How to Set Up the Sample Environment

The sample environment consists of three parts:

1 - SharpDevelop Reports for .NET (SDR)

2 - SQL Server Express 2005 with SP2

First, navigate to http://msdn.microsoft.com/vstudio/express/sql/download/. This is the location where you can download SQL Server Express 2005 SP2 or SQL Server Express 2005 SP2 with Advanced Features.

Choose your preferred option and download the file to your local computer.

2.1 - SQL Server Express 2005 SP2

When download has finished, run the executable.

2.2 - SQL Server Express 2005 SP2 with Advanced Features

2.2.1 - Windows XP Pro

2.2.2 - Windows Vista

To run SQL Server Express 2005 SP2 with Advanced Features on Windows Vista, Internet Information Services are required. Due to the "secure by default" approach, IIS are not installed by default after Windows Vista installation. IIS needs to be installed by running "Turn Windows Features on or off" in the "Programs" sections of the control panel. The options being checked in the screenshot below mark the minimum requirements for SQL Server Express 2005 SP2 width Advanced Features:

3 - Northwind Sample Database