Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 August Community Technology Preview (CTP) is now available for public download and testing. In addition, there’re two options to access the trial: First, you can download CTP at Microsoft TechNet Evaluation Center. If you’re participating in the Office 2010 Technical Preview, you can also download a CTP of the Project “Gemini” Excel add-in from the Microsoft Connect site for “Gemini”.  And second option’s through Professional Association of SQL Server (PASS) organization, offering a quick and easy preview of the Application and Multi-server Management capabilities in a virtual environment – a great way to explore the new features before downloading the full trial. The hosted trial’ll be available on Friday, August 14th at here.

Also registration for PASS Summit, November 2-5, 2009, Seattle is now open and for those planning to attend and there’s an early bird discount on the registration fee.