Yesterday, we started a journey of knowledge refresh with the SQL Nexus tool available from CodePlex.  Before we begin, it should be noted that this tool has not yet been updated to include SQL 2012, sorry, but it does cover databases from 2000 through 2008 R2.  For clarification purposes, it does require at least the SQL Server 2005 database engine but will analyze SQL Server 2000 databases (at least it says that it does, but I do not have any to run it against so I cannot comment on the validity).

You will also need a few other items such as the Microsoft Report Viewer, (2008 or 2010 versions will work), you will need to update the Report Viewer (2008 or 2010 versions), install the Relay Markup Language Utilities (RML Utiltities), and then you will be able to install SQL Nexus.  That almost felt like a Linux distribution with all of the required pieces.

The RML Utilities are pretty neat as they can help simulate application testing by replaying a production user load in a testing environment.  This can be helpful in testing an upgrade to SQL Server or in applying patches and service packs.  Tomorrow we will continue this journey.  Enjoy!