Chapter 10, “Data Sources and the Database Expert,” we touched on the concept of personal computer (PC)–type databases versus client/server databases. We will continue this discussion in this chapter so that you may better understand the role that SQL plays in Crystal Reports. SQL is a command syntax used exclusively with relational databases. Some databases support this language; others do not. If a report designer chooses a SQL-capable database, Crystal can use a subset of this language to retrieve data efficiently from SQL-capable databases. To this end, you need to get a good handle on the structure and use of SQL statements and where in Crystal Reports you can make use of this knowledge.
Featured in this chapter:
Choosing client/server databases versus PC-type databases
Understanding Structured Query Language
Using SQL expression fields
Using SQL commands as a data source
Creating stored procedures
Creating views
Using Crystal Reports database utilities