One day prior to March, Microsoft has released the "March" Orcas CTP. This update is available as a VPC image or standard installer package. You will need a speedy connection as you will need to download 4.5 - 8 gig of data to try these out.

This CTP is supposed to include much more of the functionality previously available in the May LINQ CTP and includes a number of other additions. Naturally, I am excited to try the new drop out to see how much I will need to change my existing code. I know that there will be some changes as the base namespaces have evolved since the Dlinq and Xlinq names are no longer used.

In addition, I look forward to trying out the following new features: 

  • LINQ To SQL Designer - Methods can be created from stored procedures and functions within the designer.
  • Web designer - JScript intellisense for ASP.NET AJAX and browser DOM
  • Web - LINQ to SQL designer integration in websites and web applications
  • Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) Designer (“Cider”) & Application Tools

There are plenty of other enhancements which should offer something for everyone interested in working on the bleeding edge. Check out the download link at http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=B533619A-0008-4DD6-9ED1-47D482683C78&displaylang=en for a full feature list of this drop.