Press Information:
Jesse Theodore, Esri
Tel.: 909-793-2853, extension 1-1419
E-mail (press only): press@Esri.com

SDE Now Available for Microsoft SQL Server

New Release Makes Universal Spatial Server More Accessible

Redlands, California--Esri, the world leader in geographic information system (GIS) and mapping software, announced today the first release of Spatial Database Engine (SDE) for Microsoft SQL Server. Workgroup SDE Version 3.0.1 for Microsoft SQL Server is a special bundle of server and client connection licenses.

SDE, a middle-tier application server, is a core component of Esri's three-tier product architecture for an enterprise GIS. When matched with appropriate client software, SDE provides a single common interface between the user and the diverse collection of geographic data that exists within the organization, enabling geographic data to be delivered to any client from both file and database management system (DBMS) based sources, over an organization's network.

SDE allows organizations to realize the benefits of central DBMS management of spatial data such as multilevel security, backup recovery, and failover handling. Workgroup SDE for Microsoft SQL Server works with the DBMS to give users open, standards-based, distributed, multiuser spatial data management capabilities. SDE extends the number of users that can be supported with traditional NFS file mounting and provides faster query response as compared to a large traditional tiled GIS database. SDE provides a single reference point for client applications to access numerous data types. SDE stores and manages all types of spatial data within a common framework or spatial data repository. This includes GIS, CAD, and image data with Geographic Business Systems' Image Engine software. According to John Baleja, SDE product manager, SDE lowers the cost associated with managing geographic data by simplifying database design, administration, and geographic data distribution.

"Esri is the only organization that provides a single solution for geographic data management across each major commercial DBMS platform," says Baleja. "We will continue to evolve with the DBMS industry. Organizations using SDE are assured their investment will remain in synch with the rest of their IS infrastructure."

The client/server architecture of SDE allows for access by multiple client applications. Esri features a number of mapping and GIS clients such as ArcInfo, ArcView GIS, ArcExplorer, MapObjects, and SDE CAD Client. In addition, a growing number of third party client application software is becoming available.

SDE is bundled with ArcView GIS for Windows and a MapObjects developers license. ArcView GIS is a ready-to-use mapping client, while MapObjects is a collection of mapping and GIS components for Windows application developers.

Availability
Workgroup SDE Version 3.0.1 for Microsoft SQL Server is now shipping. For more information or to order SDE, please call Esri at 1-800-447-9778 or contact your local Esri office or international distributor.