Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2008.

Multiple AOS in a Multi CPU Machine :)

You are all aware that presently AX AOS does not support more that 2 processors. Now say you have a multi processor Box where you want to install multiple AOS and make sure that each AOS Service points to a specific processor. Follow the steps:
1.Open Task Manager
2.Right Click on AX32Serv.exe
3.Click "Set Affinity"
4.A window opens up which shows all the CPU's your Box has
5.You can now , for each AOS Service point/ check the CPU's you want to run on :)



But the limitation is that when you restart the service/ Box , you must do this again. Also if the AOS Service runs under local/system/network Account, you cannot do this. Only available for AD accounts.

This is NOT recommended in a live environment.

Happy DAX-ing

How to Improve Stability of the AOS for Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0

There is white paper in Partnersource/Customersource will discuss tips for Administrators to improve stability of the Application Object Server for Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0. Its a nice read for AX Administrators.

Click here to download [Requires authentication]

Nice Sharepoint 2007 Training for EP Developers

Hi.. I came across a nice free training / overview of MOSS / Sharepoint 2007 referred by a fellow MVP. Its a really nice training for EP developers who are new to MOSS and want to get a good overview of MOSS/ WSS before taking a deep dive into EP Deployment & Development.

There are two training editions available. Click to download whatever is applicable:

Standalone Edition : If you do not want to install MOSS on your PC

Portal Edition: If you want to deploy on your MOSS Portal

The first time I tried to install EP on MOSS, I had a tough time installing MOSS in the first place. I came across a very nice resource on how to install MOSS.

Click here for the link.

Happy DAX-ing on the EP :)

Successfully Implementing Microsoft Dynamics: By Using the Regatta® Approach for Microsoft Dynamics

Hii !!! I came across a book on Implementing Microsoft Dynamics using Regatta Approach. I am awaiting my copy :)and looking forward to read it. Since there is actually a shortage of Books on MS Dynamics, any book is a welcome. In case anyone is interested, click on the image below to order it from Amazon.

Happy reading :)

Microsoft Dynamics Customer Evidence Gadget for Vista

There is a release of the Microsoft Dynamics Customer Evidence Gadget. You can now view customer evidence on your desktop using Windows Vista Gadgets. Slice and dice the information you need to find by filtering for newly published case studies, case studies by industry, country and much more. Real cool :)

Click here to download {Requires Partnersource Login}

Microsoft Dynamics Client for Microsoft Office and SharePoint Server

Microsoft Dynamics Client for Microsoft Office and SharePoint Server package will help customers extend the power, insights and process control of their Microsoft Dynamics ERP application to all employees via familiar Microsoft Office business productivity tools. The package contains a collection of up to 12 self-service applications that are built in Microsoft Office and SharePoint, as well as a license for Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007.

Additional resources are available at Partnersource.

Click here to download { Requires Partnersource Access}

"Everyone Gets It" Campaign for Microsoft Dynamics

The “Everyone Gets It” digital marketing campaign is the first campaign of its kind for the Microsoft Dynamics business, providing a unique, role based online experience for the five key business roles relevant to Microsoft Dynamics – Marketing, Sales, Finance, Operations and IT.
Click the link/ Pix below:




Everyone Gets It (Link)

AX 4 AOS Basics: [Level 100]

You are well aware that AX 4.0 has gone some serious Architectural change . If we consider the "Chart Of Accounts" as the functional heart of an ERP system, then the AOS is the technical heart of AX :). Its a very important pece in AX and it has undergone significant changes in 4.0. I'll point some major ones for techie folks who are new to AX.

AOS changed to Windows service
The Dynamics AOS is now a True windows service and can be viewed in Services.msc window. It also means that AOS Exceptions is available in the Windows event viewer. In case of any issues regarding AOS errors, the same can be viewed in the Windows Event Viewer.Also the 2-Tier configuration has been removed. All connections via 3 Tier AOS Authorized only :)

Dynamics Server$instance-numberAOS-instance-name.
AOS Service:


AOS Logs in the Windows Event viewer:




Session management
Session info moved to database - No more .udb file in the application file folder which means no more writing the user sessions in the .udb file. The user session management has been migrated to the database making it possible to manage all user and business connector sessions from one console. It also makes it possible to view all AOS sessions from 1 console which was not available in AX v 3.x.User specific information is now stored in the database.


Active directory integration
All users must use AD Authentication to access the AOS. Also no more ‘sa’ / ‘bmssa’ authentication. Normally when we install the AOS, the default User is NT AUTHORITY\NETWORK SERVICEThis is not recommended in a production environment and the AOS must have separate Domain accounts with adequate rights and privileges.
The AOS account must be a user in the database and be assigned to the following database roles
• db_ddladmin,
• db_datareader, and
• db_datawriter
Also the AOS user must have execute rights to the following stored procedures in the AX Database
• createserversessions
• createusersessions



Normally when we install AOS, we select NT AUTHORITY\NETWORK SERVICE as the AOS Startup account. Later when we go to services and want to change the startup Account, the changes must also be made in the database for the new AOS User account.

Other Improvements

• You can easily restrict number of sessions for an AOS. You can now restrict the nos. of connections an AOS can accept from the AOS Server Manager utility in the main page.




• Load Balancing - You can now dedicate an AOS instance as a “load balancer”. For this you do not need a high end server. This piece will access all incoming requests and distribute to the available AOS Servers. Kind of useful in TS scenario. Also now we have NLB clustering features available.



• You can easily drain stop an AOS before removing from a cluster. It is useful for maintenance mode and during upgrades. This reduces downtime of the application.


• The proprietary AOCP (AX v 3.x) has been replaced by RPC. Improved Client Server calls.


• Enhanced server API securityLot of work has been done regarding security API & CAS.
Lot of new security API’s are available. (For reference see the whitepaper by MFP – “Writing secure code in Microsoft Dynamics AX

• Secured write access to the AOT & table permissions framework AOS
Table permissions framework helps avoid unauthorized access to AX system tables. Normally when we use the .NET BC / COM connector by validating against a AD User, the AD user Security (Set in AX) is bypassed :(.
This is security vulnerability. In AX 4.x, the table permission framework has been introduced to counteract this issue. It also means that now we can secure access to the AOT Tables. In the Table property sheet, we have a new property called AOS Authorization with the following values as shown. By default its set to ‘None’ for all tables except the System Tables (See table SysUserInfo where this property has been set to “CreateDelete”).




The AOS Authorization property helps us to enable security @ the server tier. In simple words, it tells to validate User Permissions for any CRUD operations on that table. The options for this property are shown above. If we select “Create Delete” then it will enforce User Permissions for Create & Delete operations on that table. If we select “CreateReadUpdateDelete” then it will enforce User Permissions for all operations on that table. That’s smart :).You also have this at the table level for specific user levels. There are 4 new methods in a Table.





• AOS authorization – All authentications via Active Directory.

• 64 Bit Table Level RecId – Now no more worrying about running out of RecId’s :)

HAPPY DAX - ing :)

Copenhagen Convergence Review | Episode II

Well Copenhagen Convergence was a nice event for me as I came across the AX Product team, saw AX 5.0 in action and learnt about the related technologies and ISV solutions for Dynamics AX. If you have been following the AX Technology wave, most probably you must have realized that X++ knowledge alone will not guarantee 'bread n butter' :) in the future. Some of the related technologies for AX Developers which must also be looked at ( at least some basic conceptual
knowledge according to me) are:

.NET [Preferably C# / ASP.NET / VB.NET and the Visual Studio IDE :)],
{http://msdn.microsoft.com/vstudio/express/beginner/learningpath/default.aspx}
{http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/netframework/aa663328.aspx}
{http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/ie/bb188238.aspx}
{http://msdn2.microsoft.com/hi-in/office/aa905533.aspx}

Some conceptual / basic knowledge of XML & BTS for the AIF,
{http://msdn.microsoft.com/msdnmag/issues/01/07/xml/}
{http://www.microsoft.com/biztalk/default.mspx}

Some basic knowledge about Web Services,
{http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/webservices/Aa740691.aspx}

Understanding WSS/MOSS basics would be definitely helpful for the EP,
{http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/sharepointtechnology/FX100503841033.aspx}
{http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/sharepointserver/FX100492001033.aspx?ofcresset=1}

MSSQL 2005 [SSRS, SSAS , BI],
{http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms159106.aspx}
{http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms175609.aspx}

Some knowledge about Business Intellegence - PerformancePoint Server
{http://www.microsoft.com/bi/products/performancepoint-overview.aspx}

Some knowledge about MS office 2007 [ Word, Excel, Infopath ]
{http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/office/aa905434.aspx}
{http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/performancepoint/FX101680481033.aspx}

The Above list is NOT meant to scare anyone.




Its just a roadmap for the future. Its better to be prepared. Knowledge can never be thrown away and we will
definitely find use for it, someday, somewhere. Considering the way technology is progressing, keeping pace with it has become a challenge. However a clear roadmap, plan and preparation will definitely help.In case you have not visited, microsoftelearning, see the link below. There are great e learning tutorials.
https://www.microsoftelearning.com/

Apart from related technologies, there were some nice ISV solutions for Dynamics AX:

ISV Solutions - AX Vertical solutions
{http://www.microsoft.com/dynamics/ax/product/industrysolutions.mspx}

thy:data and TARGIT has a nice solution on BI for Dynamics AX.
{http://www.thydata.dk/?lang=en}
{http://www.targit.com/}

bi4Dynamics also has a nice solution on BI with Dynamics AX
{http://www.bi4dynamics.com/ax.asp}

FSB Development has a great feature in AX called Inventory II. Its really interesting.
{http://www.inventoryii.com/}

LS Retail with .NET POS for Dynamics AX
{http://www.lsretail.com/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=215}

Hapy DAXING :)

Copenhagen Convergence Review

Hiii. Im back from Copenhagen Convergence. It was a wonderful event where I got to meet some very important people from the Microsoft AX team and partners. It was a great experience . There were some good sessions on future of Dynamics AX, Dynamics AX 5.0 and related technologies. The event DVD will be put up at the following location:

http://shop.ecompanystore.com/mseventdvd/MSD_Shop.asp

Its a really good resource for people who missed the Convergence.
Some of the people from the Dynamics AX team I met were:
Bo Teilmann Petersen - Senior Program Manager AX Projects
Michael Fruergaard Pontoppidan (MFP) - Chief Architect Dynamics AX
Palle Agermark - thy:data
David Probst - Program Manager AX Service Management
Vijay Kurup - Program Manager Dynamics AX AOS Server
Jacob Nielsen - Director UX Team
Akshey Gupta - Program Manager Dynamics AX Manufacturing
The Dynamics UX Team consisting of JJ Guajardo, Hans Have, Allen Prier, Claus Råe

... and many other stalwarts of Microsoft Dynamics AX

It was great to meet these folks and learn so much.
I also had the opportunity to meet and work with other Dynamics MVP's.
Please see the album below for some moments @ the Convergence 2007 Copenhagen. I will be posting more on the events .
Cheers

Convergence 2007 Copenhagen

Microsoft Dynamics AX High Availability Options

Discover and learn about high availability methods to keep your Microsoft Dynamics AX solution up and running. There is a nice webcast on MPP site regarding AX High Availability on 12/5/2007 12:00 PM PST . Try not to miss it.

Click here for the link [ Requires MS Partner Program Access]

Microsoft Convergence 2007 : Copenhagen

Well finally Convergence 2007 Copenhagen has started today with the Partner meet. Lots of action planned during the next three days. I will be available at the Microsoft Product Group booth for the MVP Program in the main hall at the following times:

Tuesday 23rd - 14:30 - 15:30
Tuesday 23rd - 19:30 - 20:00
Wednesday 24th - 13:00-14:00
Thursday 25th - 12:00 - 13:00

Do drop in case you are attending Convergence.

Cheers :)

Microsoft Dynamics AX CLR Interop

The .NET BC allows managed code to interact with Dynamics AX. However the CLR Interop enables external managed components to be instantiated & executed from Dynamics AX. CLR Interop basically compliments .NET BC. The way in which CLR Interop and .NET BC works is shown below in a simple diagram (Fig 1).


CLR Interop is built into Dynamics AX Kernel. CLR Interop provides developers with the opportunity to develop / write managed components (Visual Studio 2005) to run on the .NET Framework and interoperate with Microsoft Dynamics AX.
In Dynamics AX 4.01, there is a node in the AOT called “References” (Fig 2).

You Drag n Drop your assemblies there and reference it using X++ code. I have attached a very simple video which demonstrates this. It is a powerful feature which has been incorporated in Dynamics AX 4.0.
The demo is very simple and is meant to demonstrate how easy it is to reference managed assemblies from AX (X++). Recently I was doing some R & D and thought I would share this simple example. [Its a home video - and definitely not the naughty kind ;-)]


The video (Full screen & moderate quality) can also be downloaded from the following link



Happy Daxing:)

Dynamics AX Quick Reference

There is a neat Password-protected online file storage from Windows Live team.
Its called "Windows Live Skydrive". Try it out. I have shared the Microsoft Dynamics AX Quick reference guide using Skydrive.
Its a nice guide for people who are looking for information on Microsoft Dynamics AX.

Dynamics Partner Information Blog (India)

Dynamics Partner Information Blog (India)

There's a new BLOG in town on Dynamics Partners (India). Its a nice initiative from Microsoft Dynamics India team. Contains Partner information resources, training calendars and other useful utilities. Have a look at it and pass on your feedback.

Link to BLOG

Updated documentation for Microsoft Dynamics Mobile Development Tools and Microsoft Dynamics AX Mobile Sales

This is a release for Microsoft Dynamics Mobile - Released 4. september 2007

The documentation for Microsoft Dynamics Mobile Development Tools and Microsoft Dynamics AX Mobile Sales 1.0 has been updated.
The following components have been added to the documentation:
-8 new tasklet reference guides for Microsoft Dynamics AX Mobile Sales
-Updated information about how to install and configure Microsoft Dynamics Mobile Development Tools and Microsoft Dynamics AX Mobile Sales
-Updated schema reference for UserRole.xml

Click here to Download {Requires Partnersource Logon}

Mobile solutions for Microsoft Dynamics™ AX: Announcing the release

This is a Release for Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 SP1 .

Download Microsoft Dynamics™ AX Mobile Sales and Microsoft Dynamics™ Mobile Development Tools:
The release contains
· Microsoft Dynamics Mobile Development Tools.zip, which contains the Server and the Framework Components for Microsoft Dynamics™ Mobile Development Tools Installers and Release notes.
· Microsoft Dynamics Mobile Sales.zip, which contains the installer for Microsoft Dynamics™ Mobile Sales and Release Notes.
· Documentation Installer for Microsoft Dynamics™ Mobile Development Tools and Mobile Sales.zip, which contains all documentation.
· Hands-on Lab Installer for Microsoft Dynamics™ Mobile Development Tools and Mobile Sales.zip, which contains hands-on labs for all products that can help in the learning of the products.

Click here to download {Requires Partnersource Logon}

Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 Documentation Updates

Download the list of file changes to Microsoft Dynamics AX Help documentation since December 2006. Monthwise updates are provided. Download the ones most appropriate for you.

Click to download {Requires Partnersource Logon}

Creating Sales Orders via X++

For beginner AX developers, I’m listing some codes which will help someone to create Sales Orders (Similar can be applied to PO) via X++ codes. This may be helpful to new Developers. [Level 200]

Some important Objects which are to be referred and understood are:
-Tables\SalesTable
-Tables\SalesLine
-Tables\InventDim
-Tables\CustTable
-Tables\InventTable
-Classes\SalesTableType {The InventType Hierarchy}

Sample Code [Very basic]

static void SalesOrderCreation(Args _args)
{
SalesTable salesTable;
NumberSeq NumberSeq;
SalesLine salesLine;
InventDim IDim;
;
ttsbegin;
NumberSeq = NumberSeq::newGetNumFromCode(SalesParameters::numRefSalesId).numberSequence);
//=======Table=======
salesTable.SalesId = NumberSeq.num();
salesTable.initValue();
salesTable.CustAccount = "4000"; //Enter Customer Acount
salesTable.initFromCustTable();
salesTable.InventLocationId = "GW";
salesTable.insert();
//========Line=======
salesLine.clear();
salesLine.SalesId = salesTable.SalesId;
salesLine.ItemId = "IS2082SAIL"; //Enter Item ID
IDim.InventColorId ="CU"; //Enter Item Dimensions
IDim.InventLocationId = "GW";
IDim = InventDim::findOrCreate(IDim);
salesLine.InventDimId = IDim.inventDimId;
salesLine.createLine(NoYes::Yes,
NoYes::Yes,
NoYes::Yes,
NoYes::Yes,
NoYes::Yes,
NoYes::Yes);
//===================
ttscommit;
Info(salesTable.SalesId);
}


The above code is very basic but will help you with the concepts and the same can be extended to create PO

Happy DAX-ing :)

Microsoft Dynamics™ AX Mobile

For those organizations with field sales, mobile professionals, mobile service technicians, or support staff, connected mobile solutions based on Microsoft Dynamics AX and the Windows Mobile® platform help open new business opportunities, drive increased productivity, and help reduce costs. Mobile solutions for Microsoft Dynamics AX provide a familiar, flexible, and financially compelling mobile solutions platform, which will enable Microsoft partners to create best-in-class mobile solutions for your customers.
Some nice resources (Presentations, whitepapers & current information surrounding Technical Launch Readiness for Microsoft Dynamics™ AX Mobile Sales and Microsoft Dynamics™ Mobile Development Tools) are available for download.

Click here to download {Requires Partnersource Logon}

Trace Parser (beta) tool for Microsoft Dynamics™ AX 4.0

The Microsoft Dynamics™ AX Trace Parser is a user interface and data analyzer built on top of the Event Tracing for Windows (ETW) framework added to Microsoft Dynamics™ AX 4.0. The ETW framework allows an administrator to conduct tracing with an overhead of approximately 4%. This low overhead allows administrators to diagnose performance problems in live environments as opposed to development environments.

The Trace Parser is built on top of Microsoft SQL Server 2005. It enables rapid analysis of traces to find the longest running code, longest running SQL query, highest call count and other metrics useful in debugging a performance problem. In addition, it provides a call tree of the code that was executed, giving the developer insight into the code, and the power to quickly become familiar with the flow of an unfamiliar piece of code. It also provides the ability to jump from the searching feature to the call tree, so that the person analyzing the trace can determine how the problematic code was called.

Click here to download the tool {Requires Partnersource Login}

Microsoft Dynamics Snap : Wave 2.0 Pre-Release

Microsoft Dynamics Snaps have now moved from GotDotNet to Codeplex. The Wave 2.0 Pre Release downloads can now be downloaded from Codeplex.

This pre-release also comprises of the following three phase 1 snap-ins upgraded to work with Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 and Microsoft Office 2007:
1. Business Data Lookup Snap-in
2. Vacation management Snap-in
3. Timesheet management Snap-in

Click here to download

Service Pack 2 for Microsoft Dynamics™ AX 4.0

Microsoft Dynamics AX SP2 is the latest release of Microsoft Dynamics™ AX.

Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 Service Pack 2 includes:
-Support for 15 different document AXDs in the Application Integration Framework.
-Updates and bug fixes to functionality shipped in Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 Service Pack 1. Changes include areas such as Financials, BI & Reporting, Client, Cost Accounting, Customer Relationship Management, Developer & Partner Productivity Tools, Enterprise Portal, Inventory Management, Manufacturing, Master Resource Planning, Product Builder, Project Accounting, Application Object Server, and Shop Floor Control.
-Several fixes focused on stabilizing the Client and Application Object Server. This was a main focus for SP2.

Click here to download {Requires Partnersource Logon}

CustomerSource {Requires Customersource Logon}

Post Ledger Transactions via X++

For beginner AX developers, I’m listing some codes which will help someone to post ledger transactions via X++ codes. This may be helpful to new Developers. [Level 200]

There are two ways to be considered when posting transactions:
1. Use the LedgerVoucher class and sub-classes API.
2. Use a journal Classes.

1. Use the LedgerVoucher class and sub-classes API.

The Classes are:
• LedgerVoucher - Posting {LedgerVoucher harnesses the posting of multiple vouchers at a time. }
• LedgerVoucherObject - Voucher {The LedgerVoucher class holds all the vouchers in temporary storage.}
• LedgerVoucherTransObject – Transactions {Holds transactions in each Voucher}

Instantiation of LedgerVoucher

LedgerVoucher::newLedgerPost(_detailSummary,
_sysModule,
_voucherSeriesCode,
[_transactionLogType,
_transactionLogText,
_approveJournal,
_posting]);

Instantiation of LedgerVoucherObject

LedgerVoucherObject::newVoucher(_voucher,
[_transDate,
_sysModule,
_ledgerTransType,
_correction,
_operationsTax,
_documentNum,
_documentDate]);

Instantiation of LedgerVoucherTransObject

LedgerVoucherTransObject newCreateTrans(_ledgerVoucherObject,
_ledgerPostingType,
_ledgerAccount,
_dimension,
_currencyCode,
_amountCur,
_sourceTableId,
_sourceRecId,
[_qty,
_exchRate ,
_exchRateSecond,
_exchRatesTriangulation,
_markBridging ,
ProjLedger,
AmountMST ])

Sample Code
static void LedgerVoucherAPISample(Args _args)
{
LedgerVoucher _LedgerVoucher;
LedgerVoucherObject _LedgerVoucherObject;
LedgerVoucherTransObject _LedgerVoucherTransObject;
NumberSeq _NumberSeq;
Dimension _Dimension;

NumberSequenceCode _VoucherCode = 'Ledger_3'; // 'Ledger_3' is the voucher Numbersequence in the Path AX>General Ledger>Setup>Journals>Journal Names. Its the Voucher Numref for the Journal Name :)
LedgerAccount _Account = '110180';
LedgerAccount _OffsetAccount = '140270';
AmountCur _AmountCur = 12345.67;

ttsbegin;
_NumberSeq = NumberSeq::newGetVoucherFromCode(_VoucherCode);
_LedgerVoucher = LedgerVoucher::newLedgerPost(DetailSummary::Detail,
SysModule::Ledger,
_VoucherCode);
_LedgerVoucherObject = LedgerVoucherObject::newVoucher(_NumberSeq.voucher());
_LedgerVoucher.addVoucher(_LedgerVoucherObject);
_LedgerVoucherTransObject = LedgerVoucherTransObject::newCreateTrans(_LedgerVoucherObject,
LedgerPostingType::LedgerJournal,
_Account,
_Dimension,
CompanyInfo::standardCurrency(),
_AmountCur,
0,
0);
_LedgerVoucherTransObject.parmTransTxt("Arijit Basu");
_LedgerVoucher.addTrans(_LedgerVoucherTransObject);
_LedgerVoucherTransObject = LedgerVoucherTransObject::newCreateTrans(_LedgerVoucherObject,
LedgerPostingType::LedgerJournal,
_OffsetAccount,
_Dimension,
CompanyInfo::standardCurrency(),
_AmountCur*-1,
0,
0);
_LedgerVoucherTransObject.parmTransTxt("Arijit Basu");
_LedgerVoucher.addTrans(_LedgerVoucherTransObject);
_LedgerVoucher.end();

ttscommit;
}

2. Use a journal Classes.

The tables used are LedgerJournalName, LedgerJournalTable, and LedgerJournalTrans.
The steps are:
• Create a journal table record {Table\LedgerJournalTable}
• Create lines for each transaction to be posted {Table\LedgerJournalTrans}.
• Post the journal. {Classes\LedgerJournalCheckPost}

Sample Code

static void LedgerJournalCheckPostDemo(Args _args)
{
LedgerJournalTable _LedgerJournalTable;
LedgerJournalTrans _LedgerJournalTrans;
LedgerJournalCheckPost _LedgerJournalCheckPost;
NumberSeq _NumberSeq;

ttsbegin;
//----Journal Header
_LedgerJournalTable.JournalName = 'Day1';
_LedgerJournalTable.initFromLedgerJournalName();
_LedgerJournalTable.Name = 'Daily Journal';
_LedgerJournalTable.insert();
//----Journal Line
_NumberSeq =NumberSeq::newGetVoucherFromCode(LedgerJournalName::find(_LedgerJournalTable.JournalName).VoucherSeries);
_LedgerJournalTrans.Voucher =_NumberSeq.voucher();
_LedgerJournalTrans.JournalNum =_LedgerJournalTable.JournalNum;
_LedgerJournalTrans.CurrencyCode =CompanyInfo::standardCurrency();
_LedgerJournalTrans.ExchRate =Currency::exchRate(_LedgerJournalTrans.CurrencyCode);
_LedgerJournalTrans.AccountNum ='110180';
_LedgerJournalTrans.AmountCurDebit =1000;
_LedgerJournalTrans.TransDate =Today();
_LedgerJournalTrans.OffsetAccount ='140270';
_LedgerJournalTrans.Txt ='Arijit Basu :)';
_LedgerJournalTrans.insert();
//----Journal Posting
_LedgerJournalCheckPost =LedgerJournalCheckPost::newLedgerJournalTable(_LedgerJournalTable,NoYes::Yes);
_LedgerJournalCheckPost.run();
ttscommit;
Info(StrFmt("Journal %1 is posted",_LedgerJournalTable.JournalNum));
}

Happy DAXing :)

Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services Integration

Microsoft Dynamics AX captures data in the form of discrete business transactions. These transactions need to be analyzed and trends understood for businesses to make informed decisions. To help answer these questions, Microsoft Dynamics AX provices integration with Microsoft SQL Server Business Intelligence tools such as SQL Server reporting Services and SQL Server Analysis Services. There is a nice Demo Script will show how Microsoft Dynamics AX uses Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services.

Click here to download [Requires Partnersource Logon]

Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 SP1 Role based Business Intelligence

There is a nice demo script which shows how Microsoft Dynamics™ AX integrates with Microsoft® SQL Server Analysis Services, Office Excel®, and Office SharePoint® Server to enable users to get access to the information they need in a way that is relevant to their role.

Click here to download [ Requires Partnersource Logon ]

Mobile solutions for Microsoft Dynamics AX

Microsoft Dynamics AX Mobile Sales is the first mobile application for Microsoft Dynamics AX. Mobile Sales is RoleTailored and task-oriented and an ideal solution for field sales representatives and other mobile employees who need to work in remote locations. Using Mobile Sales, field sales representatives can plan visits, review relevant sales information, and create orders. Mobile employees can use the calendar and task functionality of Microsoft Pocket Outlook® directly from the application to get a full view of their daily activities.


Click on the image to learn more

Convergence 2007 Copenhagen

Convergence is the premier Microsoft Dynamics event, bringing customers, partners, team members and industry experts together in an environment created for you to discuss solutions, address business needs and establish a true community that can be leveraged throughout the year. Its a must attend for all Dynamics folks.

Lots n Lots n Lots of Dynamics........ Lots of Action :)
Microsoft is excited to offer over 115 breakout sessions at Convergence 2007 Copenhagen built around the 10 core tracks. All sessions will be posted within the Communications Network in mid June. The Communications Network is the repository for all information to build your personal schedule while attending Convergence, including Keynote Schedules, Breakout Sessions, Chalk & Talks and much more.
Microsoft Dynamics GP
Microsoft Dynamics AX
Microsoft Dynamics NAV
Microsoft Dynamics CRM
Microsoft Dynamics C5
Microsoft Dynamics Mobile
Integrated Innovation with Microsoft Platform
Business Intelligence
Industry
Services

Click to go to the landing page.

Setting Up a Traditional Perimeter Network for Enterprise Portal

A high-level overview of how to set up a traditional perimeter network to support a Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 Enterprise Portal.It's a nice detailed document and a must read.

Click here to download

Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services Integration

Demo Script for Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 SP1

Microsoft Dynamics AX captures data in the form of discrete business transactions. These transactions need to be analyzed and trends understood for businesses to make informed decisions. To help answer these questions, Microsoft Dynamics AX provices integration with Microsoft SQL Server Business Intelligence tools such as SQL Server reporting Services and SQL Server Analysis Services. This demo will show how Microsoft Dynamics AX uses Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services.

Click here to download {Requires Partnersource Logon}

Dynamics AX EnterprisePortal Dashboard

I was researching about how to create dashboards for the EP and I came across a wonderful Tool called Dundas Chart for SharePoint. You can get more detailed information by visiting their website.

Dundas Chart for SharePoint is a must-have for those looking to add advanced charting functionality to SharePoint 2007 projects which can easily be extended to AX EP ( WSS 2.0 & WSS 3.0). Its really very simple and you do not have to write any .NET codes. The output is stunning, eye popping. Its a great feature which can be deployed on AX EP. For this you must get the required DUNDAS Components (I've used a Trial Copy so there is a watermark).

Its a MUST lookout for the DAX EP and the results are awesome. It can easily be configured and the best part is that its all within the AX portal. I have configured this chart with Dynamics AX Demo data (The Global Trade & Manufacturing Company data for 4.01). My EP is on WSS 3.0 & .NET 3.0. Ive created a new EP Header by customizing the Web Menu \Web\Web Menus\EPGlobalMenuV3 to incorporate the new page named " Dashboard".
EP Developers, Sales teams must have a look.



Configuration is simple , theres a nice wizard :)



There are lots of stunning graphs to choose from and all this can easily be done by an end user with little training.



A MUST try out :)
For Licensing & Costs you need to contact DUNDAS.

Hot Fixes released for Microsoft Dynamics™ AX 4.0

View a list of all hot fixes released by Microsoft for Dynamics™ AX 4.X.

There is a separate section for Microsoft Dynamics™ AX 4.0 and Microsoft Dynamics™ AX 4.0 Service Pack 1. Each section is sorted by the month the hot fix was released with the most recent month at the top of the section.

Click here to access { Requires Partnersource Logon}

A small note

Hi everybody. Firstly I would like to thank everyone who visits this BLOG. Its been a great inspiration from you. I have received many comments about the posts. In case you require some source code of my projects and you have posted a comment, please also mention your email id in the comment . Or else please mail me at arijit.basu@gmail.com. That will help me reply to the comments. Thanks again.

Microsoft Dynamics Developer Center on MSDN

Check out the MSDN – Microsoft Dynamics Developer Center. Landing page for developer content across all Microsoft Dynamics CRM, Microsoft Dynamics GP, Dynamics AX and NAV..
Great Resource :) Click on the MSDN logo



Happy DAX-ing :)

Search Windows Live from AX

I finally got some free time and was doing some R & D on Windows Live Services, trying to explore some ways of using these services within AX. I found the Live Search Box resources and wrote some code within AX so that any user can search Windows Live [ and my BLOG :) ] within AX. Its really very simple . Before trying it yourself, go through these links below:
Windows Live Services
Live Search Box
This small utility will allow users to search Live.Com within AX (Provided he has Internet Access). It looks like this :)
You can search any specific page and also Live Search.


Happy Searching :)

Microsoft Surface :)

Have a look on the Microsoft new computing Device called "Surface" aka Project code "Milan".
'Surface' will change the way we look at computing.
Click on the image & link below to learn more. Its awesome :)


Microsoft unveils revolutionary device

Known Issues when upgrading to Microsoft Dynamics™ AX 4.0

This page in Partnersource includes Known Issues when upgrading Microsoft Business Solutions - Axapta 3.0 to Microsoft Dynamics™ AX 4.0. It contains references to existing documentation, corrections and addendums to existing documentation as well as technical issues that may not be documented anywhere else. Its a must read.

Click here to access { Requires Partnersource Logon}

Tech.Ed SEA 2007

Tech•Ed SEA 2007, Microsoft’s premier & largest annual conference in the South East Asia region, focuses on newly released products such as of Microsoft Office along with content about upcoming releases such as Windows Server code name "Longhorn".

At Tech•Ed SEA 2007, you'll get to meet the best experts of SEA [not Captain Jack Sparrow and his crew of the Black Pearl ;-) ]

For four days in September, you can get technical training, information and resources to help you build, deploy, secure, mobilize, and manage solutions.

Tech•Ed SEA 2007 features:

• More than 120 breakout sessions
  This year’s event will feature even more speakers from Microsoft Corporation allowing you to hear about your favorite technologies from the sources who develop them. Create a personal learning program from 6 technical tracks with more than 120 breakout sessions.

• Hands-on experiences
  Tech•Ed offers opportunities to evaluate products both from Microsoft and from 250 of our most important industry partners. Additionally, based on attendee feedback from last year, we will be more than doubling the number of Instructor Led Lab sessions as well as introducing a whole host of new self-paced Hands On Lab content.

• Networking with your peers
  Walking around Tech•Ed are more than 2,000 minds just like yours. 2,000 IT pros and developers to meet. 2,000 opinions to consider. Add to the mix Microsoft product team members and industry gurus and you will immediately see why a Tech•Ed crowd is like no other.

Tech•Ed is a one-of-a-kind experience.

Click on the image to register :)

Agenda is unavailable as of now. Wish Microsoft would consider including some tracks / sessions on Microsoft Dynamics.

NumberSequences:: Deep Dive

Previously I had posted about how to create new NumberSequences in AX for both existing & new modules. I'll share some important objects about NumberSequences.Number sequences handle the automatic allocation of ID numbers, vouchers, andjournal numbers.
A number sequence is created under
MAIN MENU->BASIC->SETUP->NUMBERSEQUENCES->NUMBER SEQUENCE.

From a developers point of view, these are the tables which are important.

• NumberSequenceTable contains the definitions of each number sequence.
• NumberSequenceList holds numbers for continuous number sequences that have not been completed or are currently reserved.
• NumberSequenceReference holds which number sequence is used for which function.
• NumberSequenceGroup is a list of number sequence groups.
• NumberSequenceGroupRef contains the number sequence references specific to a group.
• NumberSequenceTTS holds the transaction id of a number before it has been completely assigned. It is used during the clean up process, in case of a system crash.
• NumberSequenceHistory holds a log of all changes made to the number sequence.

From a developers point of view, these are the classes which are important.

• NumberSeq assigns numbers and vouchers, handles continuous number sequences, and calls clean up when appropriate.
• NumberSeq_Fast is used for number sequences that are not continuous. It does not keep a record of the status or store transaction ids for later clean up, and is better performance wise.
• NumberSeqCleanUp looks for numbers in the list that have not been completed, looks for the session that created them, and, if the session is no longer active, frees up the number for later use.
• NumberSeqDataArea is used in the clean up process.
• NumberSeqFormHandler is used whenever a number sequence assigns a number in a form. It handles records being deleted and ensures that two users cannot use the same number.
• NumberSeqReference creates the link between the function and the number sequence. NumberSeqReference is the super class used, and there is a sub class for each module.
• NumberSeqNumCache contains the method to manipulate the cache of reserved numbers.

Happy Numbersequencing :)

Microsoft Dynamics enables Real-World SOA to connect your business vision with software

Businesses need to connect processes, people, and information within the organization and across organizational boundaries. Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) is an emerging architectural style that helps meet these demands. Microsoft Dynamics has made investments in Web services and other SOA technologies across our product lines to help organizations take a "Real-World" approach to SOA.


Click here to download the white paper to learn more about SOA and Dynamics

Microsoft TechMela 2007 | INDIA

TechMela is an evolution of the erstwhile TechEd, Mobile and Embedded Developers' Conference, and IndiMIX. TechMela is a fusion of the latest technologies, business gurus, and structured learning experiences - all you can ask for, in one grand, mother-of-all-tech-events! Its a must attend . Registrations open. Click on the image below for the TechMela landing page.

DAX 4.01 .NET Business Connector: Microsoft.Dynamics.BusinessConnectorNet

The Business Connector is a Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 component that enables external applications to interact with Application Object Server instances.

Microsoft.Dynamics.BusinessConnectorNet

Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 now includes two versions of the Business Connector; a COM version, and the new .NET version.The .NET Business Connector provides a set of managed classes that provide easy access to X++ functionality in
Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0. It is installed with and used to support the functionality in the EP server, Reporting server,and Application integration server roles. The .NET Business Connector can be installed as a stand-alone component, and used to develop third-party applications that integrate with Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0.

The .NET Business Connector consists of 3 layers:

•Managed classes: Exposes public methods that can be called to interact with Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0.
•Transition layer: Maps the managed classes to the corresponding interpreter functions.
•Interpreter layer: Executes X++ and communicates with the Application Object Server.

.NET Connector Overview

•The .NET Business Connector is a versatile, general-purpose component that enables managed applications to be
developed against Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0.
•It uses the Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0.
•A set of public managed classes let you invoke X++ business logic and access data in Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0.
•You can use the .NET Business Connector to implement and deploy both client-based applications, such as a Microsoft
Excel add-in, and server-based applications.
•When the .NET Business Connector is hosted within IIS, it provides access to the managed (ASP.NET) http context
from X++, (this is used by the AX Web framework to enable Web-based functionality).
•The Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 CLR Interop feature can be invoked from the .NET Business Connector to instantiate
and use external managed components from X++ code that is executed in the .NET Business Connector interpreter.
•A mechanism is provided for securely impersonating AX users {LogonAs()}(this is required in certain deployment
topologies).
•Both the AX EP and the AIF Web Services use the .NET Business Connector.

I did some R & D on this .NET Business Connector and made a very simple C# Windows Application which demonstrates this feature. The files can be downloaded from the link below.

_________________________________________________________
.NET AX Simple e.g.
(You need to log in to http://www.whatisaxapta.com/).

AXFORUM (Russian Site)
{The Files can be downloaded from here. Thanks Ivan :) }
_________________________________________________________

The Zipped file contains a AX Class which you must import into AX (AX 4.01) and an EXE file. To execute this you must have the .NET BC Client installed on your PC. The EXE uses the existing Windows user to Log into AX. Make sure this is configured.



Setup the components and Run the EXE.Click "File" and then "Fetch/Refresh". The output should be something like the pix above. Click on Help menu to know more :)

Its really a very simple example. You can definitely R & D other features like perhaps create a small Desktop gadget that shows relevant AX Information or perhaps even a VISTA Sidebar gadget (in future when AX runs on VISTA).
Lemme know in case of any issues.

Happy DAXing :)

Microsoft Dynamics™ AX 3.0 Service Pack 6

Microsoft Dynamics™ AX 3.0 Service Pack 6 has been released. Click on the link below to download the SYP/GLP corrections as well as a download for each updated DIS/DIP layer.

Microsoft Dynamics™ AX 3.0 Service Pack 6 {Requires Partnersource Logon}

Microsoft shows off DigiDesk workstation of the future

Awesome innovation. Maybe someday AX will be used like this :)

Quick Reference Guide White Paper for Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0

There's a new Quick Reference Guide White Paper for Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 in Partnersource. Its really nice and gives a great overview of DAX. Click below to download {Requires Partnersource Logon}

Microsoft Dynamics vs SAP ERP End-User Business Productivity Study

A study is available at partnersource which measured how end users of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) applications describe the impact of Microsoft and SAP applications on their business productivity. This research found that Microsoft Dynamics end users on average rated their experience with Microsoft applications more favorably than SAP users rated their experience with SAP.


Click here to download {Requires Partnersource Logon}

Elements changed between versions of Microsoft Dynamics AX - {Download now available}

Sometimes back I had posted on "Elements changed between versions of Microsoft Dynamics AX". However the download links were not functioning on that page. MS has modified the download links. Now you can download the files.

Elements changed between versions of Microsoft Dynamics AX {Requires partnersource Logon}