SSIS-950: An Overview of SQL Server Integration Services Error Code

Introduction

SSIS, or SQL Server Integration Services, is a powerful tool for data integration and workflow applications, particularly within Microsoft’s SQL Server suite. It allows organizations to build complex data transformations and workflows, enabling seamless integration of various data sources. However, like any robust software tool, SSIS can occasionally encounter errors during the execution of packages. One such error is SSIS-950, a specific issue encountered during SSIS package execution.

This article explores the SSIS-950 error, including its common causes, how to diagnose it, and the best practices for troubleshooting and resolving the issue.

What is SSIS-950?

An error code typically appears when an issue arises when loading or processing data in an SSIS package. While SSIS errors usually contain a descriptive message that helps narrow the problem, they are often associated with data type or transformation issues.

The message might read something like: “SSIS-950: Failed to retrieve or load data”, indicating a failure at some point between the data extraction (ETL process) and the data loading phase. The exact context of the error can vary depending on the SSIS components used, the data sources, and the package configurations.

Common Causes of SSIS-950 Error

These errors can arise from several scenarios, often related to misconfigurations, connectivity issues, or resource constraints. Below are the most common causes:

1. Data Type Mismatch: SSIS is sensitive to data types, and a mismatch between source and destination data types can trigger an SSIS-950 error. For example, loading a VARCHAR value into an INT column can cause this problem.
2. Resource Limitations: This error can be linked to insufficient system resources like CPU, memory, or disk space. Resource exhaustion can lead to failure when SSIS is processing large datasets or handling complex transformations.
3. Corrupt or Inaccessible Data: If the processed data is corrupted or inaccessible due to permission or connectivity issues, the SSIS package may fail and produce this error. For example, if the source file is missing or locked by another process, SSIS cannot retrieve it.
4. Connection Failures: SSIS relies on defined connections to various data sources (databases, files, etc.). If there is a network failure, incorrect connection string, or authentication problem, SSIS might fail to access the data and return an SSIS-950 error.
5. Incorrect Package Configuration: Misconfigured packages, such as incorrect file paths, insufficient privileges, or wrong credentials, can cause SSIS to fail during execution. If the package cannot find the source or destination, it will throw an error.

Diagnosing SSIS-950 Errors

To resolve these errors, a structured diagnostic approach can help identify the root cause. Below are some steps to follow when diagnosing this error:

1. Check the Error Message: SSIS errors usually come with detailed descriptions. Review the error message to identify the exact issue. It may include information such as the task or transformation where the error occurred, the failed component, or the data that caused the issue.
2. Examine Data Types: If the error is related to a data type mismatch, review the data flow to ensure that data types between the source and destination are compatible. SSIS includes data conversion transformations that can help resolve type mismatches.
3. Check System Resources: Monitor the system resources (CPU, memory, and disk usage) to ensure SSIS has enough resources to complete its operations. Resource constraints can often lead to execution failures.
4. Review Connection Managers: Ensure that the connection managers in the SSIS package are configured correctly and have the right connection strings, credentials, and network settings. Test connections to ensure they are working correctly.
5. Examine Package Configuration: Check if the package is using the correct file paths, variables, and package-level configurations. Misconfigurations can often lead to file not found errors or incorrect references, causing this error.

Best Practices for Resolving SSIS-950 Errors

Once the root cause of this error has been identified, the following steps can help to resolve and prevent the issue:

1. Use Data Conversion Transformations: To resolve data type mismatch issues, SSIS provides a Data Conversion component that allows you to convert data types explicitly. This ensures compatibility between source and destination columns.
2. Optimize System Resources: If resource constraints are causing SSIS failures, consider optimizing the package by breaking down large data sets into smaller batches or using performance-enhancing features like data flow partitioning. Increasing hardware resources like RAM or CPU may also help.
3. Improve Error Handling: Implement robust error-handling strategies using event handlers, logging, and checkpoints in your SSIS package. This will allow you to track errors more effectively and recover from failures without re-executing the entire package.
4. Validate Connections: Regularly test and validate connections to databases, files, and other resources to ensure they are correctly configured and accessible. You can also use package configurations or SSIS parameters to change connection strings dynamically at runtime.
5. Review Package Configuration: Always ensure your package configurations are accurate and up-to-date. This includes verifying paths, parameters, and package-level variables that control execution behavior.
6. Monitor and Log Execution: Utilize SSIS logging features to monitor the execution of the package. Logging at various levels (such as task and component levels) can capture details on the execution process and pinpoint the cause of this error.

Conclusion

This standard error code in SQL Server Integration Services can arise due to data type mismatches, resource constraints, connection issues, or misconfigurations. Diagnosing the exact cause involves reviewing the error message, checking data flows, validating connections, and optimizing system resources.

By following best practices, such as implementing data type conversions, ensuring proper resource allocation, and improving package configurations, developers can effectively prevent and resolve SSIS-950 errors, ensuring smooth and efficient execution of their SSIS packages.

Through careful planning, robust error handling, and regular monitoring, organizations can harness the full potential of SSIS while avoiding common pitfalls like this error.