The most comprehensive introduction to database programming and performance available.

A complete and practical introduction to database management systems for anyone who is, or wishes to become, a database administrator, application programmer, or sophisticated SQL user. Patrick O'Neil's pragmatic approach to programming and performance within commercial settings teaches you to create bug-free applications with the most efficient use of resources.

Starting with fundamental relational concepts, the author presents a full range of information about database standards and products, including Oracle, Ingres, DB2 and Sybase, and provides detailed, step- by-step coverage of SQL and database transaction programming.

More informative than standard listings of embedded SQL features, O'Neil's presentation of embedded SQL * including dynamic SQL) and forms-based application programming is so detailed that it enables you to write your own programs in C. Numerous exercises (with solutions) are provided to reinforce the skills needed to produce operational queries and programs. You'll also learn a number of limitations of interactive SQL and how to surmount these limitations in programs. Logical database design is also explained in depth and applied to the discussion of integrity constraints.