What does it do?

The structure of an SQL database involves several components that have a bearing on the performance of the database.

The database engine, or SQL server is a high-performance application that services user requests, and does the searching, sorting, and retrieval functions on the database files. It runs on top of an standard operating system, which in the PC arena, generally means either Macintosh System 7.x, OS/2, Windows NT, Netware, or SCO UNIX. The computing demands of this application require a high-performance 32-bit operating system in order to work properly.

The SQL client is an application that runs on the user workstation, on its operating system. It provides the user interface and structures the communications with the database server.

The other component involved is the network the database is running on, which is generally dictated by the operating system the SQL server uses.

How is it used?
SQL databases are complex relational databases with many security and data integrity features. They are frequently used in very heavy transaction processing environments. Until recently, these types of databases could not be run on PC platforms, because both the hardware and software were incapable of handling the processing demands. With the development of processors such as the PowerPC and development of newer high-powered 32-bit operating systems, it is now feasible to run these applications on PC platforms. Symmetrical multi-processing (SMP) systems promise to be the wave of the future for these applications.

These databases are one of the most common application services. Many downsizing initiatives have been driven by the development of credible PC-based SQL databases, which have allowed large databases, previously confined to proprietary host systems, to be migrated to an open, distributed processing environment.

Where do I get more information?
Contact your local CBV Office.