Microsoft finalises SQL Server 2008 code

Microsoft said on Wednesday that it has finished work on SQL Server 2008, the latest version of its database software.

The software maker said in a statement that it has reached the 'release to manufacturing' stage, meaning that the company has finalised the code for the software.

Although SQL Server 2008 has been delayed, Microsoft said it was able to meet its goal of having a new version within 24 to 36 months from the release of SQL Server 2005.

SQL Server 2008 comes in a number of editions, ranging from the free SQL Server 2008 Express to SQL Server 2008 Enterprise. Other editions include Standard, Workgroup, Developer, Web, and Compact, which runs on both PCs and Windows Mobile devices.

Pricing is comparable to that of SQL Server 2005. One edition, the Web version, is new. Microsoft vice president Ted Kummert said in a conference call that hosting customers had complained of not having a version that met their needs, in terms of features and pricing, and that the Web edition was an attempt to meet those needs.

"We nailed it, and that just feels so good," said Dan Jones, a member of the product's engineering team. "This is such a great day. The sun is shining in Redmond."

The release is important for Microsoft, as the database product has been a strong performer in the company's financial results for many quarters, helping the company gain ground against rivals.

Kummert declined to give a specific target, in either units or dollars, by which Microsoft will measure SQL Server 2008's success, but he said the company hopes to continue the growth it has seen with the prior version of the database software.

"We expect SQL Server 2008 to continue the growth trajectory," Kummert said. "We are focused on winning with customers of all sizes."
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