RE: decision to use or not use an rman catalog?

Sure, but in Ryan's case it sounded to me like they were using hardware only, i.e. backing up via BCV copy only with no tapes.  

Yes, you have to rely on the tape management software's retention policies so best to double-check them your self (e.g. via bpclimagelist for Veritas Netbackup).

From: oracle-l-bounce_at_freelists.org
[mailto:oracle-l-bounce_at_freelists.org] On Behalf Of Mike Schmitt  

BCV copies can still be sent off to tape, can't they? Main difference that I would see is that you would then be using the tape management software's retention policies, instead of RMAN's.    

Privileged/Confidential Information may be contained in this message or attachments hereto. Please advise immediately if you or your employer do not consent to Internet email for messages of this kind. Opinions, conclusions and other information in this message that do not relate to the official business of this company shall be understood as neither given nor endorsed by it.

--
http://www.freelists.org/webpage/oracle-l