Lecture 2: Introduction to Databases Flashcards

1
Q

Define data

A

A collection of numbers, images, etc. Data that is given meaning by way of a relational connection (Bob 10 = data —> Bob is 10 years old).

Data is:
- Representation of fact, figure, idea
- Processed by human
- Stored and processed in a compter

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2
Q

What is a database?

A

Electronic file storage where you can input everything you want to store for future reference. The output = the input. A database must be easily accessible

Several definitions:
- Structured collection of records or data that is stored in a computer system
- A persistent repository of data stored in a computer
- A collection of related data
- A tool that stores data and lets you create, read, update, and delete the data in some manner

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3
Q

What is a DBMS?

A

Software designed to store and manage databases

Most DBMSs are used to manage relational databases

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4
Q

Why is a DBMS created?

A

To manage the huge amout of data

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5
Q

What does a DBMS provide?

A
  • Data independence and efficient access
  • Reduced application development time
  • Data integrity and security
  • Data administration
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6
Q

Examples of DBMS

A
  • Microsoft SQL server (entire management system, not just the database)
  • Oracle DB
  • PostgreSQL (open source, slower than the rest)
  • MySQL (open source, best of all world scenarios, main DBMS in this course)
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7
Q

What are essential elements of DBMS

A
  • Implementation of a modelling language: Data model can be represented by data schema. With modeling language, the scheme of each database is defined
  • Data structures: Allows DBMS to interact with the data without damaging it
  • Data query language
  • Transactions: Basis unit of change as seen by the DBMS. Bijv. simultane toegang
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8
Q

DB types

A
  • Flat file
  • Windows system registry
  • Hierarchical DB
  • Network DB
  • Object database (has the ability to store multimedia)
  • Relational DB
  • Multidimensional database (Similar to relational database. Cube-like model and easy to maintain)
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9
Q

Explain flat file DB

A

DB just containing text. Simple way to store data

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10
Q

Explain Windows system registry

A

– Hierarchical database
– Hold configuration information for the OS,
applications
– Not for huge amounts of data
– Not for data that changes very frequently

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11
Q

Explain hierarchical DB

A

Not for huge amounts of data. Reconds’ relationships form a tree-like structure. One-to-many relationship (= not flexible)

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12
Q

Explain network DB

A
  • Collection of nodes that are connected by links
    • Complex relationships
  • Many records and accesses them by following
    one of several paths
  • Many‐to‐many relationships
  • Not common
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