Sql Server: Cannot insert an explicit value into a timestamp column

sql

data-types

datetime

timestamp

byAnton Shumikhin·Nov 15, 2024

The TIMESTAMP data type in SQL Server is a system data type, not designed for storing date or time values. If you're looking for row versioning, ROWVERSION—equivalent to TIMESTAMP—is the right choice. For actual time data, use DATETIME or DATETIME2 with a DEFAULT constraint for time stamping:

-- For Dragons who can't tell time, SQL Server has got you covered. 🐉
CREATE TABLE YourTable (
    ID int NOT NULL PRIMARY KEY,
    SomeData nvarchar(50),
    CreatedAt DATETIME2 DEFAULT SYSUTCDATETIME()
);

Need any ROWVERSION? No problem:

-- Because who needs to manually keep track of versions? That's so 2005. 🕰️
CREATE TABLE YourTable (
    ID int NOT NULL PRIMARY KEY,
    SomeData nvarchar(50),
    RowVersion ROWVERSION
);

Remember, let ROWVERSION column auto-magically update on any insert/update, no user intervention required.

Timestamp: The Cinderella's shoe of SQL Server

The TIMESTAMP data type is SQL Server's Cinderella's shoe—it's unique for every row. It's just not meant for date or time values. For that, you've DATETIME2 with greater precision and range.

Dealing with datetime

Use DATETIME2 for storing your application timestamps. But be cautious with converting from TIMESTAMP to preserve data integrity.

High-level data scenarios

If your data integrity needs are exceptionally high or you are dealing with system-generated data, consider binary(8) or varbinary(8). However, this sacrifices simplicity, so evaluate properly.

Advice for the seasoned coder

When copying or moving data, always exempt the TIMESTAMP or ROWVERSION from your SELECT list. In scenarios involving data movement, ensure all system-generated columns are treated as metadata and not as insertable data points.

A word of warning

If legacy constraints force you to transform a TIMESTAMP to a DATETIME, know the resulting value is as meaningful as a snowmobile in the Sahara. Be cautious and keep such conversions to a minimum.

Ready for the switch?

If your table is plagued with an epidemic of TIMESTAMP and you're considering a switch to more accurate data types, you're in for a bit of schema migration. Handle changes with careful data management practices to prevent data loss or corruption.

Visualization

The timestamp column is like an internal clock within SQL Server:

Imagine: [🕒 SQL Server's internal clock]

But you can't manually set a timestamp column:

Your value [🕰️ 10:30] -> [🕒❌]
# The clock has a mind of its own!

So remember:

Allowed: [⏳ Auto-Generated Timestamp]
Denied:  [🕰️ Manually-Set Timestamp]

Think of timestamps in SQL Server like a self-driving car:

Self-driving Car: [🚗💨🚫👨‍🔧]
// You just enjoy the ride, the car knows its way!

explain-codes / Sql / Sql Server: Cannot insert an explicit value into a timestamp column

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