Can I locally store the SQL schema when using F# TypeProviders?

Data and Databases
1

I’m utilizing the FSharp.Data.SqlClient type providers for my SQL interactions in F#. With other providers such as those handling JSON or YAML, I can locally save a sample to define the data structure. Is there a method to similarly cache the SQL schema locally, even if it requires regenerating it each time the database layout changes?

2

so far i havent found a way to cache the sql schema locally with fsharp.data.sqlclient. its built to always go live with the database. maybe someone has a hack, but i usually just update the type provider whenever i change the db.

3

Based on experience, F# SQL type providers are designed to dynamically fetch the schema to reflect the current state of the database rather than support local caching. Developing a mechanism to store and update a local snapshot of the schema introduces additional maintenance overhead and potential synchronization issues. In practice, managing schema changes using automated version control and robust testing has been a more effective workflow. Although the idea of caching seems convenient, the built-in design of the provider necessitates an approach that embraces live connectivity to ensure data accuracy.

4

hmm im curious if anyone tried caching the schema via a custom script? i wonder if playing with codegen might offer a workaround, even with diff sync issues poss. anyone encountered similar challenges or found clever hacks for tuning this process?

5

i dont think there is a built in method. you could write a script to dump the schema, but it’s a bit hacky and prone to sync issues when db changes. live updates seem to be the intended approach.

6

In my experience working with F# SQL type providers, I have not found native support for local schema caching similar to JSON type providers. A workable approach has been to export the schema as a reference file and then compare it against the live database for changes. This method allows you to detect updates before running your application, although it requires manual steps or custom tooling for consistency. While not as seamless, it provides a degree of version control that can help avoid unexpected runtime issues when the database structure changes.