I am having a problem trying to attach a database, I am getting the error below when trying to attach the mdf and ldf through EM.

** Error 5172: The header for the file <File Location ... TextFiles_Log.LDF> is not a valid database file header. The FILE SIZE property is incorrect **

Is there a work around this problem, as I have to attach this dB.

Hi

When you create the database on the server you want to restore to you have the choice of where the location of the mdf and ldf files are to be created e.g. C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL\Data.....

When you try to restore to this database from your backup file, the database you are restoring from has these files (mdf and ldf) in a different location. You need to point to the mdf and ldf of the database you are restoring to.

To do this go to the Options tab in 'Restore Database' and make sure the path in 'Restore database file as:' points to the correct location.

Regards

Nickie

Hi

Ignore my last post as its not the fix for the problem you have.

Sorry

Nickie

Basically I detached the dB, deleted the ldf file (because it was 1GB) and when I tried to reattach the dB may problems began.

I have therefore got a BU from a few days ago of the mdf/ldf files and for some reason I cannot reattach them.

Ian

Hi

Try creating a new database and see if you can restore it to that. You said you deleted the ldf file and it is probable that by restoring the database it is looking for an existing ldf.

Nickie

Strange, just tried to attached a MDF file only and it has worked. Lesson learnt here about making sure BU are available!!!

Thanks for the emails Nickie

Regards
Ian