Specifying a Generic Data Source Import Table

The Specify Data to Import dialog box enables you to select a source table from which to import data and to specify a SQL statement to limit imported records to specific criteria.

You can also provide a unique record identifier for each imported item. The benefits of selecting a unique numeric identifier include:

• Ordering of source records – When the wizard queries the source database, it uses field for ordering, which provides greater control and allows for more organized log files.

• Improved logging – A unique identifier enables the wizard to log detailed information about source and imported items. For example, newly imported items are logged similar to the following example:

  Source record 1 established as new TS_ID 60

  Updated items are recorded similar to the following example:

  Source record 1 already imported as TS_ID 60 -- updated

  For details on Import Data Wizard logging, refer to Import Data Log Information.

The following options are available on the Specify Data to Import dialog box:

• Source Table – This drop-down list contains all tables and views in the source database that are accessible to the login ID specified when you connect to the database. Select the table that contains the data you want to import. You must specify a source table before continuing with the data import.

• Select Records from Source Table Where: To limit the records you want to import from the source table, enter an SQL (Structured Query Language) conditional expression that matches the records to import. Consult your database documentation for details. If you do specify an SQL conditional expression, all records from the source table are imported.

• Record Matching Options - You can specify a unique numeric or text identifier column for records in the source database. This enables you to update items previously imported from another database or to update existing items on an initial import of items from a source database or spreadsheet. Select one of the following options:
  • Numeric: Select this option to specify a unique numeric identifier in the source database that can be used to create cross-reference records when data is imported. This enables you to later update information in the records on subsequent imports of the same option set. When you use a numeric identifier, only new records in the source database are imported to the destination database on the first import; on subsequent imports, those records are updated with new or modified data from the source database.
  • Character: Select this option to specify a unique text identifier in the source database. This identifier must contain unique and populated values. This enables you to update existing and add new records during import. This option may impact the wizard's performance and should only be used if you need to update existing records on the initial import.
    • Fail import, when duplicate character identifiers are detected: Select this check box to stop the import if an identifier with a duplicate value is found. Otherwise, the import continues and warnings are added to the log file.
  • Your Unique Identifier Column – This drop-down list contains valid fields from your source database table based on your numeric or character selection. Select a field from the list that provides unique identifiers for records in the source database.
    CAUTION:
    Make sure the field you select provides unique identifiers. If not you risk updating imported records with data from multiple source records.

After specifying source table import information, click Next to continue.