I also prefer to use other layer of database abstraction instead of relying to the generated LinqToSQL. However, I have more fun using VS2008 just for the C# language feature: > automatic property > lambda function > anonymous type and anonymous function > Linq to IEnumerable > Variable type infer > and many more. It save key stroke and make the code more concise. VS2008 also allow targeting .NET 2.0. So, we should have no problem to maintain existing codebase targeting .NET 2.0. Since all .NET 2.0, 3.0, and 3.5 still using the same CLR engine for 2.0, I can still use all .NET 3.5 specific like LinqToSQL or LinqToXML in .NET20SP1 machine, provided all the necessary dll is copied along. So, 'Go' with VS2008 SP1.

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>>Just don't expect to make friends with any DBAs after you start advocating for it I cannot disagree more. :-D. I have to learn more communication skill in order to persuade them. Currently I am comfortable trying Developer Express' Express Persistence Framework (XPO). Of course, there is a leaning curve, however, when I think about the code maintainability (even for small program), OOP-friendly, DB platform neutrality, etc... it is worth it. Now, even if I have to NOT to use an ORM, I will write my own simple "ORM" (to handle simple select and update) classes (eg: in a portable device programming where some ORM framework might be too overkill).

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I prefer GetValue() in .NET too. However, if I am trying to port getter/setter methods written in Java to .NET, it is better for me to write them in property syntax. eg (C#): private int value; /// /// Get and set the value /// public int Value { get { return value; } set { if (this.value != value) this.value = value); } } You can refer MS website regarding. http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/ms229002(VS.80).aspx[^] :)

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Very funny... :laugh: I used SQLite too, but I will take a look at FireBird.NEt too.

I like you, and I love programming more.