dotConnect for PostgreSQL Documentation
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    Overview
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    dotConnect for PostgreSQL, formerly known as PostgreSQLDirect .NET, is an enhanced data provider for PostgreSQL that builds on ADO.NET technology to present a complete solution for developing PostgreSQL-based database applications. As part of the Devart database application development framework, dotConnect for PostgreSQL offers both high performance native connectivity to the PostgreSQL database and a number of innovative development tools and technologies. dotConnect for PostgreSQL introduces new approaches for designing application architecture, boosts productivity, and leverages database application implementation.

    dotConnect for PostgreSQL is a scalable data access solution developed with wide adaptability in mind. It can be successfully used in WinForms, ASP.NET, two-tier, multi-tier applications; within the ASP.NET Provider Model; in conjunction with the Enterprise Library; under .NET Compact Framework, Mono Framework and so on. Depending on the edition you choose, dotConnect for PostgreSQL can be used as a powerful ADO.NET data provider, or an effective application development framework.

    dotConnect for PostgreSQL is actively developed and supported by the Devart. If you have questions about dotConnect for PostgreSQL, email the developers at [email protected] or visit dotConnect for PostgreSQL online at https://www.devart.com/dotconnect/postgresql/.

    Advantages of dotConnect for PostgreSQL

    Wide Coverage of PostgreSQL Features

    By providing access to the most advanced database functionality, dotConnect for PostgreSQL allows developers to harness the full capabilities of the PostgreSQL server and optimize their database applications. dotConnect for PostgreSQL stands out as the set of components with the widest support of PostgreSQL functionality. Get a full list of supported PostgreSQL features in the Features topic.

    Optimized Code

    The goal of dotConnect for PostgreSQL is to enable developers to write efficient and flexible database applications. The dotConnect for PostgreSQL assemblies are implemented using optimized code and advanced data access algorithms. Components undergo comprehensive performance tests and are designed to help you write thin and efficient product data access layers.

    Comprehensive Support for ADO.NET Technology Features

    dotConnect for PostgreSQL supports new ADO.NET features and technologies as soon as they are released. This includes base-class-based provider model, provider factories, connection string builder, metadata schemas, asynchronous commands, pooling enhancements, batch update support, provider-specific types, server enumeration, database change notification support and so on. dotConnect for PostgreSQL will continue supporting the newest standards and innovations of the .NET Framework.

    Database Application Development Extensions

    dotConnect for PostgreSQL has rich set of design time tools that leverage the development process greatly. Particularly, there are convenient design time component editors, wizards and managers for typed PostgreSQL-specific components, toolset for live data binding and much more. dotConnect for PostgreSQL integrates tightly with Visual Studio 2008 - 2022, Delphi, and SQL Server 2008 - 2023 Business Intelligence Solutions.

    Provider-Specific Technologies

    dotConnect for PostgreSQL has extra components designed to simplify some tasks and support PostgreSQL-specific technologies. Particularly, PgSqlScript serves to execute series of SQL statements, PgSqlLoader serves to load external data into PostgreSQL databases, and PgSqlDump serves to backup or restore a whole database or its parts.

    ADO.NET Entity Framework Support

    ADO.NET Entity Framework is a conceptual approach to database application development with focus on objects instead of relational data. The flexible architecture of Entity Framework is made up of well-thought layers and modules. Entity Framework optimizes the development process with object-relational mapping, SQL-based entity query language, and LINQ. Entity Framework Core is a new, modernised and rewritten version of Entity Framework.

    dotConnect for PostgreSQL fully supports the Entity Framework capabilities, which allows you to base your object-oriented applications on PostgreSQL. dotConnect for PostgreSQL includes a wizard that helps you setup model relations, and a set of demos to use as a starting point. All standard Entity Framework samples can be easily ported to dotConnect for PostgreSQL. dotConnect for PostgreSQL supports both Entity Framework and Entity Framework Core.

    LinqConnect Support

    Much like Entity Framework, LinqConnect is an entity-oriented data access technology with focus on objects instead of relational data. LinqConnect is easier to start with, it supports more of server features, and adds less complications to your code. LinqConnect is backed up by Entity Developer to visually design the application entity model and database objects.

    Both Connected and Disconnected Models

    dotConnect for PostgreSQL combines connected and disconnected data access models in single PgSqlDataTable component, which allows you to design more flexible application architecture and use full power of data binding.

    Development and Support

    dotConnect for PostgreSQL is a PostgreSQL connectivity solution that has been actively developed and supported since 2003. dotConnect for PostgreSQL comes with full documentation, demo projects, and fast (usually within one business day) technical support by the dotConnect for PostgreSQL development team. Find out more about how to get help or submit feedback and suggestions in the Getting Support topic.

    A description of the dotConnect for PostgreSQL components is provided in the Class and Component List.

    Key features

    For the detailed list of dotConnect for PostgreSQL features refer to the Features topic.