Oracle8 and Unix Performance Tuning

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 315 pages
• Published by: Prentice Hall PTR; Pap/Cdr edition July 1998
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 013907676X
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0139076763
• Book Dimensions: 9.3 x 7.1 x 1 inches
• Weighs: 1.6 pounds

Product Review
The goal of this book is to optimize performance on higher-end Unix servers that are running Oracle version 7 or 8. First, the book discusses the issues that affect Unix performance, offering detailed support for several popular flavors of Unix, including Solaris 2.6 and HP/UX (Hewlett-Packard Unix) 11. After a soup-to-nuts tour of the architecture of Unix, the guide moves on to issues of tuning performance in memory and processors. Obviously, optimizing disk performance is a critical area for speeding up databases, so Oracle8 and Unix Performance Tuning covers a number of related issues (such as configuring striped volumes, mirroring, and RAID [Redundant Array of Inexpensive Discs] technologies). This section also presents tips for optimizing a variety of disk options.

The next sections of the book examine how to tune Oracle. Here, the author, who works for Oracle Corp., shares his expertise in getting the most out of Oracle, including how to maximize performance in new object-relational databases. Two short but useful appendices round out the text, providing checklists for optimal installations of Unix and Oracle. --Richard Dragan

Book Info
Covers virtually every relevant optimization technique in Oracle8, Oracle7, and 3 leading versions of UNIX: Solaris 2.6, HP-UX 11, and Sequent Dynix/ptx 4.4, presenting in-depth coverage of both OLTP & DSS applications, covering optimization of the UNIX kernel, memory, processor processors & I/O. Paper. CD-ROM included. DLC: Oracle (Computer file).

Reader Reviews
Mr. Alomari managed to accomplish an extraordinary feat: presenting Oracle tuning in a concise, yet not superficial way. There are many originally undocumented (or poorly documented) features which are invaluable. A few topics, however, miss some explanation. But, all things considered, it is an excellent book. He addresses many issues that are really hard to find, especially on the interaction between UNIX and Oracle. When he says you cannot fix half of you car's engine, he is not exaggerating. In my consulting practice, I tend to see both many Oracle and many UNIX experts, but much work is poorly done because of this fragile knowledge by the two parties. This book may be an efficient tool for breaking that wall, and, believe me, it makes the difference. I only wonder why he did not cover other UNIXes like AIX and DIGITAL, which have a big market share... Comment | | (Report this)