> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.monokot.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.monokot.io/scripts/programming-examples/how-to-execute-sql.md).

# How to: Execute SQL

This guide demonstrates how to create an expression that executes an SQL query to a PostgreSQL database using the ODBC driver. The ODBC driver for PostgreSQL must be installed on the target machine before starting. 

{% hint style="warning" %}
Please note that calling the *executeScalar* function will immediately put the script module into demo mode if it is not licensed
{% endhint %}

Open Monokot Server Administrator and double-click *Scripts* on the *Server Explorer* pane. Click *New Expression*, set the name *PgDateTime* for the expression that appears and set the *STRING* type for the return data. Insert the following code into the expression code editor:

```javascript
var connectionString = 'DRIVER={PostgreSQL UNICODE};Server=localhost;Port=5432;UID=postgres;PWD=qwerty;';
return MosOdbc.executeScalar(connectionString, 'SELECT now();');
```

Note that in the server connection line you need to specify your server credentials (*Server, Port, UID, PWD*). Press *Ctrl + Enter* to apply the change in the code editor.

Go to the *Triggers* tab and click *Add Periodic*. In order for the changes to take effect on the server, click the Sync button. Thus, the expression will return the current date and time received from PostgreSQL every 500 ms.

You can find the full set of *MosOdbc* functions and their descriptions [<mark style="color:blue;">here</mark>](/scripts/api/mosodbc.md).


---

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