What is the .NET Data Provider?
The IBM DB2 for i .NET data provider (named IBM.Data.DB2.iSeries) allows Windows applications to use the Microsoft .NET Framework to access DB2 for i databases.
What versions of .NET Framework are supported by the .NET Provider?
While the V5R3M0 and V5R4M0 versions of the .NET Provider target the Microsoft 1.0 / 1.1 Framework, they can be used with the 2.0 Framework; however, they cannot take advantage of the 2.0 features. For information about getting started with V5R3M0 or V5R4M0 .NET provider, a handy reference is the
Redbook!
Integrating DB2 for i with Microsoft ADO .NET.
The V6R1M0 .NET Provider requires the Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0, and provides the rich set of features included in the System.Data.Common base class model, allowing ADO.NET applications to implement provider-independent code more easily.
What's new?
The V6R1M0 .NET Provider package includes many enhancements:
- Support for ADO.NET 2.0 base class model, including a provider factory class
- Compatability with both 32-bit and 64-bit applications
- Support for distributed transactions through the System.Transactions namespace
- Enhanced security model through new Permission classes
- Basic integration with Visual Studio 2005 through Server Explorer
- Enhanced CommandBuilder options for improved optimistic update performance
- Many new Connection properties to fine-tune your application's behavior
Where can I find more information?
The IBM DB2 for i .NET Provider Technical Reference includes a full description of its classes and data types, and includes usage notes on many topics. The Technical Reference is part of the System i Access for Windows Programmer's Toolkit, an optionally installed feature of the System i Access for Windows product. Be sure that you have the Programmer's Toolkit component installed on your PC, then find a link to the IBM DB2 for i .NET Provider Technical Reference here:
iSeries Access for Windows > Programmer's Toolkit > Database > .NET Framework Classes
What's the next step?
To ensure you get the most out of the IBM DB2 for i .NET Provider, the most recent System i Access for Windows service pack should be installed.
Download the latest iSeries Access for Windows service pack.
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