Detailed DBMS Course Topics
Orientation Class, Introduction to DBMS
A Database Management System (DBMS) is software that manages data in databases. It
allows users to define, manipulate, retrieve, and manage data efficiently. Examples include
MySQL, Oracle, and MongoDB.
Introduction to File-Based System
A file-based system stores data in separate files and lacks centralized control. Data
redundancy and inconsistency are common.
Example: Using Excel sheets for storing customer details.
Database Approach
In this approach, data is stored in databases with structured tables and relationships,
minimizing redundancy and improving data integrity.
Role in Database Environment
Roles include Database Administrator (DBA), Application Programmer, and End Users. Each
has specific responsibilities in managing and accessing data.
How to Build and Manage Database
Steps include requirements gathering, data modeling (E-R diagrams), schema definition,
populating data, querying, and maintenance.
DBMS vs File-Based System
| Feature | File-Based System | DBMS |
|--------------------|------------------|-------------------|
| Redundancy | High | Low |
| Data Sharing | Poor | Good |
| Security | Low | High |
| Backup & Recovery | Manual | Automated |
What is File-Based Approach?
The file-based approach stores data in flat files. Each application has its own files and
formats, which leads to issues like data redundancy and difficulty in sharing data.
Limitations of File-Based Approach
- Data Redundancy and Inconsistency
- Difficulty in Accessing Data
- Limited Data Sharing
- Lack of Security
- Integrity Problems
DBMS Approach
A centralized system where data is managed using DBMS software. It enables data
integration, sharing, and management with minimal redundancy.
Advantages of DBMS, Cost and Risk Factors
Advantages:
- Reduced Redundancy
- Improved Data Integrity and Security
- Better Data Sharing
- Backup and Recovery
Cost and Risks:
- High Initial Cost
- Complexity in Implementation
- Risk of System Failure
Two-Level vs Three-Level Architecture
Two-Level Architecture: Consists of external and internal levels only.
Three-Level ANSI-SPARC Architecture:
1. External Level – User views
2. Conceptual Level – Logical structure
3. Internal Level – Physical storage
External, Conceptual, Internal Levels
- External Level: End-user view of data.
- Conceptual Level: Community view with logical structure.
- Internal Level: Low-level data storage and access paths.
Disadvantages of Three-Level Architecture
- Increased Complexity
- Potential Performance Overhead
- Difficult Maintenance
Roles in Database Environment
- DBA: Database management, tuning, and backup.
- Designer: Schema and model design.
- Programmer: Develop database-related applications.
- End Users: Query and use the data.
Information System Architecture (ISA)
ISA defines the framework for managing information systems through various layers
including data, application, technology, and business layers.