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Re: new to databases

From: Gabriel Gonzalez <no-spam_at_no-spam.com>
Date: Wed, 19 Mar 2003 13:39:05 -0800
Message-ID: <KaydnVXI6fp4feWjXTWckg@giganews.com>


> how exactly this database is stored. For instance, if I need to run this
> program on a computer that does not have oracle, is it possible to use
> this database? (i.e. is there a way to have the database created and not

Not unless you are connected to the db somehow (via some network link that transports TCP/IP, or another supported protocol).

> not possible, would I be better off using Access, which is more
> available?(Also, is it possible with Access to write embedded SQL and pull
> info from Access databases?) Thanks for the help.

Depends on what you want to do.

Oracle's more for "bog" stuff. Lots of data (where "lots" is more than [more or less] 200,000 records. This is a _very_ subjective figure, but it's ball-park), lots of users, lots of transactions, very high availability, extremely robust. With Oracle (and other bid DBs) you never modify the data files directly. You always talk to the RDBMS programs running on the server, even if you are running the database locally. These systems are very expensive.

Desktop databases (Access, Clipper, dBase, FoxPro, Paradox, etc...) are different. They are much simpler and you do not have a separate "server" process running. You always manipulate the data files directly (usually via drivers nowadays) and you have a higher risk of data corruption. Much fewer users are supported (the most is about 20, although you can push it very to about 60 with some of the data file formats mentioned). Price is extremely cheap (free).

Each database type has its application, and none is better than another inherently. You have to choose the best DB for the specific job at hand.

Having said that, if you need help in choosing, or have any other questions, ask again, but with more information as to what you intend to do. Received on Wed Mar 19 2003 - 15:39:05 CST

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