Introduction to Testing

To Shrink or Compress the DB file or DB log

2011-12-30T21:30:00.000+05:30

USE DatabaseName

GO
DBCC SHRINKFILE(, 1)
BACKUP LOG WITH TRUNCATE_ONLY
DBCC SHRINKFILE(, 1)
GO

Note:- Provide the Database name and the TransactionLogName within single quotes

To Know the DB file size consumption

2011-12-30T21:26:00.002+05:30

Below query should output the DB file consumption details

SELECT

DB_NAME(mf.database_id) AS databaseName,
name AS File_LogicalName,
CASE
WHEN type_desc = 'LOG' THEN 'Log File'
WHEN type_desc = 'ROWS' THEN 'Data File'
ELSE type_desc
END AS File_type_desc
,mf.physical_name
,num_of_reads
,num_of_bytes_read
,io_stall_read_ms
,num_of_writes
,num_of_bytes_written
,io_stall_write_ms
,io_stall
,size_on_disk_bytes
,size_on_disk_bytes/ 1024 AS size_on_disk_KB
,size_on_disk_bytes/ 1024 / 1024 AS size_on_disk_MB
,size_on_disk_bytes/ 1024 / 1024 / 1024 AS size_on_disk_GB
FROM sys.dm_io_virtual_file_stats(NULL, NULL) AS divfs
JOIN sys.master_files AS mf ON mf.database_id = divfs.database_id
AND mf.FILE_ID = divfs.FILE_ID
ORDER BY num_of_Reads DESC

Issue with the Message Queue

2011-12-06T20:39:00.003+05:30

If there is a message queue problem with the steps then it can be resolved upon re-installing the message queue.
Please follow the below steps to re-install the message queue.
1. Go to Control Panel -> Add or Remove Programs -> Add/Remove Windows Components -> Uncheck Message Queuing -> continue Next steps. This should uninstall the Message Queuing Service from the system
2. Restart the Machine (Server)
3. Control Panel -> Add or Remove Programs -> Add/Remove Windows Components -> Check Message Queuing -> Click the Details tab -> Ensure selecting MSMQ HTTP Support, Common and Triggers -> Click OK button -> Click Next. This should install the Message Queuing Service in the system
4. Restart the Machine (Server)

How to delete bugs in Buzilla

2011-09-07T13:16:00.001+05:30

Follow the below steps to delete bugs in Buzilla

* You cannot delete a bug, but deletion of component or product can be done

* Login as an Administrator

* Administration -> Administrative policy -> Enable Allowbugdeletion checkbox -> save

* Select the component and Delete

How to get the DLL file from the GAC

2011-09-07T13:15:00.000+05:30

To get the DLL file from the GAC

1. Go to C:\windows\assembly\gac_msil or C:\windows\assembly\gac
2. Copy the required DLL file

Desktop Items getting highlighted

2011-09-07T13:12:00.002+05:30

If your Desktop items are getting Highlighted, just follow the below steps to resolve

Go to Desktop-properties -> Desktop (tab) -> Customise Desktop -> Web (tab)

Check if it is listed there?

If so, delete it

Problem solved :)

Rename Database Name in MS SSL Server

2011-09-07T13:04:00.002+05:30

Would like to appreciate the nice posting in the below link which precisely defines how to change the Database Name...

http://sqlserverpedia.com/blog/sql-server-bloggers/forcefully-rename-a-sql-database/

Helped me a lott..
Thought of sharing this it might help some readers

How can we calculate minimum number of expected testcases for a product

2010-06-14T12:58:00.000+05:30

The minimum number of testcases cannot be counted directly. Only based on requirements, we can calculate the minimum number of test cases.

Using SRS-->Functional requirements-->Function point analysis will be done, based on that, testers can do test point analysis-->based on that no.of.test cases can be calculated.Remember it is only one of the way, other ways are also practiced.

EMC is one of the methods, EMC stands for Easy Medium and Complex functionalities, we can roughly allocate,

easy functionality--> x no.of test cases ;

medium functionality-->y no.of. functionality

and

complex functionality-->z no.of. functionality,

so the no.of. test cases can be

Total no.of. test cases = {X * no.of.easy functionalities} + {Y * no.of.medium functionalities} + {Z * no.of.complex functionalities}

How to Write a Bug Report - A dozen helpful tips

2009-12-08T16:56:00.000+05:30

1. Be very specific when describing the bug. Don’t let there be any room for interpretation. More concise means less ambiguous, so less clarification will be needed later on.

2. Calling windows by their correct names (by the name displayed on the title bar) will eliminate some ambiguity.

3. Don’t be repetitive. Don’t repeat yourself. Also, don’t say things twice or three times.

4. Try to limit the number of steps to recreate the problem. A bug that is written with 7 or more steps can usually become hard to read. It is usually possible to shorten that list.

5. Start describing with where the bug begins, not before. For example, you don't have to describe how to load and launch the application if the application crashes on exit.

6. Proofreading the bug report is very important. Send it through a spell checker before submitting it.

7. Make sure that all step numbers are sequenced. (No missing step numbers and no duplicates.)

8. Please make sure that you use sentences. This is a sentence. This not sentence.

9. Don’t use a condescending or negative tone in your bug reports. Don’t say things like "It's still broken", or “It is completely wrong”.

10. Don’t use vague terms like “It doesn’t work” or “not working properly”

11. If there is an error message involved, be sure to include the exact wording of the text in the bug report. If there is a GPF (General Protection Fault) be sure to include the name of the module and address of the crash.

12. Once the text of the report is entered, you don’t know whose eyes will see it. You might think that it will go to your manager and the developer and that’s it, but it could show up in other documents that you are not aware of, such as reports to senior management or clients, to the company intranet, to future test scripts or test plans. The point is that the bug report is your work product, and you should take pride in your work.

How to determine whether a computer is running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of the Windows OS

2009-10-15T13:21:00.002+05:30

Windows Vista

If you have Windows Vista, there are two methods to determine whether you are running a 32-bit or a 64-bit version. If one does not work, try the other.

Method 1: View System window in Control Panel

1. Click Start , type system in the Start Search box, and then click system in the Programs list.
2. The operating system is displayed as follows:
* For a 64-bit version operating system: 64-bit Operating System appears for the System type under System.
* For a 32-bit version operating system: 32-bit Operating System appears for the System type under System.

Method 2: View System Information window

1. Click Start, type system in the Start Search box, and then click System Information in the Programs list.
2. When System Summary is selected in the navigation pane, the operating system is displayed as follows:
* For a 64-bit version operating system: x64-based PC appears for the System type under Item.
* For a 32-bit version operating system: x86-based PC appears for the System type under Item.

Windows XP

If you have Windows XP, there are two methods to determine whether you are running a 32-bit or a 64-bit version. If one does not work, try the other.

Method 1: View System Properties in Control Panel

1. Click Start, and then click Run.
2. Type sysdm.cpl, and then click OK.
3. Click the General tab. The operating system is displayed as follows:
* For a 64-bit version operating system: Windows XP Professional x64 Edition Version <> appears under System.
* For a 32-bit version operating system: Windows XP Professional Version appears under System.
Note is a placeholder for a year.

Method 2: View System Information window

1. Click Start, and then click Run.
2. Type winmsd.exe, and then click OK.
3. When System Summary is selected in the navigation pane, locate Processor under Item in the details pane. Note the value.
* If the value that corresponds to Processor starts with x86, the computer is running a 32-bit version of Windows.
* If the value that corresponds to Processor starts with ia64 or AMD64, the computer is running a 64-bit version of Windows.

Windows Server 2003

If you have Windows Server 2003, there are two methods to determine whether you are running a 32-bit or a 64-bit version. If one does not work, try the other.

Method 1: View System Properties in Control Panel

1. Click Start, and then click Run.
2. Type sysdm.cpl, and then click OK.
3. Click the General tab. The operating system is displayed as follows:
* For a 64-bit version operating system: Windows Server 2003 Enterprise x64 Edition appears under System.
* For a 32-bit version operating system: Windows Server 2003 Enterprise Edition appears under System.

Method 2: View System Information window

1. Click Start, and then click Run
2. Type winmsd.exe, and then click OK.
3. When System Summary is selected in the navigation pane, locate Processor under Item in the details pane. Note the value.
* If the value that corresponds to Processor starts with x86, the computer is running a 32-bit version of Windows.
* If the value that corresponds to Processor starts with EM64T or ia64, the computer is running a 64-bit version of Windows.

Testing Types and Testing Techniques

2009-08-17T15:35:00.010+05:30

Testing Types deal with what aspect of the computer software would be tested, while Testing Techniques deal with how a specific part of the software would be tested...

Testing techniques

Testing techniques refer to different methods of testing particular features a computer program, system or product and what methods or ways would be applied or calculations would be done to test a particular feature of a software.

Black box testing techniques:

* Graph Based Testing Methods
* Error Guessing
* Boundary Value analysis
* Equivalence partitioning
* Comparison Testing
* Orthogonal Array Testing

White box testing techniques:

* Basis Path Testing
* Flow Graph Notation
* Cyclomatic Complexity
* Graph Matrices
* Control Structure Testing

Testing types

Testing types refer to different approaches towards testing a computer program, system or product. In other words, we may test each function of the software to see if it is operational or we may test the internal components of the software to check if its internal workings are according to specification

The different "Types of Testing" are listed below.

* Acceptance Testing
* Ad hoc Testing
/***
o Buddy Testing
o Paired Testing
o Exploratory Testing
o Iterative / Spiral model Testing
o Agile / Extreme Testing
***/

* Aesthetics Testing
* Alpha Testing
* Automated Testing
* Beta Testing
* Black Box Testing
* Boundary Testing
* Comparison Testing
* Compatibility Testing
* Conformance Testing
* Consistency Testing (Heuristic)
* Deployment Testing
* Documentation Testing
* Domain Testing
* Download Testing
* EC Analysis Testing
* End-to-End Testing
* Fault-Injection Testing
* Functional Testing
* Fuzz Testing
* Gray Box Testing
* Guerilla Testing
* Install & Configuration Testing
* Integration Testing
/***
o System Integration
o Top-down Integration
o Bottom-up Integration
o Bi-directional Integration
***/

* Interface Testing
* Internationalization Testing
* Interoperability Testing
* Lifecycle Testing
* Load Testing
* Localization Testing
* Logic Testing
* Manual Testing
* Menu Walk-through Testing
* Performance Testing
* Pilot Testing
* Positive & Negative Testing
* Protocol Testing
* Recovery Testing
* Regression Testing
* Reliability Testing
* Requirements Testing
* Risk-based Testing
* Sanity Testing
* Scalability Testing
* Scenario Testing
* Scripted Testing
* Security Testing
* SME Testing
* Smoke Testing
* Soak Testing
* Specification Testing
* Standards / Compliance Testing
/***
o 508 accessibility guidelines
o SOX
o FDA / Patriot Act
o Other standards requiring compliance
***/

* State Testing
* Stress Testing
* System Testing
* Testability Testing
* Unit Testing
* Upgrade & Migration Testing
* Usability Testing
* White box Testing
/***
o Static Testing Techniques

/******
+ Desk checking
+ Code walk-through
+ Code reviews and inspection
******/

***/

/***
o Structural Testing Techniques

/******
+ Unit Testing
+ Code Coverage Testing
+ Statement
+ Path
+ Function
+ Condition
+ Complexity Testing / Cyclomatic complexity
+ Mutation Testing
******/

***/

The list above, hopefully covers most of the "Types of Tests" that are generally performed. There may be a few that might have missed ...

Let me know if that is the case and I'll be more than glad to add / edit them.

Defects related definitions

2009-06-24T17:26:00.002+05:30

Defect

* The difference between the functional specification (including user documentation) and actual program text (source code and data). Often reported as problem and stored in defect-tracking and problem-management system

* Also called a fault or a bug, a defect is an incorrect part of code that is caused by an error. An error of commission causes a defect of wrong or extra code. An error of omission results in a defect of missing code. A defect may cause one or more failures.

* A flaw in the software with potential to cause a failure..

Defect Age - A measurement that describes the period of time from the introduction of a defect until its discovery.

Defect Density - A metric that compares the number of defects to a measure of size (e.g., defects per KLOC). Often used as a measure of defect quality.

Defect Discovery Rate - A metric describing the number of defects discovered over a specified period of time, usually displayed in graphical form.

Defect Removal Efficiency (DRE) - A measure of the number of defects discovered in an activity versus the number that could have been found. Often used as a measure of test effectiveness.

Defect Seeding - The process of intentionally adding known defects to those already in a computer program for the purpose of monitoring the rate of detection and removal, and estimating the number of defects still remaining. Also called Error Seeding.

Defect Masked - An existing defect that hasn't yet caused a failure because another defect has prevented that part of the code from being executed.

Tester’s Tips for Dealing with Developers

2009-06-24T16:52:00.008+05:30

Thought of sharing the tips which I happen to read from a good forum on How to deal with the Developers. Its a good one. Read on...

A beautiful line from Cem Kaner’s Testing Computer Software: "The best tester is not the one who finds the most bugs or who embarrasses the most developers. The best tester is the one who gets the most bugs fixed."

Be Cordial and Patient
As a tester you may find it more difficult to convince a developer about a defect you’ve found. Often, if a tester exposes one bug, the programmer will be ready with ten justifications. It’s sometimes difficult for developers to accept the fact that their code is defective—and someone else has detected it.

Developers need support from the testing team, who can assure them that finding new bugs is desirable, healthy, and important in making the product the best it can be. A humanistic approach will always help the tester know the programmer better. Believe me, in no time the same person could be sitting with you and laughing at mistakes that introduced bugs. Cordiality typically helps in getting the developer to say “yes” to your bug report. An important first step!

Be Diplomatic
Try presenting your findings tactfully, and explaining the bug without blame. “I am sure this is a minor bug that you could handle in no time. This is an excellent program so far.” Developers will jump and welcome it.

Take a psychological approach. Praise the developer’s job from time to time. The reason why most developers dislike our bug reports is very simple: They see us as tearing down their hard work. Some testers communicate with developers only when there is a problem. For most developers, the software is their own baby, and you are just an interfering outsider. I tell my developers that because of them I exist in the company and because of me their jobs are saved. It’s a symbiotic and profitable relationship between a tester and a developer.

Don’t Embarrass
Nobody likes mistakes to be pointed out. That’s human nature. Try explaining the big-picture need for fixing that particular bug rather than just firing bulky bug reports at developers. A deluge of defects not only irritates the developer, it makes your hard work useless for them.

Just as one can’t test a program completely, developers can’t design programs without mistakes, and they need to understand this before anything else. Errors are expected; they’re a natural part of the process.

You Win Some, You Lose Some
I know of testers who make their bug reports as rigid as possible. They won’t even listen to the developer’s explanations for not being able to fix a bug or implement a feature. Try making relaxed rules for yourself. Sit with the developer and analyze the priority and severity of a bug together. If the developer has a valid and sensible explanation behind her reluctance to change something, try to understand her. Just be sure to know where to draw the line in protecting the ultimate quality of your product.

Be Cautious
Diplomacy and flexibility do not replace the need to be cautious. Developers often find an excuse to say that they refused to fix a bug because they did not realize (or you did not tell them) how serious the problem was. Design your bug reports and test documents in a way that clearly lays out the risks and seriousness of issues. What’s even better is to conduct a meeting and explain the issues to them.

A smart tester is one who keeps a balance between listening and implementing. If a developer can’t convince you a bug shouldn’t be fixed, it’s your duty to convince him to fix it.

FAQ - Database Testing (141 to 150)

2008-03-29T18:28:00.006+05:30

141. The most important DDL statements in SQL are:

CREATE TABLE - creates a new database table
ALTER TABLE - alters (changes) a database table
DROP TABLE - deletes a database table
CREATE INDEX - creates an index (search key)
DROP INDEX - deletes an index

142. Operators used in SELECT statements.

= Equal
<> or != Not equal
> Greater than
<>= Greater than or equal
<= Less than or equal BETWEEN Between an inclusive range LIKE Search for a pattern

143. SELECT statements:

SELECT column_name(s) FROM table_name
SELECT DISTINCT column_name(s) FROM table_name
SELECT column FROM table WHERE column operator value
SELECT column FROM table WHERE column LIKE pattern
SELECT column,SUM(column) FROM table GROUP BY column
SELECT column,SUM(column) FROM table GROUP BY column HAVING SUM(column) condition value
Note that single quotes around text values and numeric values should not be enclosed in quotes. Double quotes may be acceptable
in some databases.

144. The SELECT INTO Statement is most often used to create backup copies of tables or for archiving records.

SELECT column_name(s) INTO newtable [IN externaldatabase] FROM source
SELECT column_name(s) INTO newtable [IN externaldatabase] FROM source WHERE column_name operator value

145. The INSERT INTO Statements:

INSERT INTO table_name VALUES (value1, value2,....)
INSERT INTO table_name (column1, column2,...) VALUES (value1, value2,....)

146. The Update Statement:

UPDATE table_name SET column_name = new_value WHERE column_name = some_value

147. The Delete Statements:

DELETE FROM table_name WHERE column_name = some_value
Delete All Rows:
DELETE FROM table_name or DELETE * FROM table_name

148. Sort the Rows:

SELECT column1, column2, ... FROM table_name ORDER BY columnX, columnY, ..
SELECT column1, column2, ... FROM table_name ORDER BY columnX DESC
SELECT column1, column2, ... FROM table_name ORDER BY columnX DESC, columnY ASC

149. The IN operator may be used if you know the exact value you want to return for at least one of the columns.

SELECT column_name FROM table_name WHERE column_name IN (value1,value2,..)

150. BETWEEN ... AND

SELECT column_name FROM table_name WHERE column_name BETWEEN value1 AND value2 The values can be numbers, text, or dates.

FAQ - Database Testing (131 to 140)

2008-03-29T18:26:00.001+05:30

131. How to know which index a table is using?

SELECT table_name,index_name FROM user_constraints

132. How to copy the tables, schema and views from one SQL server to another?

Microsoft SQL Server 2000 Data Transformation Services (DTS) is a set of graphical tools and programmable objects that lets user extract, transform, and consolidate data from disparate sources into single or multiple destinations.

133. What is Self Join?

This is a particular case when one table joins to itself, with one or two aliases to avoid confusion. A self join can be of any type, as long as the joined tables are the same. A self join is rather unique in that it involves a relationship with only one table. The common example is when company have a hierarchal reporting structure whereby one member of staff reports to another.

134. What is Cross Join?

A cross join that does not have a WHERE clause produces the Cartesian product of the tables involved in the join. The size of a Cartesian product result set is the number of rows in the first table multiplied by the number of rows in the second table. The common example is when company wants to combine each product with a pricing table to analyze each product at each price.

135. Which virtual table does a trigger use?

Inserted and Deleted.

136. List few advantages of Stored Procedure?

* Stored procedure can reduced network traffic and latency, boosting application performance.
* Stored procedure execution plans can be reused, staying cached in SQL Server's memory, reducing server overhead.
* Stored procedures help promote code reuse.
* Stored procedures can encapsulate logic. You can change stored procedure code without affecting clients.
* Stored procedures provide better security to your data.

137. What is DataWarehousing?

* Subject-oriented, meaning that the data in the database is organized so that all the data elements relating to the same real-world event or object are linked together;
* Time-variant, meaning that the changes to the data in the database are tracked and recorded so that reports can be produced showing changes over time;
* Non-volatile, meaning that data in the database is never over-written or deleted, once committed, the data is static, read-only, but retained for future reporting;
* Integrated, meaning that the database contains data from most or all of an organization's operational applications, and that this data is made consistent.

138. What is OLTP (OnLine Transaction Processing)?

In OLTP - online transaction processing systems relational database design use the discipline of data modeling and generally follow the Codd rules of data normalization in order to ensure absolute data integrity. Using these rules complex information is broken down into its most simple structures (a table) where all of the individual atomic level elements relate to each other and satisfy the normalization rules.

139. How do SQL server 2000 and XML linked? Can XML be used to access data?

FOR XML (ROW, AUTO, EXPLICIT)
You can execute SQL queries against existing relational databases to return results as XML rather than standard rowsets. These queries can be executed directly or from within stored procedures. To retrieve XML results, use the FOR XML clause of the SELECT statement and specify an XML mode of RAW, AUTO, or EXPLICIT.
OPENXML
OPENXML is a Transact-SQL keyword that provides a relational/rowset view over an in-memory XML document. OPENXML is a rowset provider similar to a table or a view. OPENXML provides a way to access XML data within the Transact-SQL context by transferring data from an XML document into the relational tables. Thus, OPENXML allows you to manage an XML document and its interaction with the relational environment.

140. What is an execution plan? When would you use it? How would you view the execution plan?

An execution plan is basically a road map that graphically or textually shows the data retrieval methods chosen by the SQL Server query optimizer for a stored procedure or ad-hoc query and is a very useful tool for a developer to understand the performance characteristics of a query or stored procedure since the plan is the one that SQL Server will place in its cache and use to execute the stored procedure or query. From within Query Analyzer is an option called "Show Execution Plan" (located on the Query drop-down menu). If this option is turned on it will display query execution plan in separate window when query is ran again.

FAQ - Database Testing (121 to 130)

2008-03-29T18:22:00.001+05:30

121. What are the properties of the Relational tables?

Relational tables have six properties:
Values are atomic.
Column values are of the same kind.
Each row is unique.
The sequence of columns is insignificant.
The sequence of rows is insignificant.
Each column must have a unique name.

122. What is De-normalization?

De-normalization is the process of attempting to optimize the performance of a database by adding redundant data. It is sometimes necessary because current DBMSs implement the relational model poorly. A true relational DBMS would allow for a fully normalized database at the logical level, while providing physical storage of data that is tuned for high performance. De-normalization is a technique to move from higher to lower normal forms of database modeling in order to speed up database access.

123. How to get @@error and @@rowcount at the same time?

If @@Rowcount is checked after Error checking statement then it will have 0 as the value of
@@Recordcount as it would have been reset.
And if @@Recordcount is checked before the error-checking statement then @@Error would get reset.
To get @@error and @@rowcount at the same time do both in same statement and store them in local variable. SELECT @RC = @@ROWCOUNT, @ER = @@ERROR

124. What is Identity?

Identity (or AutoNumber) is a column that automatically generates numeric values. A start and increment value can be set, but most DBA leave these at 1. A GUID column also generates numbers, the value of this cannot be controled. Identity/GUID columns do not need to be indexed.

125. What is a Scheduled Jobs or What is a Scheduled Tasks?

Scheduled tasks let user automate processes that run on regular or predictable cycles. User can schedule administrative tasks, such as cube processing, to run during times of slow business activity. User can also determine the order in which tasks run by creating job steps within a SQL Server Agent job. E.g. Back up database, Update Stats of Tables. Job steps give user control over flow of execution. If one job fails, user can configure SQL Server Agent to continue to run the remaining tasks or to stop execution.

126. What is a table called, if it does not have neither Cluster nor Non-cluster Index? What is it used for?

Unindexed table or Heap. Microsoft Press Books and Book On Line (BOL) refers it as Heap.
A heap is a table that does not have a clustered index and, therefore, the pages are not linked by pointers. The IAM pages are the only structures that link the pages in a table together. Unindexed tables are good for fast storing of data. Many times it is better to drop all indexes from table and than do bulk of inserts and to restore those indexes after that.

127. What is BCP? When does it used?

BulkCopy is a tool used to copy huge amount of data from tables and views. BCP does not copy the structures same as source to destination.

128. How do you load large data to the SQL server database?

BulkCopy is a tool used to copy huge amount of data from tables. BULK INSERT command helps to Imports a data file into a database table or view in a user-specified format.

129. Can we rewrite subqueries into simple select statements or with joins?

Subqueries can often be re-written to use a standard outer join, resulting in faster performance. As we may know, an outer join uses the plus sign (+) operator to tell the database to return all non-matching rows with NULL values. Hence we combine the outer join with a NULL test in the WHERE clause to reproduce the result set without using a sub-query.

130. Can SQL Servers linked to other servers like Oracle?

SQL Server can be lined to any server provided it has OLE-DB provider from Microsoft to allow a link. E.g. Oracle has a OLE-DB provider for oracle that Microsoft provides to add it as linked server to SQL Server group.

FAQ - Database Testing (111 to 120)

2008-03-29T18:16:00.001+05:30

111. What are the different types of replication? Explain.

The SQL Server 2000-supported replication types are as follows:
· Transactional
· Snapshot
· Merge
Snapshot replication distributes data exactly as it appears at a specific moment in time and does not monitor for updates to the data. Snapshot replication is best used as a method for replicating data that changes infrequently or where the most up-to-date values (low latency) are not a requirement. When synchronization occurs, the entire snapshot is generated and sent to Subscribers.
Transactional replication, an initial snapshot of data is applied at Subscribers, and then when data modifications are made at the Publisher, the individual transactions are captured and propagated to Subscribers.
Merge replication is the process of distributing data from Publisher to Subscribers, allowing the Publisher and Subscribers to make updates while connected or disconnected, and then merging the updates between sites when they are connected.

112. What are the OS services that the SQL Server installation adds?

MS SQL SERVER SERVICE, SQL AGENT SERVICE, DTC (Distribution transac co-ordinator)

113. What are three SQL keywords used to change or set someone’s permissions?

GRANT, DENY, and REVOKE.

114. What does it mean to have quoted_identifier on? What are the implications of having it off?

When SET QUOTED_IDENTIFIER is ON, identifiers can be delimited by double quotation marks, and literals must be delimited by single quotation marks. When SET QUOTED_IDENTIFIER is OFF, identifiers cannot be quoted and must follow all Transact-SQL rules for identifiers.

115. What is the STUFF function and how does it differ from the REPLACE function?

STUFF function to overwrite existing characters. Using this syntax, STUFF(string_expression, start, length, replacement_characters), string_expression is the string that will have characters substituted, start is the starting position, length is the number of characters in the string that are substituted, and replacement_characters are the new characters interjected into the string.
REPLACE function to replace existing characters of all occurance. Using this syntax
REPLACE(string_expression, search_string, replacement_string), where every incidence of
search_string found in the string_expression will be replaced with replacement_string.

116. Using query analyzer, name 3 ways to get an accurate count of the number of records in a table?

SELECT * FROM table1
SELECT COUNT(*) FROM table1
SELECT rows FROM sysindexes WHERE id = OBJECT_ID(table1) AND indid <>

117. How to rebuild Master Database?

Shutdown Microsoft SQL Server 2000, and then run Rebuildm.exe. This is located in the Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\80\Tools\Binn directory.
In the Rebuild Master dialog box, click Browse.
In the Browse for Folder dialog box, select the \Data folder on the SQL Server 2000 compact disc or in the shared network directory from which SQL Server 2000 was installed, and then click OK.
Click Settings.
In the Collation Settings dialog box, verify or change settings used for the master database and all other databases. Initially, the default collation settings are shown, but these may not match the collation selected during setup. You can select the same settings used during setup or select new collation settings. When done,
click OK.
In the Rebuild Master dialog box, click Rebuild to start the process.
The Rebuild Master utility reinstalls the master database.
To continue, you may need to stop a server that is running.
Source: http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa197950(SQL.80).aspx

118. What is the basic functions for master, msdb, model, tempdb databases?

The Master database holds information for all databases located on the SQL Server instance and is the glue that holds the engine together. Because SQL Server cannot start without a functioning master database, you must administer this database with care. The msdb database stores information regarding database backups, SQL Agent information, DTS
packages, SQL Server jobs, and some replication information such as for log shipping.
The tempdb holds temporary objects such as global and local temporary tables and stored procedures. The model is essentially a template database used in the creation of any new user database created in the instance.

119. What are primary keys and foreign keys?

Primary keys are the unique identifiers for each row. They must contain unique values and cannot be null. Due to their importance in relational databases, Primary keys are the most fundamental of all keys and constraints. A table can have only one Primary key.
Foreign keys are both a method of ensuring data integrity and a manifestation of the relationship between tables.

120. What is data integrity? Explain constraints?

Data integrity is an important feature in SQL Server. When used properly, it ensures that data is accurate, correct, and valid. It also acts as a trap for otherwise undetectable bugs within applications.
A PRIMARY KEY constraint is a unique identifier for a row within a database table. Every table should have a primary key constraint to uniquely identify each row and only one primary key constraint can be created for each table. The primary key constraints are used to enforce entity integrity.
A UNIQUE constraint enforces the uniqueness of the values in a set of columns, so no duplicate values are entered. The unique key constraints are used to enforce entity integrity as the primary key constraints.
A FOREIGN KEY constraint prevents any actions that would destroy links between tables with the corresponding data values. A foreign key in one table points to a primary key in another table. Foreign keys prevent actions that would leave rows with foreign key values when there are no primary keys with that value. The foreign key constraints are used to enforce referential integrity.
A CHECK constraint is used to limit the values that can be placed in a column. The check constraints are used to enforce domain integrity.
A NOT NULL constraint enforces that the column will not accept null values. The not null constraints are used to enforce domain integrity, as the check constraints.

FAQ - Database Testing (101 to 110)

2008-03-29T18:12:00.001+05:30

101. What are the authentication modes in SQL Server? How can it be changed?

Windows mode and mixed mode (SQL & Windows).
To change authentication mode in SQL Server click Start, Programs, Microsoft SQL Server and click SQL Enterprise Manager to run SQL Enterprise Manager from the Microsoft SQL Server program group.
Select the server then from the Tools menu select SQL Server Configuration Properties, and choose the Security page.

102. Where are SQL server users names and passwords are stored in sql server?

They get stored in master db in the sysxlogins table.

Which command using Query Analyzer will give you the version of SQL server and operating
system?

SELECT SERVERPROPERTY('productversion'), SERVERPROPERTY ('productlevel'), SERVERPROPERTY ('edition')

103. What is SQL server agent?

SQL Server agent plays an important role in the day-to-day tasks of a database dministrator (DBA). It is often overlooked as one of the main tools for SQL Server management. Its purpose is to ease the implementation of tasks for the DBA, with its full-function scheduling engine, which allows you to schedule your own jobs and scripts.

104. Can a stored procedure call itself or recursive stored procedure? How many level SP nesting possible?

Yes. Because Transact-SQL supports recursion, you can write stored procedures that call themselves. Recursion can be defined as a method of problem solving wherein the solution is arrived at by repetitively applying it to subsets of the problem. A common application of recursive logic is to perform numeric computations that lend themselves to repetitive evaluation by the same processing steps.
Stored procedures are nested when one stored procedure calls another or executes managed code by referencing a CLR routine, type, or aggregate. You can nest stored procedures and managed code references up to 32 levels.

105. What is @@ERROR?

The @@ERROR automatic variable returns the error code of the last Transact-SQL statement. If there was no error, @@ERROR returns zero. Because @@ERROR is reset after each Transact-SQL statement, it must be saved to a variable if it is needed to process it further after checking it.

106. What is Raise error?

Stored procedures report errors to client applications via the RAISERROR command. RAISERROR doesn't change the flow of a procedure; it merely displays an error message, sets the @@ERROR automatic variable, and optionally writes the message to the SQL Server error log and the NT application event log.

107. What is log shipping?

Log shipping is the process of automating the backup of database and transaction log files on a production SQL server, and then restoring them onto a standby server. Enterprise Editions only supports log shipping. In log shipping the transactional log file from one server is automatically updated into the backup database on the other server. If one server fails, the other server will have the same db can be used this as the Disaster Recovery plan. The key feature of log shipping is that is will automatically backup transaction logs throughout the day and automatically restore them on the standby server at defined interval.

108. What is the difference between a local and a global variable?

A local temporary table exists only for the duration of a connection or, if defined inside a compound statement, for the duration of the compound statement. A global temporary table remains in the database permanently, but the rows exist only within a given connection. When connection are closed, the data in the global temporary table disappears. However,
the table definition remains with the database for access when database is opened next time.

109. What command do we use to rename a db?

sp_renamedb ‘oldname’ , ‘newname’
If someone is using db it will not accept sp_renmaedb. In that case first bring db to single user using sp_dboptions. Use sp_renamedb to rename database. Use sp_dboptions to bring database to multi user mode.

110. What is sp_configure commands and set commands?

Use sp_configure to display or change server-level settings. To change database-level settings, use ALTER DATABASE. To change settings that affect only the current user session, use the SET statement.

FAQ - Database Testing (91 to 100)

2008-03-29T18:09:00.001+05:30

91. Difference between Function and Stored Procedure?

UDF(User Defined Function) can be used in the SQL statements anywhere in the WHERE/HAVING/SELECT section where as Stored procedures cannot be.
UDFs that return tables can be treated as another rowset. This can be used in JOINs with other tables. Inline UDF's can be though of as views that take parameters and can be used in JOINs and other Rowset operations.

92. When is the use of UPDATE_STATISTICS command?

This command is basically used when a large processing of data has occurred. If a large amount of deletions any modification or Bulk Copy into the tables has occurred, it has to update the indexes to take these changes into account. UPDATE_STATISTICS updates the indexes on these tables accordingly.

93. What types of Joins are possible with SQL Server?

Joins are used in queries to explain how different tables are related. Joins also let you select data from a table depending upon data from another table.
Types of joins: INNER JOINs, OUTER JOINs, CROSS JOINs. OUTER JOINs are further classified as LEFT OUTER JOINS, RIGHT OUTER JOINS and FULL OUTER JOINS.

94. What is the difference between a HAVING CLAUSE and a WHERE CLAUSE?

Specifies a search condition for a group or an aggregate. HAVING can be used only with the SELECT statement. HAVING is typically used in a GROUP BY clause. When GROUP BY is not used, HAVING behaves like a WHERE clause. Having Clause is basically used only with the GROUP BY function in a query. WHERE Clause is applied to each row before they are part of the GROUP BY function in a query.

95. What is sub-query? Explain properties of sub-query.

Sub-queries are often referred to as sub-selects, as they allow a SELECT statement to be executed arbitrarily within the body of another SQL statement. A sub-query is executed by enclosing it in a set of parentheses. Sub-queries are generally used to return a single row as an atomic value, though they may be used to compare values against multiple rows with the IN keyword.
A subquery is a SELECT statement that is nested within another T-SQL statement. A subquery SELECT statement if executed independently of the T-SQL statement, in which it is nested, will return a result set. Meaning a subquery SELECT statement can standalone and is not depended on the statement in which it is nested. A subquery SELECT statement can return any number of values, and can be found in, the column list of a SELECT statement, a FROM, GROUP BY, HAVING, and/or ORDER BY clauses of a T-SQL statement. A Subquery can also be used as a parameter to a function call. Basically a subquery can be used anywhere an expression can be used.
Properties of Sub-Query
A subquery must be enclosed in the parenthesis.
A subquery must be put in the right hand of the comparison operator, and
A subquery cannot contain a ORDER-BY clause.
A query can contain more than one sub-queries.

96. What are types of sub-queries?

Single-row subquery, where the subquery returns only one row.
Multiple-row subquery, where the subquery returns multiple rows,.and
Multiple column subquery, where the subquery returns multiple columns.

97. What is SQL Profiler?

SQL Profiler is a graphical tool that allows system administrators to monitor events in an instance of Microsoft SQL Server. You can capture and save data about each event to a file or SQL Server table to analyze later. For example, you can monitor a production environment to see which stored procedures are hampering performance by executing too slowly. Use SQL Profiler to monitor only the events in which you are interested. If traces are becoming too large, you can filter them based on the information you want, so that only a subset of the event data is collected. Monitoring too many events adds overhead to the server and the monitoring process and can cause the trace file or trace table to grow very large, especially when the monitoring process takes place over a long period of time.

98. What is User Defined Functions?

User-Defined Functions allow to define its own T-SQL functions that can accept 0 or more parameters and return a single scalar data value or a table data type.

99. What kind of User-Defined Functions can be created?

There are three types of User-Defined functions in SQL Server 2000 and they are Scalar, Inline Table- Valued and Multi-statement Table-valued.

Scalar User-Defined Function
A Scalar user-defined function returns one of the scalar data types. Text, ntext, image and timestamp data types are not supported. These are the type of user-defined functions that most developers are used to in other programming languages. You pass in 0 to many parameters and you get a return value.

Inline Table-Value User-Defined Function
An Inline Table-Value user-defined function returns a table data type and is an exceptional alternative to a view as the user-defined function can pass parameters into a T-SQL select command and in essence provide us with a parameterized, non-updateable view of the underlying tables.

Multi-statement Table-Value User-Defined Function
A Multi-Statement Table-Value user-defined function returns a table and is also an exceptional alternative to a view as the function can support multiple T-SQL statements to build the final result where the view is limited to a single SELECT statement. Also, the ability to pass parameters into a TSQL select command or a group of them gives us the capability to in essence create a parameterized, non-updateable view of the data in the underlying tables. Within the create function command you must define the table structure that is being returned. After creating this type of user-defined function, It can be used in the FROM clause of a T-SQL command unlike the behavior found when using a stored procedure which can also return record sets.

100. Which TCP/IP port does SQL Server run on? How can it be changed?

SQL Server runs on port 1433. It can be changed from the Network Utility TCP/IP properties –> Port number.both on client and the server.

FAQ - Database Testing ( 81 to 90 )

2008-03-29T18:07:00.001+05:30

81. What are the different index configurations a table can have?

A table can have one of the following index configurations:
No indexes
A clustered index
A clustered index and many non-clustered indexes
A non-clustered index
Many non-clustered indexes

82. What is cursor?

Cursor is a database object used by applications to manipulate data in a set on a row-by-row basis, instead of the typical SQL commands that operate on all the rows in the set at one time. In order to work with a cursor we need to perform some steps in the following order:

Declare cursor
Open cursor
Fetch row from the cursor
Process fetched row
Close cursor
Deallocate cursor

83. What is the use of DBCC commands?

DBCC stands for database consistency checker. We use these commands to check the consistency of the databases, i.e., maintenance, validation task and status checks.
E.g. DBCC CHECKDB - Ensures that tables in the db and the indexes are correctly linked.
DBCC CHECKALLOC - To check that all pages in a db are correctly allocated.
DBCC CHECKFILEGROUP - Checks all tables file group for any damage.

84. What is a Linked Server?

Linked Servers is a concept in SQL Server by which we can add other SQL Server to a Group and query both the SQL Server dbs using T-SQL Statements. With a linked server, you can create very clean, easy to follow, SQL statements that allow remote data to be retrieved, joined and combined with local data. Storped Procedure sp_addlinkedserver, sp_addlinkedsrvlogin will be used add new Linked Server.

85. What is Collation?

Collation refers to a set of rules that determine how data is sorted and compared. Character data is sorted using rules that define the correct character sequence, with options for specifying case sensitivity, accent marks, kana character types and character width.

86. What are different types of Collation Sensitivity?

Case sensitivity
A and a, B and b, etc.
Accent sensitivity
a and á, o and ó, etc.
Kana Sensitivity
When Japanese kana characters Hiragana and Katakana are treated differently, it is called Kana
sensitive.
Width sensitivity
When a single-byte character (half-width) and the same character when represented as a double-byte
character (full-width) are treated differently then it is width sensitive.

87. What's the difference between a primary key and a unique key?

Both primary key and unique enforce uniqueness of the column on which they are defined. But by default primary key creates a clustered index on the column, where are unique creates a non-clustered index by default. Another major difference is that, primary key doesn't allow NULLs, but unique key allows one NULL only.

88. How to implement one-to-one, one-to-many and many-to-many relationships while designing tables ?

One-to-One relationship can be implemented as a single table and rarely as two tables with primary and foreign key relationships.
One-to-Many relationships are implemented by splitting the data into two tables with primary key and foreign key relationships.
Many-to-Many relationships are implemented using a junction table with the keys from both the tables forming the composite primary key of the junction table.

89. What is a NOLOCK?

Using the NOLOCK query optimizer hint is generally considered good practice in order to improve concurrency on a busy system. When the NOLOCK hint is included in a SELECT statement, no locks are taken when data is read. The result is a Dirty Read, which means that another process could be updating the data at the exact time you are reading it. There are no guarantees that your query will retrieve the most recent data. The advantage to performance is that your reading of data will not block updates from taking place, and updates will not block your reading of data. SELECT statements take Shared (Read) locks. This means that multiple SELECT statements are allowed simultaneous access, but
other processes are blocked from modifying the data. The updates will queue until all the reads have completed, and reads requested after the update will wait for the updates to complete. The result to your system is delay(blocking).

90. What is difference between DELETE & TRUNCATE commands?

Delete command removes the rows from a table based on the condition that we provide with a WHERE clause. Truncate will actually remove all the rows from a table and there will be no data in the table after we run the truncate command.

TRUNCATE

TRUNCATE is faster and uses fewer system and transaction log resources than DELETE.
TRUNCATE removes the data by deallocating the data pages used to store the table’s data, and only the page deallocations are recorded in the transaction log.
TRUNCATE removes all rows from a table, but the table structure and its columns, constraints, indexes and so on remain. The counter used by an identity for new rows is reset to the seed for the column.
You cannot use TRUNCATE TABLE on a table referenced by a FOREIGN KEY constraint.
Because TRUNCATE TABLE is not logged, it cannot activate a trigger.
TRUNCATE can not be Rolled back.
TRUNCATE is DDL Command.
TRUNCATE Resets identity of the table.

DELETE

DELETE removes rows one at a time and records an entry in the transaction log for each deleted row.
If you want to retain the identity counter, use DELETE instead. If you want to remove table definition and its data, use the DROP TABLE statement.
DELETE Can be used with or without a WHERE clause
DELETE Activates Triggers.
DELETE Can be Rolled back.
DELETE is DML Command.
DELETE does not reset identity of the table.

FAQ - Database Testing ( 71 to 80 )

2008-03-29T18:05:00.002+05:30

71. What is the difference between ORACLE, SQL, and SQL SERVER?

Oracle is based on RDBMS.SQL is Structured Query Language.SQL Server is another tool for RDBMS provided by Microsoft.

72. How to retrieving the data from 11th column to nth column in a table?

SELECT * FROM EMP WHERE ROWID IN ( SELECT ROWID FROM EMP WHERE ROWNUM <=&UPTOMINUSSELECT ROWID FROM EMP WHERE ROWNUM <&STARTFROM)from this you can select between any range.

73. Difference between decode and case. In which case we are using case and in which case we are using decode? Explain with an example?

First I will give one example using 'decode'SQL>SELECT ENAME, SAL, DECODE (DEPTNO, 10, 'ACCOUNTING', 20,'RESEARCH', 30,'SALES', 40,'OPERATIONS','OTHERS') "DEPARTMENTS" FROM EMP;
I have used the decode function on 'deptno' column. It will give the user-friendly output. instead of using 'accounting', ‘research’. We can use anything we want to get the friendly outputs.

I have to check-out the 'case' function after that I will give an example using CASE expression we can use all comparative operators (<, >, ==, etc), where as using DECODE we should always use = condition.

74. What is the main difference between the IN and EXISTS clause in sub-queries?

The main difference between the IN and EXISTS predicate in sub-query is the way in which the query gets executed.IN -- The inner query is executed first and the list of values obtained as its result is used by the outer query. The inner query is executed for only once.EXISTS -- The first row from the outer query is selected, then the inner query is executed and , the outer query output uses this result for checking. This process of inner query execution repeats as many no. of times as there are outer query rows. That is, if there are ten rows that can result from outer query, the inner query is executed that many no. of times.

75. Difference between an equi-join and union?

Indeed both equi join and the Union are very different. Equi join is used to establish a condition between two tables to select data from them.. eg SELECT A.EMPLOYEEID, A.EMPLOYEENAME, B.DEPT_NAME FROM EMPLOYEEMASTER A , DEPARTMENTMASTER BWHERE A.EMPLOYEEID = B.EMPLOYEEID;This is the example of equijoin whereas with a Union allows you to select the similar data based on different conditions egSELECT A.EMPLOYEEID, A.EMPLOYEENAME FROM EMPLOYEEMASTER A WHERE A.EMPLOYEEID >100 B.EMPLOYEEIDUNION
SELECT A.EMPLOYEEID, A.EMPLOYEENAME FROM EMPLOYEEMASTER A WHERE A.EMPLOYEENAME LIKE 'B%'the above is the example of Union where in we select employee name and Id for two different conditions into the same record set and is used thereafter.

76. How to find out the database name from SQL*PLUS command prompt?

SELECT * FROM GLOBAL_NAME;This will give the database name which you are currently connected to.

77. What is the difference between Single row sub-Query and Scalar sub-Query?

Single row sub-query returns a value that is used by where clause, whereas scalar sub-query is a select statement used in column list can be thought of as an inline function in select column list.

78. What is View?

A simple view can be thought of as a subset of a table. It can be used for retrieving data, as well as updating or deleting rows. Rows updated or deleted in the view are updated or deleted in the table the view was created with. It should also be noted that as data in the original table changes, so does data in the view, as views are the way to look at part of the original table. The results of using a view are not permanently stored in the database. The data accessed through a view is actually constructed using standard T-SQL select command and can come from one to many different base tables or even other views.

79. What is Index?

An index is a physical structure containing pointers to the data. Indices are created in an existing table to locate rows more quickly and efficiently. It is possible to create an index on one or more columns of a table, and each index is given a name. The users cannot see the indexes, they are just used to speed up queries. Effective indexes are one of the best ways to improve performance in a database application. A table scan happens when there is no index available to help a query. In a table scan SQL Server examines every row in the table to satisfy the query results. Table scans are sometimes unavoidable, but on large tables, scans have a terrific impact on performance.
Clustered indexes define the physical sorting of a database table’s rows in the storage media. For this reason, each database table may have only one clustered index.
Non-clustered indexes are created outside of the database table and contain a sorted list of references to the table itself.

80. What are the difference between clustered and a non-clustered index?

A clustered index is a special type of index that reorders the way records in the table are physically stored. Therefore table can have only one clustered index. The leaf nodes of a clustered index contain the data pages.
A non-clustered index is a special type of index in which the logical order of the index does not match the physical stored order of the rows on disk. The leaf node of a non-clustered index does not consist of the data pages. Instead, the leaf nodes contain index rows.

FAQ - Database Testing ( 61 to 70 )

2008-03-29T18:02:00.001+05:30

61. Can we call user-defined packages in SQL statements?

I do not agree that we can't call user- defined packages in the SQL statements. Instead we can call user defined packaged functions in the SELECT statement.
e.g. SELECT pkg.test(10) FROM DUAL;

62. What is table space?

Table-space is a physical concept. It has pages where the record of the database is stored with a logical perception of tables. So table space contains tables.

63. Explain normalization with examples?

Normalization is a process of eliminating the redundancy and increasing the integrity.

64. Given an unnormalized table with columns?

The query will be:

DELETE FROM TABNAME WHERE ROWID NOT IN (SELECT MAX (ROWID) FROM TABNAME GROUP BY NAME;

Here tabname is the table name

65. What is Reference cursor?

Reference cursor is dynamic cursor used with SQL statement like For select* from emp;

66. What is the difference between SQL and SQL Server?

SQLServer is an RDBMS just like oracle, DB2 from Microsoft whereas Structured Query Language (SQL), pronounced "sequel", is a language that provides an interface to relational database systems. IBM developed it in the 1970s for use in System R. SQL is a de facto standard, as well as an ISO and ANSI standard. SQL is used to perform various operations on RDBMS.

67. Difference between Store Procedure and Trigger?

Information related to Stored procedure you can see in,
USER_SOURCE, USER_OBJECTS (current user) tables

Information related to triggers stored in USER_SOURCE,USER_TRIGGERS (current user) Tables.Stored procedure can't be inactive but trigger can be Inactive.

68. I have a table with duplicate names in it. Write me a query which returns only duplicate rows with number of times they are repeated?

SELECT COL1 FROM TAB1 WHERE COL1 IN (SELECT MAX (COL1) FROM TAB1 GROUP BY COL1 HAVING COUNT (COL1) > 1 )

69. What is cluster? What is cluster index & non-cluster index?

Clustered Index: - A Clustered index is a special type of index that reorders the way records in the table are physically stored. Therefore table may have only one clustered index. Non-Non-Non-Clustered Index:- A Non-Clustered index is a special type of index in which the logical order of the index does not match the physical stored order of the rows in the disk. The leaf nodes of a non-clustered index do not consists of the data pages. Instead the leaf node contains index rows.

70. What is Trigger?

A trigger is a SQL procedure that initiates an action when an event (INSERT, DELETE or UPDATE) occurs. Triggers are stored in and managed by the DBMS.Triggers are used to maintain the referential integrity of data by changing the data in a systematic fashion. A trigger cannot be called or executed; the DBMS automatically fires the trigger as a result of a data modification to the associated table. Triggers can be viewed as similar to stored procedures in that both consist of procedural logic that is stored at the database level. Stored procedures, however, are not event-drive and are not attached to a specific table as triggers are. Stored procedures are explicitly executed by invoking a CALL to the procedure while triggers are implicitly executed. In addition, triggers can also execute stored procedures.

Nested Trigger: A trigger can also contain INSERT, UPDATE and DELETE logic within itself, so when the trigger is fired because of data modification it can also cause another data modification, thereby firing another trigger. A trigger that contains data modification logic within itself is called a nested trigger.

FAQ - Database Testing ( 51 to 60 )

2008-03-29T17:59:00.001+05:30

51. What is difference between Oracle & MS Access? What are the disadvantages in Oracle and MS Access? What are features in Oracle and MS Access?

Oracle's features for distributed transactions, materialized views and replication are not available with MS Access. These features enable oracle to efficiently store data for multinational companies across the globe. Also these features increase scalability of applications based on Oracle.

52. What will be the output of the following query? SELECT DECODE (TRANSLATE (‘A’,’1234567890’,’1111111111’), '1','YES', ‘NO’);?

No.
Explanation:
The query checks whether a given string is a numerical digit.

53. Given an employee and manager table, write a SQL syntax that could be used to find out an employee's manager's manager, assuming all managers are in the employee table?

It is assumed that u have created a single table for populating data of Employee and Manager (.a Manager is also an Employee so s/he will be residing in the same table).The sample data would be like thisEmployeeID ----- EmployeeName ------- ManagerID1 Akhtar 02 Bilal 13 Faheem 2** This query will return "Akhtar" for given EmployeeID = 3.SELECT m.EmployeeName FROM #EmpTemp m WHERE m.EmloyeeID = (SELECT e.ManagerID FROM #EmpTemp e WHERE e.EmloyeeID = (Select t.ManagerID FROM #EmpTemp t WHERE t.EmloyeeID = 3))** This is solution is workable in case of 3-levels only not even to 2-levels of hierarchy. An n-level solution can be achieved by writing a Recursive stored procedure and that will also be given soon.
The best query is to create the dummy table and then make the relations,SELECT EMP.EMPLOYEEID, EMP.EMPLOYEENAME, EMP.MANAGERID,EMPTEMP.EMPLOYEENAME MANAGERFROM EMPLOYEES EMP ,EMPLOYEES EMPTEMPWHERE EMP.MANAGERID=EMPTEMP.EMPLOYEEID

54. When using COUNT (DISTINCT) is it better to use a self-join or temp table to find redundant data, and provide an example?

Instead of this we can use GROUP BY Clause with HAVING condition.For ex,SELECT COUNT(*),LASTNAME FROM TBLUSERS GROUP BY LASTNAME HAVING COUNT(*)>1This query return the duplicated lastnames values in the lastname column from tblUsers table.

55. What are the advantages and disadvantages of primary key and foreign key in SQL?

Primary key
Advantages
1) It is a unique key on which all the other candidate keys are functionally dependent
Disadvantage
1) There can be more than one keys on which all the other attributes are dependent on.

Foreign Key
Advantage
1) It allows referencing another table using the primary key for the other table.

56. What is difference between Co-related sub query and nested sub query?

Correlated sub-query runs once for each row selected by the outer query. It contains a reference to a value from the row selected by the outer query.

Nested sub-query runs only once for the entire nesting (outer) query. It does not contain any reference to the outer query row.For example, Correlated Sub-query: SELECT E1.EMPNAME, E1.BASICSAL, E1.DEPTNO FROM EMP E1 WHERE E1.BASICSAL = (SELECT MAX (BASICSAL) FROM EMP E2 WHERE E2.DEPTNO = E1.DEPTNO)Nested Sub-query: SELECT EMPNAME, BASICSAL, DEPTNO FROM EMP WHERE (DEPTNO, BASICSAL) IN (SELECT DEPTNO, MAX(BASICSAL) FROM EMP GROUP BY DEPTNO)

57. What is the back end processes when we type "SELECT * FROM TABLE"?

First it will look into the System Global Area (SGA) weather the query is been executed earlier. If it exists, it would retrieve the same output present in memory. If not the query we typed is complied and the resulting parse tree and execution plan is been stored in SGA. Then query gets executed and output is given to the application.

58. What is a Cursor?

To retrieve data with SQL one row at a time you need to use cursor processing. Not all relational databases support this, but many do. Here I show this in Oracle with PL/SQL, which is Procedural Language SQL. Cursor processing is done in several steps:1. Define the rows you want to retrieve. This is called declaring the cursor.2. Open the cursor. This activates the cursor and loads the data. Note that declaring the cursor doesn't load data, opening the cursor does.3. Fetch the data into variables.4. Close the cursor.

59. What is Stored Procedure?

A stored procedure is a named group of SQL statements that have been previously created and stored in the server database. Stored procedures accept input parameters so that a single procedure can be used over the network by several clients using different input data. And when the procedure is modified, all clients automatically get the new version. Stored procedures reduce network traffic and improve performance. Stored procedures can be used to help ensure the integrity of the database. e.g. sp_helpdb, sp_renamedb, sp_depends etc.

60. How do I write a cron, which will run a SQL query and mail the results to a group?

Use DBMS_JOB for scheduling a cron job and DBMS_MAIL to send the results through email.

FAQ - Database Testing ( 41 to 50 )

2008-03-29T17:57:00.001+05:30

41. What command is used to get back the privileges offered by the GRANT command?

REVOKE

42. What are the privileges that can be granted on a table by a user to others?

INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, SELECT, REFERENCES, INDEX, EXECUTE, ALTER, ALL

43. Which is the subset of the SQL commands used to manipulate Oracle database structures?

Data Definition Language (DDL)

44. What is Materialized View?

A materialized view is a database object that contains the results of a query. They are local copies of data located remotely or used to create summary tables based on aggregation of a tables data. Materialized views, which store data based on the remote tables are also, know as snapshots.

45. How to write a SQL statement to find the first occurrence of a Non-Zero value?

There is a slight chance the column "a" has a value of 0 which is not null. In that case, you'll loose the information. There is another way of searching the first not null value of a column:SELECT COLUMN_NAME FROM TABLE_NAME WHERE COLUMN_NAME IS NOT NULL AND ROWNUM<2;>

46. Is there any query which is use to find the case sensitivity in each records in database through visual basic?

For case sensitive string comparison in SQL one has to use substring() and ascii() functions in the following way.Get first character of both strings using substring function as substring(str1, 1, 1)Find ascii value of both characters and compare.Put statements 1 and 2 in loop to advance to next characterFor example if (ascii(substring(str1, @pos, 1)) = ascii(substring(str2, @pos, 1)) then @pos = @pos + 1.

47. Which system table contains information on constraints on all the tables created?

USER_CONSTRAINTS

48. What operator tests column for the absence of data?

IS NULL operator.

49. If DELETE ANY TABLE in back-end then what are the triggers will fire automatically (Those triggers are back-end triggers only)?

Oracle has Schema triggers (CREATE OR REPLACE TRIGGER ... ON SCHEMA ... that will
file on DDL commands. You can do things like CREATE OR REPLACE TRIGGER SAVE_OUR_DBBEFORE DROP OR TRUNCATE ON SCHEMAto stop/log attempts to drop a table.

50. How to write a SQL statement to query the result set and display row as columns and columns as row?

TRANSFORM COUNT(ROLL_NO) AS COUNTOFROLL_NO SELECT ACADEMIC_STATUSFROM TBL_ENR_STATUS GROUP BY ACADEMIC_STATUS PIVOT CURNT_STATUS;

FAQ - Database Testing ( 31 to 40 )

2008-03-29T17:53:00.002+05:30

31. What operator performs pattern matching?

LIKE operator

32. What are three SQL keywords used to change or set someone’s permissions?

GRANT, DENY, and REVOKE.

33. What is the value of Comm & Sal after executing the following query if the initial value of 'Sal' is 10000?

UPDATE EMP SET SAL = SAL + 1000, COMM = SAL * 0.1;

Sal = 11000, Comm = 1000

34. What is the advantage to use trigger in your PL?

Triggers are fired implicitly on the tables/views on which they are created. There are various advantages of using a trigger. Some of them are:- Suppose we need to validate a DML statement (insert/Update/Delete) that modifies a table then we can write a trigger on the table that gets fired implicitly whenever DML statement is executed on that table.- Another reason of using triggers can be for automatic updating of one or more tables whenever a DML/DDL statement is executed for the table on which the trigger is created.- Triggers can be used to enforce constraints. For eg : Any insert/update/ Delete statements should not be allowed on a particular table after office hours. For enforcing this constraint Triggers should be used.

- Triggers can be used to publish information about database events to subscribers. Database event can be a system event like Database startup or shutdown or it can be a user even like User login in or user logoff.

35. Which command displays the SQL command in the SQL buffer, and then executes it?

You set the LIST or L command to get the recent one from SQL Buffer

36. What the difference between UNION and UNION ALL?

Union will remove the duplicate rows from the result set while Union all does not.

37. How to store directory structure in a database?

We can do it by the following command,

CREATE OR REPLACE DIRECTORY AS 'C:\TMP'

38. How to copy SQL table?

COPY FROM DATABASE TO DATABASE ACTION - DESTINATION_TABLE (COLUMN_NAME, COLUMN_NAME...) USING QUERY Example:COPY FROM SCOTT/TIGER@ORCL92 - TO SCOTT/TIGER@ORCL92- CREATE NEW_EMP – USING SELECT * FROM EMP;

39. Which command executes the contents of a specified file?

START or @

40. What are the different types of Normalization forms?

There are five normal forms. It is necessary for any database to be in the third normal form to maintain referential integrity and non-redundancy.

First Normal Form
Every field of a table (row, column) must contain an atomic value.

Second Normal Form
All columns of a table must depend entirely on the primary key column.

Third Normal Form
All columns of a table must depend on all columns of a composite primary key.

Fourth Normal Form
A table must not contain two or more independent multi-valued facts. This normal form is often avoided for maintenance reasons.

Fifth Normal Form
It is about symmetric dependencies.Each normal form assumes that the table is already in the earlier normal form.

FAQ - Database Testing ( 21 to 30 )

2008-03-29T17:49:00.002+05:30

21. There is Eno and Gender in a table. Eno has primary key and Gender has a check constraints for the values 'M' and 'F'. While inserting the data into the table, M was misspelled as F and F as M. What is the update statement to replace F with M and M with F?

UPDATE SET GENDER= CASE WHERE GENDER='F' THEN 'M'WHERE GENDER='M' THEN 'F';

22. What is the use of the DROP option in the ALTER TABLE command?

It is used to drop constraints specified on the table.

23. What is the difference between TRUNCATE and DELETE command?

Both will result in deleting all the rows in the table. TRUNCATE call cannot be rolled back as it is a DDL command and all memory space for that table is released back to the server TRUNCATE is much faster. Whereas DELETE call is an DML command and can be rolled back.

24. Consider the below statements,
TRUNCATE TABLE EMP;
DELETE FROM EMP;
Will the outputs of the above two commands differ?

Both will result in deleting all the rows in the table EMP.

25. What is the advantage of specifying WITH GRANT OPTION in the GRANT command?

The privilege receiver can further grant the privileges he/she has obtained from the owner to any other user.

26. Which date function is used to find the difference between two dates?

MONTHS_BETWEEN

27. Why you need indexing? Where that is stored and what you mean by schema object? For what purpose we are using view?

We can’t create an Index on Index. Index is stored in user_index table. Every object that has been created on Schema is Schema Object like Table, View etc. If we want to share the particular data to various users we have to use the virtual table for the Base table. So that is a view. Indexing is used for faster search or to retrieve data faster from various table. Schema containing set of tables, basically schema means logical separation of the database. View is crated for faster retrieval of data. It's customized virtual table. we can create a single view of multiple tables. Only the drawback is, view needs to be getting refreshed for retrieving updated data.

28. How to find second maximum value from table?

SELECT MAX (FIELD1) FROM TNAME1 WHERE FIELD1=(SELECT MAX (FIELD1) FROM TNAME1 WHERE FIELD1<(SELECT MAX (FIELD1) FROM TNAME1);Field1- Salary fieldTname= Table name.

29. How can we backup the SQL files?

You can backup the SQL files through backup utilities or some backup command in SQL. SAP is ERP software for the organization to integrate the software.

30. How to find out the 10th highest salary in SQL query?

Table - Tbl_Test_Salary Column - int_salarySELECT MAX (INT_SALARY) FROM TBL_TEST_SALARY WHERE INT_SALARY IN(SELECT TOP 10 INT_SALARY FROM TBL_TEST_SALARY ORDER BY INT_SALARY)

FAQ - Database Testing ( 11 to 20 )

2008-03-29T17:44:00.001+05:30

11. Which system table contains information on privileges granted and privileges
obtained?

USER_TAB_PRIVS_MADE, USER_TAB_PRIVS_RECD

12. Which system table contains information on constraints on all the tables created?

USER_CONSTRAINTS

13. What is the output of the following query SELECT TRUNC(1234.5678, -2) FROM DUAL;

1200

14. What is the use of DESC in SQL?

DESC has two purposes. It is used to describe a schema as well as to retrieve rows from table in descending order.
Explanation:
The query SELECT * FROM EMP ORDER BY ENAME DESC will display the output
sorted on ENAME in descending order.

15. State True or False: EXISTS, SOME, ANY are operators in SQL?

True

16. There are two tables, Employee and Department. There are few records in employee table, for which, the department is not assigned. The output of the query should contain all the employees’ names and their corresponding departments, if the department is assigned otherwise employee names and null value in the place department name. What is the query?

What you want to use here is called a left outer join with Employee table on the left side. A left outer join as the name says picks up all the records from the left table and based on the joint column picks the matching records from the right table and in case there are no matching records in the right table, it shows null for the selected columns of the right table. eg in this query which uses the key-word LEFT OUTER JOIN. Syntax though varies across databases. In DB2/UDB it uses the key word LEFT OUTER JOIN, in case of Oracle the connector is Employee_table.Dept_id *= Dept_table.Dept_idSQL Server/Sybase : Employee_table.Dept_id(+) = Dept_table.Dept_id

17. What command is used to create a table by copying the structure of another table?

CREATE TABLE.. AS SELECT command
Explanation:

To copy only the structure, the WHERE clause of the SELECT command should contain a false statement as in the following.
CREATE TABLE NEWTABLE AS SELECT * FROM EXISTINGTABLE WHERE 1=2;
If the WHERE condition is true, then all the rows or rows satisfying the condition will be copied to the new table.

18. State True or False: !=, <>, ^= all denotes the same operation?

True

19. Which function is used to find the largest integer less than or equal to a specific value?

FLOOR

20. What does the following query do?
SELECT SAL + NVL (COMM, 0) FROM EMP;
This displays the total salary of all employees. The null values in the commission column will be replaced by 0 and added to salary.

FAQ - Database Testing ( 01 to 10 )

2008-03-29T17:36:00.003+05:30

1. What is the use of CASCADE CONSTRAINTS?

When this clause is used with the DROP command, a parent table can be dropped even when a child table exists.

2. What are the different categories of SQL statements?

DDL, DML, DCL, Session Control, System Control.

3. What are the wildcards used for pattern matching?

Underscore (_) for single character substitution & % for multi-character substitution.

4. Why does the following command give a compilation error?
DROP TABLE &TABLE_NAME;

Variable names should start with an alphabet. Here the table name starts with ‘&' symbol. Any table name must start with alphabet. Table names starting with special characters are considered to be invalid hence give error.

5. How can I hide a particular table name of our schema?

You can hide the table name by creating synonyms.(e.g.) You can create a synonym y for table xcreate synonym y for x;

6. What is the parameter substitution symbol used with INSERT INTO command?

&

7. What will be the output of the following query?

SELECT REPLACE (TRANSLATE (LTRIM (RTRIM ('!!ATHEN!!','!'),'!'),'AN','**'),'*','TROUBLE') FROM DUAL;

Ans: TROUBLETHETROUBLE.

8. Difference between VARCHAR and VARCHAR2?

Varchar means fixed length character data (size) i.e., min size-1 and max-2000.
Varchar2 means variable length character data i.e., min-1 to max-4000.
Varchar assigns total length to data. Suppose we have name [20], now with the case of if we entered NARINDER, totally 20 cells will be occupied. But in case of varchar2, 8 cells of memory coz there are 8 elements in that data.

9. What is the difference between DBMS and RDBMS?

1. RDBMS = DBMS + Referential Integrity2. An RDBMS is one that follows 12 rules of CODD.

10. When we give SELECT * FROM EMP; How does oracle respond?

When u give SELECT * FROM EMP; the server check all the data in the EMP file and it displays the data of the EMP file. When we give select * from emp it will shows the records of table emp if the table contain records. If it hasn't any records then it will shows no rows selected.

Introduction to Database Testing

2008-03-28T15:37:00.002+05:30

What is a Database?

A database is a collection of data that is organized so that its contents can easily be accessed, managed and updated.

Basic Unix / Linux Commands

2008-03-28T15:35:00.011+05:30

You can find basic unix commands in the below link.

http://www.er.uqam.ca/nobel/r10735/unixcomm.html

http://www.computerhope.com/unix.htm

http://www.ee.surrey.ac.uk/Teaching/Unix/index.html

http://www.ss64.com/bash

http://www.unixguide.net/linux/linuxshortcuts.shtml

These are the wonderful site for unix / Linux. Browse through it. Its really great and interesting

FAQ - Automation - QTP (191 to 201)

2008-03-20T16:10:00.003+05:30

191. Where to use function or action?

Well answer depends on the scenario. If you want to use the OR feature then you have to go for Action only. If the functionality is not about any automation script i.e. a function like getting a string between to specific characters, now this is something not specific to QTP and can be done on pure VB Script, so this should be done in a function and not an action. Code specific to QTP can also be put into a function using DP. Decision of using function/action depends on what any one would be comfortable using in a given situation.

192. How can I check if a checkpoint passes or not?

code:
chk_PassFail = Browser(…).Page(…).WebEdit(…).Check (Checkpoint(”Check1″))
if chk_PassFail then
MsgBox “Check Point passed”
else
MsgBox “Check Point failed”
end if

193. My test fails due to checkpoint failing, Can I validate a checkpoint without my test failing due to checkpoint failure?

code:
Reporter.Filter = rfDisableAll ‘Disables all the reporting stuff
chk_PassFail = Browser(…).Page(…).WebEdit(…).Check (Checkpoint(”Check1″))
Reporter.Filter = rfEnableAll ‘Enable all the reporting stuff
if chk_PassFail then
MsgBox “Check Point passed”
else
MsgBox “Check Point failed”
end if

194. How can I import environment from a file on disk?

Environment.LoadFromFile “C:\Env.xml”

195. How can I check if an environment variable exists or not?

When we use Environment(”Param1″).value then QTP expects the environment variable to be already defined. But when we use Environment.value(”Param1″) then QTP will create a new internal environment variable if it does not exists already. So to be sure that variable exist in the environment try using Environment(”Param1″).value.

196. How to connect to a database?

code:
Const adOpenStatic = 3
Const adLockOptimistic = 3
Const adUseClient = 3
Set objConnection = CreateObject(”ADODB.Connection”)
Set objRecordset = CreateObject(”ADODB.Recordset”)
objConnection.Open “DRIVER={Microsoft ODBC for Oracle};UID=;PWD=“
objRecordset.CursorLocation = adUseClient
objRecordset.CursorType = adopenstatic
objRecordset.LockType = adlockoptimistic
ObjRecordset.Source=”select field1,field2 from testTable”
ObjRecordset.ActiveConnection=ObjConnection ObjRecordset.Open ‘This will execute your Query
If ObjRecordset.recordcount>0 then
Field1 = ObjRecordset(”Field1″).Value
Field2 = ObjRecordset(”Field2″).Value
End if

197. How to compare two Excel Sheets cell by cell?

This code will open two excel sheet and compare each sheet cell by cell, if any changes there in cells , it will highlight the cells in red color in the first sheet.

Set objExcel = CreateObject(”Excel.Application”)
objExcel.Visible = True
Set objWorkbook1= objExcel.Workbooks.Open(”C:\Documents andSettings\zakir\Desktop\zak1.xls”)
Set objWorkbook2= objExcel.Workbooks.Open(”C:\Documents andSettings\zakir\Desktop\zak2.xls”)

Set objWorksheet1= objWorkbook1.Worksheets(1)

Set objWorksheet2= objWorkbook2.Worksheets(1)

For Each cell In objWorksheet1.UsedRange
If cell.Value <> objWorksheet2.Range(cell.Address).Value Then
cell.Interior.ColorIndex = 3′Highlights in red color if any changes in cells
Else
cell.Interior.ColorIndex = 0
End If
Next

set objExcel=nothing

198. How to use sorting in Excel(Ascending and Descending)

Excel Sorting By Row:

Const xlAscending = 1
Const xlNo = 2
Const xlSortRows = 2

Set objExcel = CreateObject(”Excel.Application”)
objExcel.Visible = True

Set objWorkbook = objExcel.Workbooks.Open(”C:\Documents and Settings\zakir\Desktop\zak1.xls”)
Set objWorksheet = objWorkbook.Worksheets(1)
objWorksheet.Cells(1,1).activate

Set objRange = objExcel.ActiveCell.EntireRow
objRange.Sort objRange, xlAscending, , , , , , xlNo, , , xlSortRows
set objExcel=nothing

Excel Sorting By Column :

Const xlAscending = 1′represents the sorting type 1 for Ascending 2 for Desc
Const xlYes = 1

Set objExcel = CreateObject(”Excel.Application”)’Create the excel object
objExcel.Visible = True’Make excel visible
Set objWorkbook = _
objExcel.Workbooks.Open(”C:\Documents and Settings\zakir\Desktop\zak1.xls”)’ Open the document

Set objWorksheet = objWorkbook.Worksheets(1)’select the sheet based on the index .. 1,2 ,3 …
Set objRange = objWorksheet.UsedRange’which select the range of the cells has some data other than blank
Set objRange2 = objExcel.Range(”A1″)’ select the column to sort

objRange.Sort objRange2, xlAscending, , , , , , xlYes
set objExcel=nothing

199. Uninstall a software using VBscript in QTP

This works for uninstalling most applications. In this example I will show how AutoCAD 2005 can be uninstalled using a VBScript.

Open Regedit and look in HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall search for the application and find a the product code that is in GUID format looking like this: {5783F2D7-0301-0409-0002-0060B0CE6BBA} It might be something else for you. The code below will uninstall AutoCAD 2005 as well as Express Tools.

Copy the code below into Notepad and give the file the extension vbs.

on error resume next
Set WshShell = CreateObject(”WScript.Shell”)
‘ Uninstall Express Tools
WshShell.Run “msiexec /x {5783F2D7-0311-0409-0000-0060B0CE6BBA} /q”,1,true
‘ Uninstall AutoCAD 2005
WshShell.Run “msiexec /x {5783F2D7-0301-0409-0002-0060B0CE6BBA} /q”,1,true

200. How to create window application using VBscript?

using HTML Application (HTA)

An HTML Application (HTA) is a Microsoft Windows application written with HTML and Dynamic HTML. The ability to write HTAs was introduced with Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0.

HTAs can be made from regular HTML files by simply changing the file extension to .hta. A regular HTML file is confined to the security model of the web browser - i.e. to communicating with the server, manipulating the page’s object model (usually to validate forms and / or create interesting visual effects) and reading / writing cookies. An HTA runs as a fully trusted application and therefore has more privileges than a normal HTML file - for example an HTA can create / edit / remove files and registry entries.

Because an HTA has more privileges than an HTML page, it cannot be executed via http. Rather, the HTA must be downloaded (just like an EXE file) and executed from local file system.

201. What is a Dictionary Object

Dictionary Object stores data key, item pairs. A Dictionary object stores the items in the array. Each item is associated with a unique key. The key is used to retrieve an individual item and is usually an integer or a string, but can be anything except an array.

Advantages of using it in QTP:

1. can be used as Global variable declaration. so that any test can access the values from it in the run time.

2. You can store and retrieve any number of run time values in to dictionary.

3. It is one of the Parameterization techniques we can use in QTP

Disadvantages:

We can not specify the values in the design time like Datatable , Action parameters, environment variable.

So it is useful only in Runtime , not design time

FAQ - Automation - QTP (181 to 190)

2008-03-20T16:08:00.002+05:30

181. When should I use SMART Identification?

Something that people don’t think about too much. But the thing is that you should disable SI while creating your test cases. So that you are able to recognize the objects that are dynamic or inconsistent in their properties. When the script has been created, the SI should be enabled,so that the script does not fail in case of small changes. But the developer of the script should always check for the test results to verify if the SI feature was used to identify a object or not. Sometimes SI needs to be disabled for particular objects in the OR, this is advisable when you useSetTOProperty to change any of the TO properties of an object and especially ordinal identifiers like index, location and creation time.

182. What is a Recovery Scenario?

Recovery scenario gives you an option to take some action for recovering from a fatal error in the test. The error could range in from occasional to typical errors. Occasional error would be like “Out of paper” popup error while printing something and typical errors would be like “object is disabled” or “object not found”. A test case have more then one scenario associated with it and also have the priority or order in which it should be checked.

183. What does a Recovery Scenario consists of?

Trigger: Trigger is nothing but the cause for initiating the recovery scenario. It could be any popup window, any test error, particular state of an object or any application error. Action: Action defines what needs to be done if scenario has been triggered. It can consist of a mouse/keyboard event, close application, call a recovery function defined in library file or restart windows. You can have a series of all the specified actions.Post-recovery operation: Basically defined what need to be done after the recovery action has been taken. It could be to repeat the step, move to next step etc….

184. When to use a Recovery Scenario and when to us on error resume next?

Recovery scenarios are used when you cannot predict at what step the error can occur or when you know that error won’t occur in your QTP script but could occur in the world outside QTP, again the example would be “out of paper”, as this error is caused by printer device driver. “On error resume next” should be used when you know if an error is expected and don’t want to raise it, you may want to have different actions depending upon the error that occurred. Use err.number & err.description to get more details about the error.

185. How do we associate a library file with a test?

Library files are files containing normal VBScript code. The file can contain function, sub procedure, classes etc…. You can also use executefile function to include a file at run-time also. To associate a library file with your script go to Test->Settings… and add your library file to resources tab.

186. When to associate a library file with a test and when to use execute file?

When we associate a library file with the test, then all the functions within that library are available to all the actions present in the test. But when we use Executefile function to load a library file, then the function are available in the action that called executefile. By associated a library to a test we share variables across action (global variables basically), using association also makes it possible to execute code as soon as the script runs because while loading the script on startup QTP executes all the code on the global scope. We can use executefile in a library file associated with the test to load dynamic files and they will be available to all the actions in the test.

187. What is the difference between Test Objects and Run Time Objects?

Test objects are basic and generic objects that QTP recognize. Run time object means the actual object to which a test object maps.

188. Can I change properties of a test object?

Yes. You can use SetTOProperty to change the test object properties. It is recommended that you switch off the Smart Identification for the object on which you use SetTOProperty function.

189. Can I change properties of a run time object?

No (but Yes also). You can use GetROProperty(”outerText”) to get the outerText of a object but there is no function like SetROProperty to change this property. But you can use WebElement().object.outerText=”Something” to change the property.

190. What is the difference between an Action and a function?

Action is a thing specific to QTP while functions are a generic thing which is a feature of VB Scripting. Action can have a object repository associated with it while a function can’t. A function is just lines of code with some/none parameters and a single return value while an action can have more than one output parameters.

FAQ - Automation - QTP (171 to 180)

2008-03-20T16:07:00.002+05:30

171. In how many ways we can add check points to an application using QTP.

We can add checkpoints while recording the application or we can add after recording is completed using Active screen (Note : To perform the second one The Active screen must be enabled while recording).

172. How to Merge Object repositories?

With QTP 8.2 ,there is QTP Plus setup. It provides Repositories Merge Utility. The Object Repository Merge Utility enables user to merge Object repository files into a single Object repository file.

173. Explain the need to use analog recording in qtp?

This mode records exact mouse and Key Board operations you perform in relation to the screen /Application Window. This mode is useful for the operation which you can record at Object Level, such as drawing a picture, recording signature. The steps recorded using Analog Mode is saved in separated data file, Quick Tests add to your Test a Run Analog File statement that calls the recorded analog File. This file is stored with your action in which these Analog Steps are created. The Step recorded in Analog mode can not be edited within QT.

174. When and Why to use Descriptive programming?

Below are some of the situations when Descriptive Programming can be considered useful:
The objects in the application are dynamic in nature and need special handling to identify the object. The best example would be of clicking a link which changes according to the user of the application,

Ex. “Logout <>”.
When object repository is getting huge due to the no. of objects being added. If the size of Object repository increases too much then it decreases the performance of QTP while recognizing an object.
When you don’t want to use object repository at all.

175. Well the first question would be why not Object repository?

Consider the following scenario which would help understand why not object repository Scenario

1: Suppose we have a web application that has not been developed yet. Now QTP for recording the script and adding the objects to repository needs the application to be up, that would mean waiting for the application to be deployed before we can start of with making QTP scripts. But if we know the descriptions of the objects that will be created then we can still start off with the script writing for testing scenario

2: Suppose an application has 3 navigation buttons on each and every page. Let the buttons be “Cancel”, “Back” and “Next”. Now recording action on these buttons would add 3 objects per page in the repository. For a 10 page flow this would mean 30 objects which could have been represented just by using 3 objects. So instead of adding these 30 objects to the repository we can just write 3 descriptions for the object and use it on any page. Modification to a test case is needed but the Object repository for the same is Read only or in shared mode i.e. changes may affect other scripts as well. When you want to take action on similar type of object i.e. suppose we have 20 textboxes on the page and there names are in the form txt_1, txt_2, txt_3 and so on. Now adding all 20 the Object repository would not be a good programming approach.

176. How do I check if property exists or not in the collection?

The answer is that it’s not possible. Because whenever we try to access a property which is not defined its automatically added to the collection. The only way to determine is to check its value that is use a if statement “if obj_ChkDesc(“html tag”).value = empty then”.

177. How to browse through all the properties of a properties collection?

Two ways

                  1st:

                                For each desc in obj_ChkDesc

                                Name=desc.Name

                                Value=desc.Value

                                RE = desc.regularexpression

                                Next

                 2nd:

                                For i=0 to obj_ChkDesc.count - 1

                                Name= obj_ChkDesc(i).Name

                                Value= obj_ChkDesc(i).Value

                                RE = obj_ChkDesc(i).regularexpression

                                Next

178. How can I check if a parameter exists in Datatable or not?

The best way would be to use the below code:
code:
on error resume next
val=DataTable(”ParamName”,dtGlobalSheet)
if err.number<> 0 then
‘Parameter does not exist
else
‘Parameter exists
end if

179. How can I make some rows colored in the data table?

Well you can’t do it normally but you can use Excel COM API’s do the same. Below code will explain some expects of Excel COM APIscode:
Set xlApp=Createobject(”Excel.Application”)
set xlWorkBook=xlApp.workbooks.add
set xlWorkSheet=xlWorkbook.worksheet.add
xlWorkSheet.Range(”A1:B10″).interior.colorindex = 34 ‘Change the color of the cells
xlWorkSheet.Range(”A1:A10″).value=”text” ‘Will set values of all 10 rows to “text”
xlWorkSheet.Cells(1,1).value=”Text” ‘Will set the value of first row and first colrowsCount=xlWorkSheet.Evaluate(”COUNTA(A:A)”) ‘Will count the # of rows which have non blank value in the column A
colsCount=xlWorkSheet.Evaluate(”COUNTA(1:1)”) ‘Will count the # of non blank columns in 1st row xlWorkbook.SaveAs “C:\Test.xls”
xlWorkBook.Close
Set xlWorkSheet=Nothing
Set xlWorkBook=Nothing
set xlApp=Nothing

180. SMART Identification

Smart Identification is nothing but an algorithm used by QTP when it is not able to recognize one of the object. A very generic example as per the QTP manual would be, A photograph of a 8 year old girl and boy and QTP records identification properties of that girl when she was 8, now when both are 10 years old then QTP would not be able to recognize the girl. But there is something that is still the same, that is there is only one girl in the photograph. So it kind of PI (Programmed intelligence) not AI.

FAQ - Automation - QTP (161 to 170)

2008-03-20T16:06:00.002+05:30

161. How to retrieve the property of an object?

using “GetRoProperty”.

162. How to open any application during Scripting?

SystemUtil , object used to open and close applications and processes during a run session.
(a) A SystemUtil.Run statement is automatically added to your test when you run an application from the Start menu or the Run dialog box while recording a test
E.g : SystemUtil.Run “Notepad.exe” SystemUtil.CloseDescendentProcesses ( Closes all the processes opened by QTP )

163. How to covert a String to an integer?

CInt()—> a conversion function available.

164. How you can enhance your test?

There are a variety of options to enhance your test:

(1) You can add checkpoints to your test. A checkpoint is a step in your test that compares the values of the specified property during a test run with the values stored for the same test object property within the test. This enables you to identify whether or not your Web site or application is functioning correctly.

(2) You can parameterize your test to replace fixed values with values from an external source during your test run. The values can come from a Data Table, environment variables you define, or values that QuickTest generates during the test run.

(3)You can retrieve values from your test and store them in the Data Table as output values. You can subsequently use these values as an input parameter in your test. This enables you to use data retrieved during a test in other parts of the test.

(4) You can divide your test into actions to streamline the testing process of your Web site or application.

(5)You can use special QuickTest options to enhance your test with programming statements. The Step Generator guides you step-by-step through the process of adding recordable and non-recordable methods to your test. You can also synchronize your test to ensure that your application is ready for QuickTest to perform the next step in your test, and you can measure the amount of time it takes for your application to perform steps in a test by defining and measuring transactions.

(6)You can also manually enter standard VBScript statements, as well as statements using QuickTest test objects and methods, in the Expert View.

165. Explain different recording modes?

QuickTest’s normal recording mode records the objects in your application and the operations performed on them. This mode is the default and takes full advantage of QuickTest’s test object model, recognizing the objects in your application regardless of their location on the screen. Analog Recording - enables you to record the exact mouse and keyboard operations you perform in relation to either the screen or the application window. In this recording mode, QuickTest records and tracks every movement of the mouse as you drag the mouse around a screen or window. This mode is useful for recording operations that cannot be recorded at the level of an object, for example, recording a signature produced by dragging the mouse.

Note: You cannot edit analog recording steps from within QuickTest. ?

Low-Level Recording - enables you to record on any object in your application, whether or not QuickTest recognizes the specific object or the specific operation. This mode records at the object level and records all run-time objects as Window or WinObject test objects. Use low-level recording for recording tests in an environment or on an object not recognized by QuickTest. You can also use low-level recording if the exact coordinates of the object are important for your test. Note: Steps recorded using low-level mode may not run correctly on all objects.

166. What is parameter?

A parameter is a variable that is assigned a value from an external data source or generator. If you wish to parameterize the same value in several steps in your test or component, you may want to consider using the Data Driver rather than adding parameters manually.

167. How many types of parameters are there?

There are four types of parameters:

1. Test, action or component parameters

2. Data Table parameters

3. Environment variable parameters

4. Random number parameters Test, action or component parameters enable you to use values passed from your test or component, or values from other actions in your test.0 Data Table parameters enable you to create a data-driven test (or action) that runs several times using the data you supply. In each repetition, or iteration, QuickTest uses a different value from the Data Table. Environment variable parameters enable you to use variable values from other sources during the run session. These may be values you supply, or values that QuickTest generates for you based on conditions and options you choose. Random number parameters enable you to insert random numbers as values in your test or component.

168. How Does Run time data (Parameterization) is handled in QTP?

You can then enter test data into the Data Table, an integrated spreadsheet with the full functionality of Excel, to manipulate data sets and create multiple test iterations, without programming, to expand test case coverage. Data can be typed in or imported from databases, spreadsheets, or text files.

169. Explain about the Test Fusion Report of QTP ?

Once a tester has run a test, a TestFusion report displays all aspects of the test run: a high-level results overview, an expandable Tree View of the test specifying exactly where application failures occurred, the test data used, application screen shots for every step that highlight any discrepancies, and detailed explanations of each checkpoint pass and failure. By combining TestFusion reports with QuickTest Professional, you can share reports across an entire QA and development team.

170. How QTP recognizes Objects in AUT?

QuickTest stores the definitions for application objects in a file called the Object Repository. As you record your test, QuickTest will add an entry for each item you interact with. Each Object Repository entry will be identified by a logical name (determined automatically by QuickTest), and will contain a set of properties (type, name, etc) that uniquely identify each object. Each line in the QuickTest script will contain a reference to the object that you interacted with, a call to the appropriate method (set, click, check) and any parameters for that method (such as the value for a call to the set method). The references to objects in the script will all be identified by the logical name, rather than any physical, descriptive properties.

FAQ - Automation - QTP (151 to 160)

2008-03-20T16:05:00.002+05:30

151. What is Framework?

A framework is nothing but a folder structure. It contains all the components that are using in Automation Architecture. Here components mean Object Repository, Library, Logs, Test Data, Script, Result etc

152. What are Compiled modules?

In QTP the compiled modules are called library files.

153. What is Automation Framework?

Automation frame work is nothing but a set of rules defined for developing and organizing the test scripts or it is a process to develop the automation scripts and reduce maintenance. This framework completely depends on the application, types of testing and tools that you are using. It’s hard to provide generalized framework for all applications:

154. In how many ways we can parameterize our test?

We can parameterize our tests in 4 ways.

* Test or component parameter
* Data Table parameter
* Environmental variable parameter
* Random number parameter

155. What are types of Table?

Types of tables are

* run time data table
* design time data table

156. How to add a text checkpoint to your test to check whether ‘welcome’ is displayed in your welcome page.

1 Locate the page where you want to add a text checkpoint.

2 Create a text checkpoint.
In the Active Screen, under your page highlight the text welcome. Right-click the highlighted text and choose Insert Text Checkpoint. The Text Checkpoint Properties dialog box opens.
When Checked Text appears in the list box, the Constant field displays the text string you highlighted. This is the text QuickTest looks for when running the test.
Click OK to accept the default settings in this dialog box.
QuickTest adds the text checkpoint to your test. It is displayed in the Keyword View as a checkpoint operation on your welcome page

3 Save the test.

157. How to Run and Analyze a Test with Checkpoints?

1 Expand the test and review your test.
Choose View > Expand All or use the * shortcut key on your number keypad.

2 Start running your test.
Click Run or choose Test > Run. The Run dialog box opens. Ensure that New run results folder is selected. Accept the default results folder name. Click OK. When the test run is completed, the Test Results window opens.

3 View the test results.
When QuickTest finishes running the test, the Test Results window opens. The test result should be passed, indicating that all checkpoints passed. If one or more checkpoints had failed, the test result would be failed.

4 View the results of the page checkpoint.
In the Details pane, you can review the details of the page checkpoint, which lists the items checked.

5 View the results of the table checkpoint.
In the Details pane, you can review the details of the table checkpoint. You can also review the values of the table cells (cell values that were checked are displayed in black; cell values that were not checked are displayed in gray).

6 View the results of the standard checkpoint.
In the Details pane, you can review the details of the standard checkpoint, which lists the properties that were checked and their values. The checkpoint passed because the actual values of the checked properties match the expected values.

7 View the results of the text checkpoint.
In the Details pane, you can review the details of the text checkpoint. The checkpoint passed because the actual text matches the expected text.

8 Close the Test Results window. Choose File > Exit.

158. How to Defining a Data Table Parameter for QTP?

1 Start QuickTest and open the Checkpoint test.
2 Save the test as Parameter.
3 Confirm that the Active Screen option is enabled.
4 Confirm that the Data Table option is enabled.
5 Select the text to parameterize.
6 Set the parameterization properties.

159. How to add a runtime parameter to a datasheet?

DataTable.LocalSheet
The following example uses the LocalSheet property to return the local sheet of the run-time Data Table in order to add a parameter (column) to it.
MyParam=DataTable.LocalSheet.AddParameter(”Time”, “5:45″)

160. How to change the run-time value of a property for an object?

SetTOProperty changes the property values used to identify an object during the test run. Only properties that are included in the test object description can be set

FAQ - Automation - QTP (141 to 150)

2008-03-20T16:03:00.003+05:30

141. What is use of Step Generator?

Step Generator is used to insert a statement (function row method) of a particular object which is available in the Object Repository

142. What is Source Control?

The practice of tracking changes made to code is called Source Control.
Familiar Source control Tools are CVS, VSS, ClearCase etc

143. What is Batch testing?

Group of tests executing sequentially one by one is called Batch Testing. Every test Batch consists of multiple dependent test cases. In those batches every end state is base state to next case. Test batch is also known as Test suit or Test belt.

Generally Test engineers are executing test programs as batches because "End state of one test is base state to another test".
The result of one Script failure or pass, fails or passes the whole batch test.

144. What will you do when Object is not identified by the Object Repository?

Use Smart identification.

145. What is Smart identification?

Smart Identification is used by QTP, whenever it is unable to identify any object during run time. While identifying an object, QTP tries to match the mandatory properties first, if it couldn't find the object, then it adds assistive properties one by one to identify the object correctly. This operation is done by smart identifier and it is displayed in the results section along with one warning message. It's generally used to identify Web elements only.

146. What is Environment variable?

Environment variable is variable which is global through the testing.

147. What are the types of Environment variable?

There are 3 types of environmental variables

* User-Defined Internal
* User-Defined External
* Built-In

148. What are Exceptions in QTP?

The four exceptions are

* Pop exception
* Object state
* Test run error
* Application crash

149. Can we use Test Director with QTP?

Yes. We can use QTP 8.2 with Test director 8.0.
But we can’t use Test Director 7.2 with QTP 8.2. Because QTP 8.2 supports QC (Quality Center)

150. What are the types of Actions?

There are 3 types of Actions available in QTP.

* Non-reusable
* Reusable
* External Actions

FAQ - Automation - QTP (131 to 140)

2008-03-20T16:02:00.004+05:30

131. What are the draw backs of QTP?

Disadvantages are
* QTP takes very long to open huge tests. Also CPU utilization becomes 100% in that case.
* QTP scripts are heavy as it stores all the html files (for active screen) as well.
* Block commenting is not provided till 8.2 version.

132. What are the extension of file..........

* Per test object repository : filename.mtr (Mercury Test Repository)
* Shared Object repository : filename.tsr (Test Shared Repository)
* User Defined Library File : filename .vbs
* Test Batch Runner File : filename .mtb
* QTP Recovery Scenario File : filename .qrs

133. What are two types of automation in QTP ?

There are 2 types of automation
* Recording or generating the script and playing back using Repository
* Another one is Descriptive method.

134. What is Object repository?

Object repository in qtp is like a storage place where it stores the properties of all the objects when we record the script and later when we execute the script QTP checks that the objects in the application match the objects in the object repository and executes it, if both the objects matches the test will pass, if it cannot identify the object or there is a mismatch the script will fail.

Object repository is same as GUI map in winrunner where we have to make the tool capture the properties of object where as in QTP object repository automatically does that for us.

135. Tell about Per-action repository modes

In this, for each action a separate object repository file is created. So object1 in Action1 is different from the same object1 in Action2
This mode is most useful, when the object does not change frequently and a few actions are associated with the test. If the object changes in the application, then we need to change each of the object repositories.

136. Tell about Shared object repository modes

In this, common object repository file can be used for multiple actions and multiple tests. So Object1 is action1 is same for Action2, because all the objects are saved at one place. Here if the object changes, then we need to update a single object repository files.

137. What is the Advantage & Disadvantage Per-action repository?

Advantages

* As you record operations on objects in your application, QuickTest automatically stores the information about those objects in the appropriate action object repository.
* When you save your test, all of the action object repositories are automatically saved with the test as part of each action within the test. The action object repository is not accessible as a separate file (as is the shared object repository).

Disadvantages

* Modifying the test object properties, values, or names in one object repository does not affect the information stored for the same test object in another object repository or in other tests - Time Consuming
* If you add objects to one of the split actions, the new objects are added only to the corresponding action object repository.

138. What are the Advantage & Disadvantage Shared object repository?

Advantages

* Only one instance of the object in the repository so reduce the repetitions
* one time change to the object properties would bring change in every script using the object

Disadvantage

* Complexity increase as objects of all the action are in the same repository

139. Can we change the name of the Check points?

QTP does not allow changing the name of Check point in QTP 8.x, because these class names are internally built. But in version 9.x it is possible to change.

140. What is a Transaction?

A Transaction is a logical unit of work that comprises one or more SQL statements executed by a single user or it is a group of statements between two commits

FAQ - Automation - QTP (121 to 130)

2008-03-20T16:02:00.003+05:30

121. Discuss QTP Environment.

QuickTest Pro environment using the graphical interface and ActiveScreen technologies - A testing process for creating test scripts, relating manual test requirements to automated verification features - Data driving to use several sets of data using one test script.

122. Explain the concept of how QTP identifies object.

During recording QTP looks at the object and stores it as test object. For each test object QT learns a set of default properties called mandatory properties, and look at the rest of the objects to check whether this properties are enough to uniquely identify the object. During test run, QTP searches for the run time objects that match with the test object it learned while recording.

123. Object Repositories types, which & when to use?

Deciding Which Object Repository Mode to Choose
To choose the default object repository mode and the appropriate object repository mode for each test, you need to understand the differences between the two modes.
In general, the object repository per-action mode is easiest to use when you are creating simple record and run tests, especially under the following conditions: You have only one, or very few, tests that correspond to a given application, interface, or set of objects.
You do not expect to frequently modify test object properties.
You generally create single-action tests.
Conversely, the shared object repository mode is generally the preferred mode when: You have several tests that test elements of the same application, interface, or set of objects.
You expect the object properties in your application to change from time to time and/or you regularly need to update or modify test object properties.
You often work with multi-action tests and regularly use the Insert Copy of Action and Insert Call to Action options.

124. Can we Script any test case with out having Object repository? Or Using Object Repository is a must?

No. You can script without Object repository by knowing the Window Handlers, spying and recognizing the objects logical names and properties available.

125. How to execute a WinRunner Script in QTP?

(a) TSLTest.RunTest TestPath, TestSet [, Parameters ] –> Used in QTP 6.0 used for backward compatibility Parameters : The test set within Quality
Center, in which test runs are stored. Note that this argument is relevant only when working with a test in a Quality
Center project. When the test is not saved in Quality
Center, this parameter is ignored.
e.g : TSLTest.RunTest “D:\test1″, “”

(b) TSLTest.RunTestEx TestPath, RunMinimized, CloseApp [, Parameters ] TSLTest.RunTestEx “C:\WinRunner\Tests\basic_flight”, TRUE, FALSE, “MyValue” CloseApp : Indicates whether to close the WinRunner application when the WinRunner test run ends. Parameters : Up to 15 WinRunner function argument

126. How to clear the AutoComplete?

1 In your Internet Explorer’s menu bar, choose Tools > Internet Options > Content tab.
2 Click AutoComplete in the Personal information area. The AutoComplete Settings dialog box opens.
3 In the Use AutoComplete for area, clear the User names and passwords on forms option.
4 Click OK to save your changes and close the AutoComplete Settings dialog box, then click OK again to close the Internet Options dialog box.

127. What is Object Spy in QTP?

Using the Object Spy, you can view the properties of any object in an open application. You use the Object Spy pointer to point to an object. The Object Spy displays the selected object’s hierarchy tree and its properties and values in the Properties tab of the Object Spy dialog box.

128. What is the Diff between Image check-point and Bit map Check point?

Image checkpoints enable you to check the properties of a Web image. You can check an area of a Web page or application as a bitmap. While creating a test or component, you specify the area you want to check by selecting an object. You can check an entire object or any area within an object. QuickTest captures the specified object as a bitmap, and inserts a checkpoint in the test or component. You can also choose to save only the selected area of the object with your test or component in order to save disk Space For example, suppose you have a Web site that can display a map of a city the user specifies. The map has control keys for zooming. You can record the new map that is displayed after one click on the control key that zooms in the map. Using the bitmap checkpoint, you can check that the map zooms in correctly.
You can create bitmap checkpoints for all supported testing environments (as long as the appropriate add-ins are loaded).
Note: The results of bitmap checkpoints may be affected by factors such as operating system, screen resolution, and color settings.

129. How many ways we can parameterize data in QTP ?

There are four types of parameters:
Test, action or component parameters enable you to use values passed from your test or component, or values from other actions in your test.
Data Table parameters enable you to create a data-driven test (or action) that runs several times using the data you supply. In each repetition, or iteration, QuickTest uses a different value from the Data Table.
Environment variable parameters enable you to use variable values from other sources during the run session. These may be values you supply, or values that QuickTest generates for you based on conditions and options you choose.
Random number parameters enable you to insert random numbers as values in your test or component. For example, to check how your application handles small and large ticket orders, you can have QuickTest generate a random number and insert it in a number of tickets edit field.

130. What are the Debugging modes used in QTP?

Different Debugging modes used in QTP are
* Step Into : To run only the current line of the active test or component.
* Step Out : Runs to the end of the called action or user-defined function, then returns to the calling action and pauses the run session.
* Step Over : to run only the current step in the active test or component. When the current step calls another action or a user-defined function, the called action or function is executed entirety, but the called action script is not displayed in the QuickTest window.

FAQ - Automation - QTP (111 to 120)

2008-03-20T16:01:00.002+05:30

111. If an application name is changes frequently i.e while recording it has name “Window1” and then while running its “Windows2” in this case how does QTP handles?

QTP handles those situations using “Regular Expressions..

112. Table and DB Checkpoints:

By adding table checkpoints to your tests or components, you can check that a specified value is displayed in a cell in a table on your application. By adding database checkpoints to your tests or components, you can check the contents of databases accessed by your application. The results displayed for table and database checkpoints are similar. When you run your test or component, QuickTest compares the expected results of the checkpoint to the actual results of the run session. If the results do not match, the checkpoint fails. You can check that a specified value is displayed in a cell in a table by adding a table checkpoint to your test or component. For ActiveX tables, you can also check the properties of the table object. To add a table checkpoint, you use the Checkpoint Properties dialog box. Table checkpoints are supported for Web and ActiveX applications, as well as for a variety of external add-in environments. You can use database checkpoints in your test or component to check databases accessed by your Web site or application and to detect defects. You define a query on your database, and then you create a database checkpoint that checks the results of the query. Database checkpoints are supported for all environments supported by QuickTest, by default, as well as for a variety of external add-in environments. There are two ways to define a database query:
(a) Use Microsoft Query. You can install Microsoft Query from the custom installation of Microsoft Office.
(b) Manually define an SQL statement.
The Checkpoint timeout option is available only when creating a table checkpoint. It is not available when creating a database checkpoint

113. Checking Bitmaps:

You can check an area of a Web page or application as a bitmap. While creating a test or component, you specify the area you want to check by selecting an object. You can check an entire object or any area within an object. QuickTest captures the specified object as a bitmap, and inserts a checkpoint in the test or component. You can also choose to save only the selected area of the object with your test or component in order to save disk space. When you run the test or component, QuickTest compares the object or selected area of the object currently displayed on the Web page or application with the bitmap stored when the test or component was recorded. If there are differences, QuickTest captures a bitmap of the actual object and displays it with the expected bitmap in the details portion of the Test Results window. By comparing the two bitmaps (expected and actual), you can identify the nature of the discrepancy. For more information on test results of a checkpoint, see Viewing Checkpoint Results. For example, suppose you have a Web site that can display a map of a city the user specifies. The map has control keys for zooming. You can record the new map that is displayed after one click on the control key that zooms in the map. Using the bitmap checkpoint, you can check that the map zooms incorrectly. You can create bitmap checkpoints for all supported testing environments (as long as the appropriate add-ins are loaded). Note: The results of bitmap checkpoints may be affected by factors such as operating system, screen resolution, and color settings.

114. Text/Text Area Checkpoint :

In the Text/Text Area Checkpoint Properties dialog box, you can specify the text to be checked as well as which text is displayed before and after the checked text. These configuration options are particularly helpful when the text string you want to check appears several times or when it could change in a predictable way during run sessions.

Note: In Windows-based environments, if there is more than one line of text selected, the Checkpoint Summary pane displays [complex value] instead of the selected text string. You can then click Configure to view and manipulate the actual selected text for the checkpoint. QuickTest automatically displays the Checked Text in red and the text before and after the Checked Text in blue. For text area checkpoints, only the text string captured from the defined area is displayed (Text Before and Text After are not displayed). To designate parts of the captured string as Checked Text and other parts as Text Before and Text After, click the Configure button. The Configure Text Selection dialog box opens

115. Checking XML :

XML (Extensible Markup Language) is a meta-markup language for text documents that is endorsed as a standard by the W3C. XML makes the complex data structures portable between different computer environments/operating systems and programming languages, facilitating the sharing of data.
XML files contain text with simple tags that describe the data within an XML document. These tags describe the data content, but not the presentation of the data. Applications that display an XML document or file use either Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) or XSL Formatting Objects (XSL-FO) to present the data.
You can verify the data content of XML files by inserting XML checkpoints. A few common uses of XML checkpoints are described below:
An XML file can be a static data file that is accessed in order to retrieve commonly used data for which a quick response time is needed—for example, country names, zip codes, or area codes. Although this data can change over time, it is normally quite static. You can use an XML file checkpoint to validate that the data has not changed from one application release to another.
An XML file can consist of elements with attributes and values (character data). There is a parent and child relationship between the elements, and elements can have attributes associated with them. If any part of this structure (including data) changes, your application’s ability to process the XML file may be affected. Using an XML checkpoint, you can check the content of an element to make sure that its tags, attributes, and values have not changed. XML files are often an intermediary that retrieves dynamically changing data from one system. The data is then accessed by another system using Document Type Definitions (DTD), enabling the accessing system to read and display the information in the file. You can use an XML checkpoint and parameterize the captured data values in order to check an XML document or file whose data changes in a predictable way. XML documents and files often need a well-defined structure in order to be portable across platforms and development systems. One way to accomplish this is by developing an XML schema, which describes the structure of the XML elements and data types. You can use schema validation to check that each item of content in an XML file adheres to the schema description of the element in which the content is to be placed.

116. What information do the columns in the Keyword View show for each step?

As you recorded your test, QuickTest generated steps in the Keyword View representing each operation you performed in the Web browser.
The columns in the Keyword View show different information for each step, as follows:. Item—Displays the item for the step (test object, utility object, function call, or statement) in a hierarchical icon-based tree.
Operation—The operation to be performed on the item, for example, Click or Select.
Value—The argument values for the selected operation, for example, the mouse button to use when clicking the image.
Assignment—The assignment of a value to or from a variable so you can use the value later in the test.
Comment—Any textual information you want to add regarding the step, for example, Return to page used in first step of the test.
Documentation—Auto-documentation of what the step does, in an easy-to-understand sentence, for example, Click the “findFlights” image.

117. Why use Regular Expressions?

You created a text checkpoint that searched for a specific text string. You can use regular expressions to increase the flexibility and adaptability of your tests.
Regular expressions enable QuickTest to identify objects and text strings with varying values. You can use regular expressions when defining the properties of an object, the methods of an argument, when parameterizing a step, and when creating checkpoints with varying values.

118. Explain the check points in QTP?

A checkpoint verifies that expected information is displayed in an Application while the test is running. You can add eight types of checkpoints to your test for standard web objects using QTP.

* A page checkpoint checks the characteristics of an Application
* A text checkpoint checks that a text string is displayed in the appropriate place on an Application.
* An object checkpoint (Standard) checks the values of an object on an Application.
* An image checkpoint checks the values of an image on an Application.
* A table checkpoint checks information within a table on an Application
* an Accessibility checkpoint checks the web page for Section 508 compliance.
* An XML checkpoint checks the contents of individual XML data files or XML documents that are part of your Web application.
* A database checkpoint checks the contents of databases accessed by your web site

119. In how many ways we can add check points to an application using QTP.

120. Explain in brief about the QTP Automation Object Model.

Essentially all configuration and run functionality provided via the QuickTest interface is in some way represented in the QuickTest automation object model via objects, methods, and properties. Although a one-on-one comparison cannot always be made, most dialog boxes in QuickTest have a corresponding automation object, most options in dialog boxes can be set and/or retrieved using the corresponding object property, and most menu commands and other operations have corresponding automation methods. You can use the objects, methods, and properties exposed by the QuickTest automation object model, along with standard programming elements such as loops and conditional statements to design your program.

FAQ - Automation - QTP (101 to 110)

2008-03-20T15:59:00.002+05:30

101. How to add a page checkpoint to your test?

The page checkpoint checks that the number of links and images in the page when you run your test is the same as when you recorded your test.

1 Locate the page where you want to add a page checkpoint.
2 Create a page checkpoint.
Right-click anywhere in the Active Screen, and choose Insert Standard Checkpoint. The Object Selection - Checkpoint Properties dialog box opens. Note that this dialog box may include different elements, depending on where you click in the Active Screen.
3 Save the test.

102. How Does Run time data (Parameterization) is handled in QTP?

103. What is keyword view and Expert view in QTP?

QuickTest’s Keyword Driven approach, test automation experts have full access to the underlying test and object properties, via an integrated scripting and debugging environment that is round-trip synchronized with the Keyword View. Advanced testers can view and edit their tests in the Expert View, which reveals the underlying industry-standard VBScript that QuickTest Professional automatically generates. Any changes made in the Expert View are automatically synchronized with the Keyword View.

104. How QTP recognizes Objects in AUT?

105. What are the types of Object Repositories in QTP?

QuickTest has two types of object repositories for storing object information: shared object repositories and action object repositories. You can choose which type of object repository you want to use as the default type for new tests, and you can change the default as necessary for each new test. The object repository per-action mode is the default setting. In this mode, QuickTest automatically creates an object repository file for each action in your test so that you can create and run tests without creating, choosing, or modifying object repository files. However, if you do modify values in an action object repository, your changes do not have any effect on other actions. Therefore, if the same test object exists in more than one action and you modify an object’s property values in one action, you may need to make the same change in every action (and any test) containing the object. If I give some thousand tests to execute in 2 days what do u do? Adhoc testing is done. It covers the least basic functionalities to verify that the system is working fine. Does QTP is “Unicode” compatible? QTP 6.5 is not but QTP 8.0 is expected to be Unicode compatible by end of December 2004.

106. How to “Turn Off” QTP results after running a Script?

Goto “Tools > Options > Run Tab” and Deselect “View results when run session ends”. But this suppresses only the result window, but a log will be created and can viewed manually which cannot be restricted from getting created.

107. Explain about the Test Fusion Report of QTP ?

108. To which environments do QTP supports ?

QuickTest Professional supports functional testing of all enterprise environments, including Windows, Web, ..NET, Java/J2EE, SAP, Siebel, Oracle, PeopleSoft, Visual Basic, ActiveX, mainframe terminal emulators, and Web services.

109. What’s QuickTest Window?

Before you begin creating tests, you should familiarize yourself with the main QuickTest window.
The QuickTest window contains the following key elements:
Title bar—Displays the name of the currently open test.
Menu bar—Displays menus of QuickTest commands.
File toolbar—Contains buttons to assist you in managing your test.
Testing toolbar—Contains buttons to assist you in the testing process.
Debug toolbar—Contains buttons to assist you in debugging tests.
Test pane—Contains the Keyword View and Expert View tabs.
Active Screen—Provides a snapshot of your application as it appeared when you performed a certain step during the recording session.
Data Table—Assists you in parameterizing your test.
Debug Viewer pane—Assists you in debugging your test. The Debug Viewer pane contains the Watch Expressions, Variables, and Command tabs. (The Debug Viewer pane is not displayed when you open QuickTest for the first time. You can display the Debug Viewer by choosing View <>Status bar—Displays the status of the QuickTest application.

110. How does QTP identifies the object in the application

QTP identifies the object in the application by LogicalName and Class.
For example :
The Edit box is identified by
Logical Name : PSOPTIONS_BSE_TIME20
Class: WebEdit

FAQ - Automation - QTP ( 91 to 100 )

2008-03-20T15:58:00.001+05:30

91. How does Parameterization and Data-Driving relate to each other in QTP?

To datadrive we have to parameterize.i.e. we have to make the constant value as parameter, so that in each iteration(cycle) it takes a value that is supplied in run-time datatable. Through parameterization only we can drive a transaction(action) with different sets of data. You know running the script with the same set of data several times is not suggestible, & it’s also of no use.

92. What is the difference between Call to Action and Copy Action?

The changes made in Call to Action, will be reflected in the original action (from where the script is called).But where as in Copy Action, the changes made in the script, will not affect the original script (Action)

93. Discuss QTP Environment.

QuickTest Pro environment using the graphical interface and Active Screen technologies - A testing process for creating test scripts, relating manual test requirements to automated verification features - Data driving to use several sets of data using one test script.

94. Explain the concept of how QTP identifies object.

During recording QTP looks at the object and stores it as test object. For each test object QT learns a set of default properties called mandatory properties, and look at the rest of the objects to check whether this properties are enough to uniquely identify the object. During test run, QTP searches for the run time object that matches with the test object it learned while recording.

95. Differentiate the two Object Repository Types of QTP.

Per Action: For Each Action, one Object Repository is created.
Shared : One Object Repository is used by entire application

96. How to do the scripting. Are there any inbuilt functions in QTP?

Yes, there’s an in-built functionality called “Step Generator” in Insert->Step->Step Generator -F7, which will generate the scripts as u enter the appropriate steps.

97. How many types of Actions are there in QTP?

There are three kinds of actions:
Non-reusable action — an action that can be called only in the test with which it is stored, and can be called only once.
Reusable action — an action that can be called multiple times by the test with which it is stored (the local test) as well as by other tests.
External action — a reusable action stored with another test. External actions are read-only in the calling test, but you can choose to use a local, editable copy of the Data Table information for the external action.

98. I want to open a Notepad window without recording a test and I do not want to use SystemUtil.Run command as well how to do this?

You can still make the notepad open without using the record or System utility script, just by mentioning the path of the notepad “( i.e., where the notepad.exe is stored in the system) in the “Windows Applications Tab” of the “Record and Run Settings window

99. What are the Features & Benefits of Quick Test Pro(QTP)..?

* Key word driven testing
* Suitable for both client server and web based application
* VB script as the script language
* Better error handling mechanism
* Excellent data driven testing features

100. What’s Checkpoints for QTP?

A checkpoint verifies that expected information is displayed in your application while the test is running.

QuickTest Professional offers the following types of checkpoints:

Checkpoint Type	Description	Example of Use
Standard Checkpoint	Checks values of an object’s properties.	Check that a radio button is selected.
Image Checkpoint	Checks the property values of an image.	Check that the image source file is correct.
Table Checkpoint	Checks information in a table.	Check that the value in a table cell is correct.
Page Checkpoint	Checks the characteristics of a Web page.	Check how long a Web page takes to load or if a Web page contains broken links.
Text / Text Area Checkpoint	Checks that a text string is displayed in the appropriate place in a Web page or application window.	Check whether the expected text string is displayed in the expected location
Bitmap Checkpoint	Checks an area of a Web page or application after capturing it as a bitmap	Check that a Web page (or any portion of it) is displayed as expected.
Database Checkpoint	Checks the contents of databases accessed by an application or Web site	Check that the value in a database query is correct.
Accessibility Checkpoint	Identifies areas of a Web site to check for Section 508 compliancy.	Check if the images on a Web page include ALT properties, required by the W3C Web Content Accessibility Guidelines.
XML Checkpoint	Checks the data content of XML documents.	Note: XML file checkpoints are used to check a specified XML file; XML application checkpoints are used to check an XML document within a Web page.

FAQ - Automation - QTP ( 81 to 90 )

2008-03-20T15:57:00.002+05:30

81. Which environments are supported by Table Checkpoint?

Table Checkpoints are supported only ActiveX environment.

82. What’s the Text Checkpoint?

Text Checkpoint checks that a test string is displayed in the appropriate place in your application or on web page.

83. Which environments are supported by Test Checkpoint?

Text Checkpoints are supported by all add-in environments

84. What is the use of Text output value in QTP?

Output values enable to view the values that the application takes during run time. When parameterized, the values change for each iteration. Thus by creating output values, we can capture the values that the application takes for each run and output them to the data table.

85. Explain the concept of object repository and how QTP recognizes objects?

Object Repository: displays a tree of all objects in the current component or in the current action or entire test (depending on the object repository mode you selected).
We can view or modify the test object description of any test object in the repository or to add new objects to the repository.
Quicktest learns the default property values and determines in which test object class it fits. If it is not enough it adds assistive properties, one by one to the description until it has compiled the unique description. If no assistive properties are available, then it adds a special Ordinal identifier such as objects location on the page or in the source code.

86. What are the properties you would use for identifying a browser & page when using descriptive programming?

“name” would be another property apart from “title” that we can use.
OR
We can also use the property “micClass”.
Ex: Browser (”micClass:=browser”).page (”micClass:=page”)….

87. What are the different scripting languages you could use when working with QTP?

Visual Basic (VB), XML, JavaScript, Java, HTML

88. Explain the keyword createobject with an example.

Creates and returns a reference to an Automation object
syntax: CreateObject(servername.typename [, location])
Arguments
servername:Required. The name of the application providing the object.
typename : Required. The type or class of the object to create.
location : Optional. The name of the network server where the object is to be created.

89. Explain in brief about the QTP Automation Object Model.

90. How to handle dynamic objects in QTP?

QTP has a unique feature called Smart Object Identification/recognition. QTP generally identifies an object by matching its test object and run time object properties. QTP may fail to recognize the dynamic objects whose properties change during run time. Hence it has an option of enabling Smart Identification, wherein it can identify the objects even if their properties changes during run time.
Check this out-
If QuickTest is unable to find any object that matches the recorded object description, or if it finds more than one object that fits the description, then QuickTest ignores the recorded description, and uses the Smart Identification mechanism to try to identify the object.
While the Smart Identification mechanism is more complex, it is more flexible, and thus, if configured logically, a Smart Identification definition can probably help QuickTest identify an object, if it is present, even when the recorded description fails.
The Smart Identification mechanism uses two types of properties:
Base filter properties—The most fundamental properties of a particular test object class; those whose values cannot be changed without changing the essence of the original object. For example, if a Web link’s tag was changed from to any other value, you could no longer call it the same object. Optional filter properties—Other properties that can help identify objects of a particular class as they are unlikely to change on a regular basis, but which can be ignored if they are no longer applicable.

FAQ - Automation - QTP ( 71 to 80 )

2008-03-20T15:56:00.002+05:30

71. List all the run time errors in VB script.

A. VBScript run-time errors are errors that result when your VBScript script attempts to perform an action that the system cannot execute. VBScript run-time errors occur while your script is being executed; when variable expressions are being evaluated, and memory is being dynamic allocated.
Error Number Description
429 ActiveX component can't create object

507 An exception occurred

449 Argument not optional

17 Can't perform requested operation

430 Class doesn't support Automation

506 Class not defined

11 Division by zero

48 Error in loading DLL

5020 Expected ')' in regular expression

5019 Expected ']' in regular expression

432 File name or class name not found during Automation operation

92 For loop not initialized

5008 Illegal assignment

51 Internal error

505 Invalid or unqualified reference

481 Invalid picture

5 Invalid procedure call or argument

5021 Invalid range in character set

94 Invalid use of Null

448 Named argument not found

447 Object doesn't support current locale setting

445 Object doesn't support this action

438 Object doesn't support this property or method

451 Object not a collection

504 Object not safe for creating

503 Object not safe for initializing

502 Object not safe for scripting

424 Object required

91 Object variable not set

7 Out of Memory

28 Out of stack space

14 Out of string space

6 Overflow

35 Sub or function not defined

9 Subscript out of range

5017 Syntax error in regular expression

462 The remote server machine does not exist or is unavailable

10 This array is fixed or temporarily locked

13 Type mismatch

5018 Unexpected quantifier

500 Variable is undefined

458 Variable uses an Automation type not supported in VBScript

450 Wrong number of arguments or invalid property assignment

72. How many types of Parameters are available in QTP?

QTP provides three types of Parameter-

* Method Argument
* Data Driven
* Dynamic

73. What’s the QTP testing process?

QTP testing process consists of seven steps-

* Preparing to record
* Recording
* Enhancing your script
* Debugging
* Run
* Analyze
* Report Defects (more…)

74. What’s the Standard Checkpoint?

Standard Checkpoints checks the property value of an object in your application or web page.

75. Which environments are supported by Standard Checkpoint?

Standard Checkpoint is supported for all add-in environments.

76. What’s the Image Checkpoint?

Image Checkpoint checks the value of an image in your application or web page.

77. Which environments are supported by Image Checkpoint?

Image Checkpoint is supported only Web environment.

78. What’s the Bitmap Checkpoint?

Bitmap Checkpoint checks the bitmap images in your web page or application.

79. Which environments are supported by Bitmap Checkpoints?

Bitmap checkpoints are supported all add-in environment.

80. What are the Table Checkpoints?

Table Checkpoint checks the information with in a table.

FAQ - Automation - QTP ( 61 to 70 )

2008-03-20T15:55:00.007+05:30

61. What are Method Arguments?

A. Using Method arguments you parameterize method arguments in the Method Arguments dialog box. to open the Method Arguments dialog box, right-click a step containing a method in the test tree and choose Method Arguments. The Method Arguments dialog box opens and displays the method arguments in the step.

62. Well, I would like to run my test with different sets of data, How can I make it with the options available in QTP?

A. Listed are the different Data Table Iterations
Run one iteration only:
Runs the test only once, using only the first row in the global Data Table.

Run on all rows:
Runs the test with iterations using all rows in the global Data Table.
Run from row __ to row __ :
Runs the test with iterations using the values in the global Data Table for the specified row range.

63. What are different data tables available?

A. 1. Global Sheet
The Global sheet contains the data that replaces parameters in each iteration of the test.
2. Action Sheets
Each time you add a new action to the test, a new action sheet is added to the Data Table. Action sheets are automatically labeled with the exact name of the corresponding action. The data contained in an action sheet is relevant for the corresponding action only.

64. What is an Action?

A. An Quick test script contains different actions. An action contains the script i.e. A piece of business scenario like, login to application, logout etc.

Well again it depends on how you create your framework (If you would like to know more about frame work check out this link. Good one. http://www-128.ibm.com/developerworks/rational/library/591.html) for testing the applications.
I would suggest every action has a piece of business scenario which would help to re-use the script in a better way. Before deciding what are re-usable scripts. Firstly, identify all the common scenarios that occur in different business flows across different modules.
Then prepare the scripts and make generic. You can call all these functions by making this common function library available at Test options > Resources.

65. What is Copy of action?

A. Copy of Action:
When you insert a copy of an action into a test, the action is copied in its entirety, including checkpoints, parameterization, and the corresponding action tab in the Data Table. If the test you are copying into uses per-action repository mode, the copied action’s action object repository will also be copied along with the action.

66. What are re-usable actions?

A. Reusable Actions:
Determines whether the action is a reusable action. A reusable action can be called multiple times within a test and can be called from other tests. Non-reusable actions can be copied and inserted as independent actions, but cannot be inserted as calls to the original action.

67. What about Call of Action?

A. You can insert a call (link) to a reusable action that resides in your current test (local action), or in any other test (external action).

68. When to Insert transactions?

A. Inserting Transactions:

During the test run, the Start Transaction signals the beginning of the time measurement. You define the beginning of a transaction in the Start Transaction dialog box

The End Transaction signals the end of the time measurement

69. What are regular expressions?

A. Regular Expressions:

Regular expressions enable QuickTest to identify objects and text strings with varying values. You can use regular expressions when

* Defining the property values of an object

* Parameterizing a step

* Creating checkpoints with varying values

A regular expression is a string that specifies a complex search phrase. By using special
characters such as a period (.), asterisk (*), caret (^), and brackets ([ ]), you can define the
conditions of a search. When one of these special characters is preceded by a backslash (\), QuickTest searches for the literal character.

Here is an example:
The actual pattern for the regular expression search is set using the Pattern property of the RegExp object. The RegExp.Global property has no effect on the Test method.
The Test method returns True if a pattern match is found; False if no match is found.
The following code illustrates the use of the Test method.
Function RegExpTest (patrn, strng)
Dim regEx, retVal ' Create variable.
Set regEx = New RegExp ' Create regular expression.
regEx.Pattern = patrn ' Set pattern.
regEx.IgnoreCase = False ' Set case sensitivity.
retVal = regEx.Test(strng) ' Execute the search test.
If retVal Then
RegExpTest = 'One or more matches were found.'
Else
RegExpTest = 'No match was found.'
End If
End Function
MsgBox(RegExpTest('is.', 'IS1 is2 IS3 is4'))

70. Create a script to print the message

A.
Dim MyVar
MyVar = MsgBox ('Hello World!', 65, 'MsgBox Example')
' MyVar contains either 1 or 2, depending on which button is clicked.

FAQ - Automation - QTP ( 51 to 60 )

2008-03-20T15:54:00.004+05:30

51. What is Text or Text Area Checkpoint?

A. Text or Text Area Checkpoint Results
By adding text or text area checkpoints to your tests, you can check that a text string is displayed in the appropriate place in your application or on your Web page. When you run your test, Quick Test compares the expected results of the checkpoint to the actual results of the test run. If the results do not match, the checkpoint fails.

52. What is Bitmap Checkpoint?

A. Bitmap Checkpoints:
You can check an area of a Web page or application as a bitmap. While creating a test, you specify the area you want to check by selecting an object. You can check an entire object or any area within an object. Quick Test captures the specified object as a bitmap, and inserts a checkpoint in the test. You can also choose to save only the selected area of the object with your test in order to save disk space.

53. What is Table and Database Checkpoint?

A. Table and Database Checkpoints:
By adding table checkpoints to your tests, you can check that a specified value is displayed in a cell in a table on your Web page or in your application. By adding database checkpoints to your tests, you can check the contents of databases accessed by your Web page or application. The results displayed for table and database checkpoints are similar. When you run your test, Quick Test compares the expected results of the checkpoint to the actual results of the test run. If the results do not match, the checkpoint fails.

54. What is Accessibility Checkpoint?

A. Accessibility Checkpoints:
You can add accessibility checkpoints to help you quickly identify areas of your Web site that may not conform to the W3C (World Wide Web Consortium) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. You can add automatic accessibility checkpoints to each page in your test, or you can add individual accessibility checkpoints to individual pages or frames.

55. What is XML Checkpoint?

A. XML Checkpoint:
The XML Checkpoint Properties dialog box displays the element hierarchy and values (character data) of the selected XML file.

Select the element(s), attribute(s), and/or value(s) that you want to check. For each element you want to check, select the checks you want to perform. For each attribute or value you want to check, select the checks you want to perform, or the parameterization options you want to set.

56. What is Synchronization?

A. When you run tests, your application may not always respond with the same speed. For example, it might take a few seconds:
for a progress bar to reach 100%
for a status message to appear
for a button to become enabled
for a window or pop-up message to open
You can handle these anticipated timing problems by synchronizing your test to ensure that Quick Test waits until your application is ready before performing a certain step.

57. What are different functions available for Synchronization?

A. There are several options that you can use to synchronize your test:

You can insert a synchronization point, which instructs Quick Test to pause the test until an object property achieves the value you specify. When you insert a synchronization point into your test, Quick Test generates a WaitProperty statement in the Expert View.

58. What is the difference in Exists/wait statements?

A. Exist ()/ Wait()

You can insert Exist or Wait statements that instruct QuickTest to wait until an object exists or to wait a specified amount of time before continuing the test.

Eg. Browser('Yahoo”).Page('CheckMail”).Button(“CheckMail”).Exists(10)

QTP waits for 10 seconds till the button exists in the page. The script proceeds if the button even exits before 10 seconds unlike wait() statement – it waits for 10 seconds no matter the button exits before 10 seconds.

59. What is Default Time Out?

A. Default Time Out:
You can also increase the default timeout settings in the Test Settings and Options dialog boxes in order to instruct Quick Test to allow more time for certain events to occur

60. What is Parameterization (Data Table Wizard)?

A. You can supply the list of possible values for a parameter by creating a Data Table parameter. Data Table parameters enable you to create a data-driven test (or action) that runs several times using the data you supply. In each repetition, or iteration, Quick Test substitutes the constant value with a different value from the Data Table.

FAQ - Automation - QTP ( 41 to 50 )

2008-03-20T15:52:00.002+05:30

41. Explain all Object identification properties.

A. Mandatory and Assistive Properties:
During the test run, QuickTest looks for objects that match all properties in the test object description - it does not distinguish between properties that were learned as mandatory properties and those that were learned as assistive properties

Smart Identification: QuickTest uses a very similar process of elimination with its Smart Identification mechanism to identify an object, even when the recorded description is no longer accurate. Even if the values of your test object properties change, QuickTest’s TestGuard technology maintains your test’s reusability by identifying the object using Smart Identification.

42. What is Ordinal identifies. Explain in detail.

A. Ordinal Identifiers are
Index:
Indicates the order in which the object appears in the application code relative to other objects with an otherwise identical description.

Location:
Indicates the order in which the object appears within the parent window, frame, or dialog box relative to other objects with an otherwise identical description. Values are assigned from top to bottom, and then left to right.

The Web Browser object has a third ordinal identifier type:

Creation Time:
Indicates the order in which the browser was opened relative to other open browsers with an otherwise identical description.

43. What is Smart Identification?

A. Smart Identification:
If QuickTest is unable to find any object that matches the recorded object description, or if it finds more than one object that fits the description, then QuickTest ignores the recorded description, and uses the Smart Identification mechanism to try to identify the object.

While the Smart Identification mechanism is more complex, it is more flexible, and thus, if configured logically, a Smart Identification definition can probably help QuickTest identify an object, if it is present, even when the recorded description fails.

44. What are the properties available in Smart identification?

A. Base filter properties:
The most fundamental properties of a particular test object class; those whose values cannot be changed without changing the essence of the original object. For example, if a Web link’s tag was changed from Optional filter properties:
Other properties that can help identify objects of a particular class as they are unlikely to change on a regular basis, but which can be ignored if they are no longer applicable.

45. What is Object Spy? How is it used in QTP?

A. Using the Object Spy, you can view the run-time or test object properties and methods of any object in an open application. You use the Object Spy pointer to point to an object. The Object Spy displays the selected object’s hierarchy tree. It displays the run-time or test object properties and values of the selected object in the Properties tab. It displays the run-time or test object methods associated with the selected object in the Methods tab

46. What are Run-Time Object Properties / Run-Time Object Methods?

A. Run-Time Object Properties / Run-Time Object Methods:
You can use the Object property to access the native properties of any run-time object. For example, you can retrieve the current value of the ActiveX calendar’s internal Day property as follows:

Eg. Sample code
Dim MyDay
Set MyDay = Browser('index').Page('Untitled').ActiveX('MSCAL.Calendar.7').Object.Day

47. What are Test Object Properties / Test Object Methods?

A. Test Object Properties / Test Object Methods:
You can use the GetTOProperty and SetTOProperty methods to retrieve and set the value of test object properties for test objects in your test.

You can use the GetROProperty to retrieve the current property value of objects in your application during the test run.

48. What are User-Defined Test Object Classes? How are they mapped?

A User-Defined Test Object Classes:
The Object Mapping dialog box enables you to map an object of an unidentified or custom class to a Standard Windows class. For example, if your application has a button that cannot be identified, this button is recorded as a generic WinObject. You can teach QuickTest to identify your object as if it belonged to a standard Windows button class. Then, when you click the button while recording a test, QuickTest records the operation in the same way as a click on a standard Windows button. When you map an unidentified or custom object to a standard object, your object is added to the list of Standard Windows test object classes as a user-defined test object. You can configure the object identification settings for a user defined object class just as you would any other object class

49. What are checkpoints?

A. A checkpoint is a verification point that compares a current value for a specified property with the expected value for that property. This enables you to identify whether your Web site or application is functioning correctly.

When you add a checkpoint, Quick Test adds a checkpoint with an icon in the test tree and adds a Check Point statement in the Expert View. When you run the test, Quick Test compares the expected results of the checkpoint to the current results. If the results do not match, the checkpoint fails. You can view the results of the checkpoint in the Test Results window.

50. What is a standard checkpoint?

A. You can check that a specified object in your application or on your Web page has the property values you expect, by adding a standard checkpoint to your test. To set the options for a standard checkpoint, you use the Checkpoint Properties dialog box.

FAQ - Automation - QTP ( 31 to 40 )

2008-03-20T15:51:00.003+05:30

31. How QTP scripts are advantageous when need to re-work the same business scenarios?

A. To record the Quick Test Professional Script on one instance and be able to execute it on any other instance. The assumption is there are no major GUI changes between the recorded and the execution instances.

32. How can you make the scripts generic and what architecture needs to be followed?

A. In order to achieve the above objective, we need to plan the Quick Test Professional script. It should have two parts:
1. Script – that is generic Quick test script.
2. Data – from the parameter file that is customer instance specific.

Eg. Imagine a business flow has a scenario

- Login to the web page
- Check mail
- Logout
1. Create data/parameter file (can be flat file [.txt] or an excel file) is instance specific.
2. Create (record/program) the QTP initialization
3. The initialization script which calls the Object repository, common function library and all QTP actions/scripts

33. How to create an individual script?

A. Record the Quick Test Professional script and modify it to make it a generic script using the following steps:

a. Set the testing options in the Test Settings Dialog box.
b. Record the script
c. Modify the script to make it generic:

i. Parameterize the hard coded values.
ii. Modify the Object Repository file with regular expressions.
iii. Add unique properties to items in the Object Repository to make recognition simpler.
iv. Insert synchronization points as required.
v. Insert checkpoints for pass/fail validation.
vi. Insert additional programming logic.
vii. Use the Common Functions.

34. What is the testing process in QTP?

A. The testing process consists of 3 main phases:

1. Gather relevant test information – Input data should be gathered.

2. Create the basic test – Record/Program the scripts in actions

3. Enhance the basic test
Use Data Driven scripts to use the script to test with different sets of data
Reusable Actions- Identify the common scenarios and make the scripts generic and reuse the scripts across different business scenarios.

35. What are different types of recording modes in QTP?

A. There are two recording modes
1. Low-level
2. Analog

Low – Level Recording:

Use Low-Level Recording when you need to record the exact location of the object on your application screen.
To record in Low-Level Recording, select “Low-Level Recording” from the “Test” menu while recording

Analog:

Use Analog Recording for applications in which the actual movement of the mouse is what you want to record.
To record in Analog mode, select “Analog Recording” from the “Test” menu while recording.

36. What is Object repository?

A. The Object Repository dialog box displays a test tree of all objects in the current action or the entire test (depending on the object repository mode you choose when you create your test). You can use the Object Repository dialog box to view or modify the properties of any test object in the repository or to add new objects to your repository.

Object Repository Modes

Per – Action Object Repository:
This is the default setting, and all tests created in QuickTest 5.6 or earlier use this mode. In this mode, QuickTest automatically creates an object repository file for each action in your test so that you can record and run tests without creating, choosing, or modifying object repository files.
Shared Object Repository:
In this mode, you can use one object repository file for multiple tests if the tests include the same objects. Object information that applies to many tests is kept in one central location. When the objects in your application change, you can update them in one location for multiple tests

37. How to select the Object repository mode?

A. To select the object repository mode
Goto Test Settings > Resource Tab to change the Object Repository Mode

The default object repository file name is default.tsr
You can change object repository mode when the Test contain no actions.

38. What is Active screen? What are the advantages of Active screen?

A. Active screen captures all the properties of the application and makes available even when offline/ when you are not connected to the application.
The main advantage is checkpoints can be added without connecting to the application

39. What are different Screen capture options available for Active screen?

A. Complete—Captures all properties of all objects in the application’s active window/dialog box/Web page in the Active Screen of each step. This level saves Web pages after any dynamic changes and saves Active Screen files in a compressed format.

Partial—(Default). Captures all properties of all objects in the application’s active window/dialog box/Web page in the Active Screen of the first step performed in an application’s window, plus all properties of the recorded object in subsequent steps in the same window. This level saves Web pages after any dynamic changes and saves Active Screen files in a compressed format.

Minimum—Captures properties only for the recorded object and its parent in the Active Screen of each step. This level saves the original source HTML of all Web pages (prior to dynamic changes) and saves Active Screen files in a compressed format.

None—Disables capturing of Active Screen files for all applications and Web pages.

40. How QTP identifies the objects in the application during runtime?

A. QTP uses different properties to identify the objects in the applications. They are:
a. Mandatory Properties
b. Assistive Properties
c. Object Identifies
d. Smart Identification

FAQ - Automation - QTP ( 21 to 30 )

2008-03-20T15:50:00.003+05:30

21. How many ways we can parameterize data in QTP?

There are four types of parameters: Test, action or component parameters enable you to use values passed from your test or component, or values from other actions in your test. Data Table parameters enable you to create a data-driven test (or action) that runs several times using the data you supply. In each repetition, or iteration, Quick Test uses a different value from the Data Table. Environment variable parameters enable you to use variable values from other sources during the run session. These may be values you supply, or values that Quick Test generates for you based on conditions and options you choose. Random number parameters enable you to insert random numbers as values in your test or component. For example, to check how your application handles small and large ticket orders, you can have Quick Test generate a random number and insert it in a number of tickets edit field.

22. How do u do batch testing in WR & is it possible to do in QTP, if so explain?

Batch Testing in WR is nothing but running the whole test set by selecting Run Test set from the Execution Grid. The same is possible with QTP also. If our test cases are automated then by selecting Run Test set all the test scripts can be executed. In this process the Scripts get executed one by one by keeping all the remaining scripts in Waiting mode.

23. If I give some thousand tests to execute in 2 days what do u do?

Adhoc testing is done. It covers the least basic functionalities to verify that the system is working fine.

24. What does it mean when a check point is in red color? What do u do?

A red color indicates failure. Here we analyze the cause for failure whether it is a Script Issue or Environment Issue or a Application issue.

25. What is Object Spy in QTP?

26. What is the file extension of the code file & object repository file in QTP?

Code files extension is.vbs and object repository is.tsr

27. Explain the concept of object repository & how QTP recognizes objects?

Object Repository: displays a tree of all objects in the current component or in the current action or entire test (depending on the object repository mode you selected). We can view or modify the test object description of any test object in the repository or to add new objects to the repository. QuickTest learns the default property values and determines in which test object class it fits. If it is not enough it adds assistive properties, one by one to the description until it has compiled the unique description. If no assistive properties are available, then it adds a special Ordinal identifier such as objects location on the page or in the source code.

28. What are the properties you would use for identifying a browser & page when using descriptive programming?

Name would be another property apart from title that we can use.

29. Give me an example where you have used a COM interface in your QTP project?

COM interface appears in the scenario of front end and back end. for eg:if you r using oracle as back end and front end as VB or any language then for better compatibility we will go for an interface of which COM will be one among those interfaces. Create object creates handle to the instance of the specified object so that we program can use the methods on the specified object. It is used for implementing Automation (as defined by Microsoft).

30. Explain in brief about the QTP Automation Object Model?

Essentially all configuration and run functionality provided via the Quick Test interface is in some way represented in the Quick Test automation object model via objects, methods, and properties. Although a one-on-one comparison cannot always be made, most dialog boxes in Quick Test have a corresponding automation object, most options in dialog boxes can be set and/or retrieved using the corresponding object property, and most menu commands and other operations have corresponding automation methods. You can use the objects, methods, and properties exposed by the Quick Test automation object model, along with standard programming elements such as loops and conditional statements to design your program.

FAQ - Automation - QTP ( 11 to 20 )

2008-03-20T15:42:00.004+05:30

11. Explain the QTP Tool interface.

It contains the following key elements: Title bar, displaying the name of the currently open test, Menu bar, displaying menus of Quick Test commands, File toolbar, containing buttons to assist you in managing tests, Test toolbar, containing buttons used while creating and maintaining tests, Debug toolbar, containing buttons used while debugging tests. Note: The Debug toolbar is not displayed when you open Quick Test for the first time. You can display the Debug toolbar by choosing View — Toolbars — Debug. Action toolbar, containing buttons and a list of actions, enabling you to view the details of an individual action or the entire test flow. Note: The Action toolbar is not displayed when you open Quick Test for the first time. You can display the Action toolbar by choosing View — Toolbars — Action. If you insert a reusable or external action in a test, the Action toolbar is displayed automatically. Test pane, containing two tabs to view your test-the Tree View and the Expert View, Test Details pane, containing the Active Screen. Data Table, containing two tabs, Global and Action, to assist you in parameterizing your test. Debug Viewer pane, containing three tabs to assist you in debugging your test-Watch Expressions, Variables, and Command. (The Debug Viewer pane can be opened only when a test run pauses at a breakpoint.) Status bar, displaying the status of the test

12. How does QTP recognize Objects in AUT?

Quick Test stores the definitions for application objects in a file called the Object Repository. As you record your test, Quick Test will add an entry for each item you interact with. Each Object Repository entry will be identified by a logical name (determined automatically by Quick Test), and will contain a set of properties (type, name, etc) that uniquely identify each object. Each line in the Quick Test script will contain a reference to the object that you interacted with, a call to the appropriate method (set, click, check) and any parameters for that method (such as the value for a call to the set method). The references to objects in the script will all be identified by the logical name, rather than any physical, descriptive properties.

13. What are the types of Object Repositories in QTP?

Quick Test has two types of object repositories for storing object information: shared object repositories and action object repositories. You can choose which type of object repository you want to use as the default type for new tests, and you can change the default as necessary for each new test. The object repository per-action mode is the default setting. In this mode, Quick Test automatically creates an object repository file for each action in your test so that you can create and run tests without creating, choosing, or modifying object repository files. However, if you do modify values in an action object repository, your changes do not have any effect on other actions. Therefore, if the same test object exists in more than one action and you modify an object’s property values in one action, you may need to make the same change in every action (and any test) containing the object.

14. Explain the check points in QTP?

A checkpoint verifies that expected information is displayed in an Application while the test is running. You can add eight types of checkpoints to your test for standard web objects using QTP. A page checkpoint checks the characteristics of an Application. A text checkpoint checks that a text string is displayed in the appropriate place on an Application. An object checkpoint (Standard) checks the values of an object on an Application. An image checkpoint checks the values of an image on an Application. A table checkpoint checks information within a table on an Application. An Accessibility checkpoint checks the web page for Section 508 compliance. An XML checkpoint checks the contents of individual XML data files or XML documents that are part of your Web application. A database checkpoint checks the contents of databases accessed by your web site

15. In how many ways we can add check points to an application using QTP?

We can add checkpoints while recording the application or we can add after recording is completed using Active screen (Note: To perform the second one The Active screen must be enabled while recording).

16. How does QTP identify objects in the application?

QTP identifies the object in the application by Logical Name and Class.

17. What is Parameterizing Tests?

When you test your application, you may want to check how it performs the same operations with multiple sets of data. For example, suppose you want to check how your application responds to ten separate sets of data. You could record ten separate tests, each with its own set of data. Alternatively, you can create a parameterized test that runs ten times: each time the test runs, it uses a different set of data.

18. What is test object model in QTP?

The test object model is a large set of object types or classes that Quick Test uses to represent the objects in your application. Each test object class has a list of properties that can uniquely identify objects of that class and a set of relevant methods that Quick Test can record for it. A test object is an object that Quick Test creates in the test or component to represent the actual object in your application. Quick Test stores information about the object that will help it identify and checks the object during the run session.

19. What is Object Spy in QTP?

20. What is the Diff between Image check-point and Bit map Check point?

Image checkpoints enable you to check the properties of a Web image. You can check an area of a Web page or application as a bitmap. While creating a test or component, you specify the area you want to check by selecting an object. You can check an entire object or any area within an object. Quick Test captures the specified object as a bitmap, and inserts a checkpoint in the test or component. You can also choose to save only the selected area of the object with your test or component in order to save disk Space. For example, suppose you have a Web site that can display a map of a city the user specifies. The map has control keys for zooming. You can record the new map that is displayed after one click on the control key that zooms in the map. Using the bitmap checkpoint, you can check that the map zooms in correctly. You can create bitmap checkpoints for all supported testing environments (as long as the appropriate add-ins are loaded). Note: The results of bitmap checkpoints may be affected by factors such as operating system, screen resolution, and color settings.

FAQ - Automation - QTP ( 01 to 10 )

2008-03-20T15:37:00.003+05:30

What is QTP?

Quick Test is a graphical interface record-playback automation tool. It is able to work with any web, java or windows client application. Quick Test enables you to test standard web objects and ActiveX controls. In addition to these environments, Quick Test Professional also enables you to test Java applets and applications and multimedia objects on Applications as well as standard Windows applications, Visual Basic 6 applications and.NET framework applications

What are the Features & Benefits of Quick Test Pro (QTP 8.0)?

Operates stand-alone, or integrated into Mercury Business Process Testing and Mercury Quality Center. Introduces next-generation zero-configuration Keyword Driven testing technology in Quick Test Professional 8.0 allowing for fast test creation, easier maintenance, and more powerful data-driving capability. Identifies objects with Unique Smart Object Recognition, even if they change from build to build, enabling reliable unattended script execution. Collapses test documentation and test creation to a single step with Auto-documentation technology. Enables thorough validation of applications through a full complement of checkpoints.

How to handle the exceptions using recovery scenario manager in QTP?

There are 4 trigger events during which a recovery scenario should be activated. A pop up window appears in an opened application during the test run: A property of an object changes its state or value, A step in the test does not run successfully, An open application fails during the test run, These triggers are considered as exceptions.You can instruct QTP to recover unexpected events or errors that occurred in your testing environment during test run. Recovery scenario manager provides a wizard that guides you through the defining recovery scenario. Recovery scenario has three steps: 1. Triggered Events 2. Recovery steps 3. Post Recovery Test-Run

What is the use of Text output value in QTP?

Output values enable to view the values that the application talks during run time. When parameterized, the values change for each iteration. Thus by creating output values, we can capture the values that the application takes for each run and output them to the data table.

How to use the Object spy in QTP 8.0 version?

There are two ways to Spy the objects in QTP: 1) Thru file toolbar, In the File Toolbar click on the last toolbar button (an icon showing a person with hat). 2) True Object repository Dialog, In Object repository dialog click on the button object spy. In the Object spy Dialog click on the button showing hand symbol. The pointer now changes in to a hand symbol and we have to point out the object to spy the state of the object if at all the object is not visible or window is minimized then, hold the Ctrl button and activate the required window to and release the Ctrl button.

How Does Run time data (Parameterization) is handled in QTP?

What is keyword view and Expert view in QTP?

Quick Test’s Keyword Driven approach, test automation experts have full access to the underlying test and object properties, via an integrated scripting and debugging environment that is round-trip synchronized with the Keyword View. Advanced testers can view and edit their tests in the Expert View, which reveals the underlying industry-standard VBScript that Quick Test Professional automatically generates. Any changes made in the Expert View are automatically synchronized with the Keyword View.

Explain about the Test Fusion Report of QTP?

Once a tester has run a test, a Test Fusion report displays all aspects of the test run: a high-level results overview, an expandable Tree View of the test specifying exactly where application failures occurred, the test data used, application screen shots for every step that highlight any discrepancies, and detailed explanations of each checkpoint pass and failure. By combining Test Fusion reports with Quick Test Professional, you can share reports across an entire QA and development team.

Which environments does QTP support?

Quick Test Professional supports functional testing of all enterprise environments, including Windows, Web,..NET, Java/J2EE, SAP, Siebel, Oracle, PeopleSoft, Visual Basic, ActiveX, mainframe terminal emulators, and Web services.

Explain QTP Testing process? –

Quick Test testing process consists of 6 main phases:

Create your test plan - Prior to automating there should be a detailed description of the test including the exact steps to follow, data to be input, and all items to be verified by the test. The verification information should include both data validations and existence or state verifications of objects in the application.

Recording a session on your application - As you navigate through your application, Quick Test graphically displays each step you perform in the form of a collapsible icon-based test tree. A step is any user action that causes or makes a change in your site, such as clicking a link or image, or entering data in a form.

Enhancing your test - Inserting checkpoints into your test lets you search for a specific value of a page, object or text string, which helps you identify whether or not your application is functioning correctly. NOTE: Checkpoints can be added to a test as you record it or after the fact via the Active Screen. It is much easier and faster to add the checkpoints during the recording process. Broadening the scope of your test by replacing fixed values with parameters lets you check how your application performs the same operations with multiple sets of data. Adding logic and conditional statements to your test enables you to add sophisticated checks to your test.

Debugging your test - If changes were made to the script, you need to debug it to check that it operates smoothly and without interruption.

Running your test on a new version of your application - You run a test to check the behavior of your application. While running, Quick Test connects to your application and performs each step in your test.

Analyzing the test results - You examine the test results to pinpoint defects in your application.

Reporting defects - As you encounter failures in the application when analyzing test results, you will create defect reports in Defect Reporting Tool.

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2008-03-18T12:48:00.005+05:30

HI,

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