 4

I asked a similar question a while ago. Check out the answers to my questions, and you should be able to find some good data. A lot of the data was in CSV format, but that is easily importable into SQL Server.

Answer 5

I don't actually need a database that is large in the sense of the amount of data/rows, but rather in terms of tables/entities and other objects such as maintenance plans, etc.

The above and similar links on codeplex and msdn do have databases which meet this need and are a start.

Any other links/suggestions are appreciated! :)