New windows mobile project - LINQ to data in .NET CF?

Question

I have to convert a project I wrote a while back in MCL to windows mobile using CF 3.5. I am using Visual Basic and VS 2008. There is not much info out there, and much of what is, is in C#. I am working my way through that right now.

What is the best way for data access? I am used to using LINQ to SQL, but that does not seem to be a option. I need to be able to do searches for data that meet criteria, normal CRUD operations, etc.

I have spent days researching this and have come across so much conflicting data! This project needs to be finished in the next 3 weeks or so. I am pretty pressured right about now.

All your thoughts are sincerely appreciated!

--Joe

Answer 1

Well, a question like "what is the best way for data access" is rather vague. You may want to be a bit more specific on your needs and especially what database you intend to use or whether tat is still open.

Having said that, SqlCE with typed or untyped Datasets and/or direct Commands is solidly supported. There are also options to hook that into the sync framework.

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To add a little more info, there is a SqlCeResultset that is more efficient (memory wise) than a regular Dataset. Make sure to investigate that option.

In short: create a normal typed dataset first, then find the properties of the XSD file and change Custom_Tool to MSResultSetGenerator

Concerning the uploading, forget RDA. Take a look at the Patterns&Practices Disconnected Service Agent or the Sync Services for ADO.NET