When you do this ...

PUBLIC gnConnectionHandle
gnConnectionHandle = SQLSTRINGCONNECT(lcConnectionString)

... (where lcConnectionString is a valid connection string to a SQL Server database), what is the lifespan and stability of gnConnectionHandle? That is, obviously it is a global variable, and is scoped to the application, but what if SQL Server is taken off line or some network problem severs the connection for the user or the user leaves the application idle all day/night/week/... (forgets to log off and goes on vacation for a month)?

Also, what is the best way to check to confirm that gnConnectionHandle is still valid within the application, and if not reconnect to SQL Server?

Any thoughts, pointers or leads to good information (links) on these issues would be appreciated.

Thanks.