Re: identity columns ?

Harald, Chris,

> > 1. M$ SQL Server has an identity column which generates a
> sequential number
> > for you, we use this often for unique primary keys. Does postgres
> support
> > anything like this ?
>
> select *,oid from your_table

NO!!!! This is wrong. DO NOT USE the oid for anything other than
system purposes. It is NOT a user-friendly value for several reasons.

Chris, the data type you want is SERIAL. Please read the section of
the docs on sequences:
http://www.postgresql.org/idocs/index.php?sql-createsequence.html
... as the SERIAL datatype simply automates the creation of a sequence.
BTW, postgres sequences are both more powerful and more user-friendly
than MS SQL Identity columns.

I would also strongly suggest buying a beginner's postgresql book, such
as "PostgreSQL: Introduction and Concepts" or Wrox Press' PostgreSQL
book.

-Josh Berkus