A quasi-distributed architecture for database management systems

ABSTRACT

This paper describes a new architecture for database management systems. This quasi-distributed architecture is a compromise between the traditional centralized architecture and the more recent distributed architecture. As such it provides benefits over both architectures but also has limitations when compared with them. The quasi-distributed architecture is made possible from recent advances in computer technology: it uses economical workstations to place more of the processing at remote sites, and it uses the increased storage capacity of CD-ROMs, WORMs and hard disks to store more data closer to where it will be used. The paper gives an overview of the quasi-distributed architecture and discusses its advantages, disadvantages, and limitations. Although it is not a general purpose architecture, it is suitable for certain situations.

REFERENCES

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• 3: Laura Buddine , Elizabeth Young, Brady Guide to CD-ROM, Prentice Hall Professional Technical Reference, 1987
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• 6: Stewart, Hoyt, IBM, private communication, 1988.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.2 DATABASE MANAGEMENT
      H.2.1 Logical Design
          Subjects: Data models

Additional Classification:
  B. Hardware
  B.3 MEMORY STRUCTURES
      B.3.2 Design Styles
          Subjects: Mass storage (e.g., magnetic, optical, RAID)

  H. Information Systems
  H.2 DATABASE MANAGEMENT
      H.2.4 Systems
          Subjects: Distributed databases

General Terms:
Design