Wait Type PREEMPTIVE_COM_SETPARAMETERPROPE

Wait statistics, in the context of SQL Server, refer to the amount of time that a query spends waiting to access data in the database. When a client application requests data from the database, the request is placed in a queue and the client application must wait for its turn to access the data. The time that the query spends waiting is called a "wait" and is tracked by SQL Server. This information can be used to identify potential performance bottlenecks and optimize the performance of the database. Wait statistics are commonly used by database administrators to diagnose and troubleshoot performance issues in SQL Server.

SQL Server uses wait types to indicate where processes may encounter delays. The PREEMPTIVE_COM_SETPARAMETERPROPE wait type is associated with SQL Server’s interaction with external COM (Component Object Model) components. It occurs when SQL Server is setting property values on a COM object in preemptive mode. Understanding this wait type can help pinpoint potential performance issues in systems that integrate with external COM-based operations.

What Is the PREEMPTIVE_COM_SETPARAMETERPROPE Wait Type?

The PREEMPTIVE_COM_SETPARAMETERPROPE wait type appears when SQL Server is executing a call to set parameter properties on a COM object. This is a preemptive operation, meaning SQL Server temporarily yields the CPU to allow the external component to perform its work without being interrupted. It is common in scenarios involving OLE Automation, linked servers, or other integrations relying on COM components.

When Does PREEMPTIVE_COM_SETPARAMETERPROPE Appear?

This wait type typically arises in the following scenarios:

• OLE Automation Procedures – When using procedures such as sp_OASetProperty to set properties on a COM object.
• Linked Server Queries – When SQL Server communicates with linked servers that use COM-based providers.
• Integration with External Systems – Applications relying on COM components to handle business logic or external data retrieval.
• Extended Stored Procedures – When custom stored procedures use COM components that require property configuration during execution.

Why PREEMPTIVE_COM_SETPARAMETERPROPE Waits Matter

While some PREEMPTIVE_COM_SETPARAMETERPROPE waits are expected in systems that use external COM components, prolonged waits can point to inefficiencies or bottlenecks. Common causes include:

• Slow COM Components – External systems may take too long to process property-setting requests.
• Network Latency – For distributed setups, high network latency can increase wait times for remote COM calls.
• Resource Constraints – Insufficient CPU, memory, or disk resources on the external system can delay operations.
• High Frequency of COM Calls – Overusing COM-based integrations can lead to significant cumulative wait times.

How to Address PREEMPTIVE_COM_SETPARAMETERPROPE Waits

To reduce the impact of this wait type, consider the following strategies:

• Optimize COM Interactions – Minimize the number of property-setting calls or batch them where possible.
• Improve External System Performance – Ensure the external COM component has sufficient resources and is optimized for faster execution.
• Enhance Network Performance – Optimize network connectivity to reduce latency for remote COM operations.
• Review Application Design – Avoid excessive reliance on COM components; consider alternative architectures or technologies.
• Monitor Linked Servers – Ensure linked server configurations are optimized and using efficient providers.

Monitoring PREEMPTIVE_COM_SETPARAMETERPROPE Waits

To monitor this wait type, use SQL Server’s sys.dm_os_wait_stats to analyze occurrences and durations. For deeper insights, query dynamic management views such as sys.dm_exec_requests to identify active processes experiencing these waits. Tools like Database Health Monitor provide comprehensive wait type analysis, helping you identify and address performance bottlenecks more effectively.

Stedman Solutions offers expert SQL Server performance tuning and optimization services. If you’re experiencing wait types like PREEMPTIVE_COM_SETPARAMETERPROPE or other performance challenges, we can help. Our Database Health Monitor tool delivers powerful real-time analysis of waits and system health, while our managed services provide reliable support to ensure your SQL Server environment runs at its best. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your SQL Server needs.

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Applies to

• SQL Server 2022

Related Waits

See Also

• More About PREEMPTIVE_COM_SETPARAMETERPROPE