Performing bulk export using Invoke-Sqlcmd

This recipe demonstrates how to export contents of a table to a CSV file using PowerShell and the Invoke-Sqlcmd cmdlet.

Getting ready

Make sure you have access to the AdventureWorks2008R2 database. We will use the Person.Person table.

Create a C:\Temp folder, if you don't already have one on your system.

How to do it...

1. Open the PowerShell console by going to Start | Accessories | Windows PowerShell | Windows PowerShell ISE.

2. Import the SQLPS module, and create a new SMO Server object:

   #import SQL Server module
   Import-Module SQLPS -DisableNameChecking
   
   #replace this with your instance name
   $instanceName = "KERRIGAN"
   $server = New-Object -TypeName Microsoft.SqlServer.Management.Smo.Server -ArgumentList $instanceName

3. Add the following script and run it:

   #database handle
   $dbName = "AdventureWorks2008R2"
   $db = $server.Databases[$dbName]
   
   #export file name
   $exportfile = "C:\Temp\Person_Person.csv"
   
   $query = @"
   SELECT 
      * 
   FROM 
      Person.Person
   "@
   Invoke...