Mapping existing tables to Domain classes in C#

Question

Hi, I don't even know if I'm using the correct terms but here goes:

Is there a way to map the tables and their relations in a SQL Server to domain (C# code) automatically, by means of a tool or something?

I've used the nhibernate plugin, but it creates a file in .cs and another in xml, that has the mapping, but I want that mapping to be present as "property" in the .cs file.

Sorry if this is a bit confusing.

Answer 1

You could always use the Entity Framework or maybe Linq2SQL, but I'm not familiar with how that works.

Tho, out of EF and NHibernate, I prefer NHibernate.

Answer 2

Use LLBLgen of Linq 2 Sql (available in VS 2008). Or use Entity Framework (in VS 2008 SP1). Linq 2 sql allows you to drag and drop a table from sql server to the canvas and it creates a domain class for you with properties mapped to columns.

Answer 3

Take a look at Fluent NHibernate and see if that is what you are looking for: http://blog.jagregory.com/2008/08/08/introducing-fluent-nhibernate/

Answer 4

You can use Castle ActiveRecord which uses attributes.

Answer 5

I think you should read a bit about Linq to Sql

http://searchwindevelopment.techtarget.com/tip/0,289483,sid8_gci1269859,00.html#

Answer 6

So many answers in such a short time, thanks for the help, I'll go check them now.

Answer 7

Check out SubSonic. It will generate your DAL and can also generates code off of custom templates.

Answer 8

Check out nHibernate nhforge.org