Database
From Unofficial BOINC Wiki
[edit] General
A Database is an organized collection of information, with the organization falling into three main categories:
- Flat file
- This is a simple organized list like your shopping list, spreadsheet, etc. It is two dimensional and the organization is mostly about what item comes first in the list, followed by what next item.
- Relational Database
- A Relational Database is a database structured around entities (something that you want to know something about) and the attributes that you want to store about the entity, and the relationships between those entities. Simple example: a person, is an entity that has attributes. You have a name, height, weight, etc. and all of these data values can be stored. The person's spouse is also a person, and they will likely have the same attributes, but different values for those attributes. And the two of you have a relationship (well, and I hope it is a good one, but I digress) that can also be stored.
- Object Database
- A new kid on the block and it "may" be able to, someday, replace Relational Databases. Their internal organization is based on objects. In fact, the only difference between an Object Database and a Relational Database is the manner in which they encapsulate the data and structure the relationships between those items that have been encapsulated. In many instances an Object Database can be a better "fit" to the problem space and thereby give improved performance. The only fly in the ointment is that the Relational Database companies are making object capabilities available. We shall see if they "grow together" or not. Time will tell.
[edit] Database Use In the BOINC System
The BOINC System uses a Database in at least two levels of the system. At the first level there is the BOINC Database. This is the On-Line Database and it contains the information about the Participants, Participant's Computers, Teams, Results, Work Units, and more.
There is a second level Database and that is the one where the resulting science information is stored after the Results have been returned by the Participant and have passed Validation. This Database is sometimes known as the Science Database or Master Science Database.
