Lecture 1 Summary – Database Systems
1. File Terminology
● Data are raw facts.
● A Field is a group of characters with a specific meaning (e.g., rent, clientNo).
● A Record is a collection of logically related fields describing an entity (e.g., a
lease).
● A File is a collection of related records.
In traditional systems, data was stored in files where each record occupied a
fixed number of bytes and was stored sequentially.
2. Traditional File-Based Systems
A file-based system consists of separate application programs.
Each program defines and manages its own data.
Characteristics:
● Data is stored in independent files.
● Each file is a sequence of records.
● Programs directly handle file definitions and storage structure.
3. Limitations of File-Based Systems
1. Separation and Isolation of Data
Data is scattered across multiple files, making access and integration difficult.
2. Duplication of Data
The same data may appear in multiple files, leading to:
● Wasted storage space
● Extra data entry cost
● Data inconsistency (loss of integrity)
3. Data Dependence
File structure is embedded in application code.
Any structural change requires modifying programs.
4. Incompatibility of Files
File structures depend on the programming language used, causing integration
problems.
5. Fixed Queries
Systems depend on developers.
Unplanned queries are not supported without writing new programs.
4. Database Approach
The database approach solves file-based limitations by:
● Separating data definition from application programs.
● Providing centralized control over data access.
Definition of a Database
A database is a shared collection of logically related data and its description, designed
to meet the information needs of an organization.
Main Features:
● Single integrated repository
● Shared by multiple users and departments
● Minimal data duplication
● Corporate resource (not owned by one department)
● Self-describing (stores metadata)
The metadata is stored in the system catalog (data dictionary).
5. Basic Database Concepts
Entity
A distinct object in the organization (person, place, thing, event).
Attribute
A property describing an entity.
Relationship
An association between entities.
Example:
● A branch employs staff.
● A client leases a property.
● An owner owns properties.
6. Database Management System (DBMS)
A DBMS is software that enables users to define, create, maintain, and control access to
the database.
It provides:
● DDL (Data Definition Language) to define structure.
● DML (Data Manipulation Language) to insert, update, delete, and retrieve data.
Main Functions:
● Security control
● Integrity control
● Concurrency control
● Recovery control
● User-accessible catalog
7. Application Programs
Application programs interact with the database by sending requests (usually
SQL statements) to the DBMS.
Programs do not access data directly; the DBMS manages all data operations.
8. Views
A view is a customized presentation of database data.
Benefits:
● Reduces complexity
● Provides security
● Customizes data appearance
● Maintains consistent structure even if underlying database changes
9. Components of the DBMS Environment
1. Hardware
Physical devices used to run the system.
2. Software
● DBMS software
● Application programs
● Operating system
● Network software
3. Data
The most important component from the user’s perspective.
4. Procedures
Rules and instructions for database use, backup, recovery, and maintenance.
5. People
● Database Administrators (DBA)
● Database Designers
● Application Developers
● End Users
√ Naïve users
√ Sophisticated users