Introduction

Oracle9i is the major relational database management system (RDBMS) for developing and running a wide variety of applications, starting from creating and maintaining simple databases in client/server environments to conducting e-business on the Web. PL/SQL is the primary procedural component of Oracle9i's server-side programming and is regarded as the primary language for developing applications on the database and middle tiers using Oracle9i. PL/SQL in Releases 1 and 2 of Oracle9i has incorporated new features that take programmers to a higher level of coding, especially with its true object-relational capabilities. Also, Oracle9i provides for support of Java in the database, and PL/SQL 9i provides this capability by means of Java stored procedures and their new functionality in 9i, to build highly scalable applications.

What This Book Covers

This book covers the techniques of using PL/SQL in Oracle9i Releases 1 and 2 for server-side applications. It covers PL/SQL 9i in exhaustive detail and provides the methodology for implementing robust applications of exceptional quality. This book will assist programmers in implementing techniques that are effective for real-world and code-centric Oracle applications. This saves time and effort on the part of the PL/SQL developer in addition to increasing his or her level to that of an advanced developer. Also, PL/SQL is widely used by many organizations, and the combination of Oracle9i and PL/SQL provides a robust and effective environment for development of mission-critical applications. This book is a source for development of such applications by companies incorporating these technologies as well as those organizations migrating from earlier versions.