Introduction to SQL in KDB-X

This page introduces SQL support in KDB-X, outlining how the interface translates SQL statements into q expressions at runtime.

SQL provides a familiar relational interface for querying and managing data in KDB-X, allowing users to leverage standard SQL syntax within the q environment.

Concepts

SQL in KDB-X combines ANSI SQL familiarity with the power of the q interface.

• Translation layer: The interface translates SQL statements into q expressions at runtime.
• ANSI SQL alignment: SQL in KDB-X implements a subset of ANSI SQL features
• Data integration: You can run SQL and q queries on the same data in the same session.

Use cases

SQL in KDB-X helps different users work with data efficiently.

• Query relational-style data in KDB-X with SQL.
• Onboard SQL developers quickly without requiring q knowledge.
• Prototype queries in SQL before rewriting or optimizing them in q.

Architecture

The SQL interface in KDB-X parses, translates, and executes SQL statements against q data.

• The SQL parser reads and interprets SQL commands.
• The interface converts SQL into q at runtime.
• The system raises errors when you use unsupported syntax.

SQL language support

SQL in KDB-X supports a wide range of common SQL features:

• Operators
• Functions
• Data and literals
• Select statements
• Table creation, modification, and deletion

Next steps

• Follow the Quickstart to create and query tables.
• Explore the Reference page for full operator and function details.
• Refer to examples for practical queries and workflows.