Can anyone see if they can reproduce this behavoir. Its not a huge problem, but im just curious whats happening... In query analyser - sql 2000 Paste this, the example in BOL for showplan_text.... SET SHOWPLAN_TEXT ON GO USE pubs SELECT * FROM roysched WHERE lorange < 5000 GO SET SHOWPLAN_TEXT OFF GO When the database in query analyser is set to PUBS, this returns instantly, with the expected result set. If the database is set to any other (in the drop down list), the query stalls and never returns. It must be cancelled. I wonder if it occurs on anyone elses server?