How to delete SDE database in SQL server

Question

Based on SQL Server multiple spatial database model, I created SDE database (storing ArcSDE repository) using post installation setup. Afterwards, I did not create any other database for storing user defined spatial data.

Now I want to create another geodatabase based on SQL Server single spatial database model. This can be done by running post installation setup.

I would like to delete already created SDE database completely (based on SQL server multiple spatial database model and storing ArcSDE repository), but can�??t find any information. One idea is to delete it directly from database list using Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio, but not sure is it proper way.

I am using Micrsoft SQL Server 2005 and ArcGIS Server Enterprise 9.3

VinceAngelo · Answer

There is usually more than one way to accompish any task.  If you detach, you can toss 
the files into an archive / burn them to DVD before deletion, for the times when the answer 
to the question "Are you sure you want to delete?" Is "Yes, oops no - #%@^!"

- V

ducksunlimited · Answer

Before deleting the database, delete the ArcSDE service it serves.  This should
be as simple as stopping the service and using 'sdeservice -o delete -i esri_sde'.

Once the service is gone, you can just detach the database and delete the datafiles.

- V

Can I just delete the sde database directly by right clicking the database, then delete? what's the difference from detaching the database then deleting the datafiles? thanks,

DavidWheelock · Answer

Works for me, too.

David Wheelock Application Specialist      david@oda.state.ok.us

Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry 
2800 North Lincoln Boulevard 
Oklahoma City, OK 73105-4298 
Phone: (405) 522-5477 FAX: (405) 522-3590 
http://www.oda.state.ok.us 
  
"We are usually convinced more easily by reasons we have found ourselves, 
than by those which have occurred to others." 
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