Creating Devices in SQL is Slow with Removable Media Installed (158736)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft SQL Server 6.0
  • Microsoft SQL Server 6.5
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 3.5
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 3.51
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4.0
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server 3.5
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server 3.51
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server 4.0

This article was previously published under Q158736

SYMPTOMS

When creating a new device in an application, such as SQL Enterprise Manager (SEM), it may take several minutes to display the dialog box with the current available devices and/or may possibly time out.

CAUSE

If the computer has removable media, such as a removable floppy disk drive, and it is not connected at the time the new device is being created, the system times out when polling for available devices.

SQL Server makes a Win32 API call to GetDiskFreeSpace, which can take an extended period of time to determine if the media is currently loaded. Any other application that makes a call to GetDiskFreeSpace may experience the same behavior.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this problem, perform one of the following:
  • Before creating the device, re-connect the removable media, such as a removable floppy disk drive or a zip drive.
-or-

  • If you are running SEM, you can increase the Query Timeout value by clicking the Tools Menu, then clicking Preferences, and then configure then the Connection tab.

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:12/5/2003
Keywords:kbnetwork kbprb KB158736