ASP.NET 3.5 For Dummies®

Chapter 8. Using LINQ to SQL and the LinqDataSource

In This Chapter

• Using the object relational designer

• Filtering data in LinqDataSource

• Understanding LINQ to SQL syntax

• Grouping and displaying hierarchical data

• Updating and inserting with DataContext

• Creating a user interface with the ListView control

In Chapters 3 and 4, I show you how to build a database and an ASP.NET page to carry out basic CRUD functions (Create, Retrieve, Update, and Delete). This chapter takes Rapid Action Development (RAD) to a further level by using the Microsoft LINQ to SQL technology and the LinqDataSource control.

In LINQ to SQL, the object relational designer analyzes an ordinary SQL Server database and presents the data tables and stored procedures to code as objects. Visual Web Developer has a good understanding of what goes into objects, including properties, collections, and methods. With its knowledge of objects, Visual Web Developer can help with the syntax while you write code and warn you of problems at design-time.