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KostaK
Starting Member
16 Posts |
 Posted - 2009-11-11 : 22:27:01
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| Ok, so I've just started SQL, learning from a book called SQL made simple or something like that (the name is SQL Clearly Explained 2nd Edition by Jan. L Harrington).So here's my fear, I'm starting to read it and it's using all kinds of complicated words, I'll give you an example (and this is from basically the first chapter [it's actually the third chapter but the 1st and 2nd chapter only deal with installation of MySQL on your computer]):"The language also adds extensions to SQL to allow methods/functions/procedures to be written in SQL or to be written in anotherprogramming language such as C++ or Java and then invoked fromwithin a SQL statement. As a result, SQL becomes less "relational,"a trend decried by some relational purists."So, I'm a newcomer and I'm supposed to understand this language. Now I have to point out that I actually studied C++ when I was a kid so these things are a little familiar to me.The important point in all of this is to say that I DO NOT WANT TO READ SOMETHING AND NOT UNDERSTAND IT. So, I'm going to ask 10 Questions in 10 Minutes... and keep doing it.Also, my e-mail is kosta@kostasimporting.com.au so if anyone can find it in their heart to help me personally I will much appreciate it and in exchange... well if you ever want to import anything into Australia I can be your business contact, otherwise, let's get straight to the Questions!Question 1: Apparently there is a "relational theory argument" in the SQL community, can someone explain to me clearly what this argument means and where people stand on each side?Question 1.1: How do I get an e-mail when someone replies? (not really SQL question)Question 2: There is a "conformance level" for DBMS (these are the GUI's that you pay for right - DBMS). What does conformance level mean?Question 3: When I go to download MySQL there are a couple of different versions for Windows. I have Windows XP Professional and I am confused because there is the option to download Windows and also Windows x64. What is the difference and how do I find what type of Windows I have?Question 4: What is polymorphism in respect to programming languages? How can it be useful?Question 5: What is inheritnace in respect to programming languages? How can it be useful?- Are you out of breath yet? Ten minutes!Question 6: Do you suggest I get a book on MySQL and PHP? Especially if I will be using MySQL for my website? Is it quite simple after finishing a book on MySQL to dive into PHP and get a grip on it?Question 7: So I assume a DBMS (Database Management System right?) is a GUI that makes working with MySQL sort of like working with Dreamweaver on HTML (does that make sense). Well it makes a lot of sense to me and surely there must be a way to construct SQL databases without sitting in front of DOS Prompt. I can imagine some hardcore engineers that may find this appealing but not me. Are there any options for things like this, are they free, and are they easy to use?Question 8: Anyone have a good idea of a database I can get that I can play with and get up and running. I am tech savvy, but this is a completely new field.Question 9: Can someone explain the basis of 'mathematical set theory'** Does anyone have chat?Question 10: Apparently there is a way to provide SQL Support through an application library that can be linked to a program, I'll show you the full text: "Embedding SQL in a general-purpose programming language presentsan interesting challenge. The host languages (for example,COBOL, Ada, C, PL/1) have compilers that don't recognize SQL.The solution is to provide SQL support through an application librarythat can be linked to a program. Program source code ispassed through a precompiler that changes SQL into calls to libraryroutines. The modified source code will then be acceptable to a hostlanguage compiler.". Can someone explain to me what this means? Ok that's all for the 10 Questions for now... stay tuned for next week when I will come back with more :)RegardsPS. Feel free to answer only the questions you know and not all of them.I am learning SQL. |
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russell
Pyro-ma-ni-yak
5072 Posts |
Posted - 2009-11-11 : 22:43:46
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| First, this is a MS SQL Server forum. This is different from mySQL. You may try posting at mysql.com forums.But, here's a few answers to your questions:1. Relational Theory. This essentially means normalizing your data (and creating relationships between data sets -- tables). THAT means, no duplication of data in your tables (or at least as little as possible). Know that relational databases are only one kind of database. There are others. It's common today to mean "relational database" when we say "database" but technically it's wrong to assume that.2 and 7. No. A DBMS (you're right about what it stands for) is not the GUI. It's the engine that stores and interacts with the data. For instance, SQL Server is a DBMS, but you don't need a GUI to use it.3. you are probably running 23 but Windows XP. x64 means 64 bit. Download the 32 bit version4. This has nothing to do with understanding databases, but is important in object oriented programming. It allows objects to behave differently in different environments. From Wikapedia: "polymorphism is a programming language feature that allows values of different data types to be handled using a uniform interface. The concept of parametric polymorphism applies to both data types and functions."5. Another programming (non database) question. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inheritance_(object-oriented_programming)6. and 8. Sure why not. I'd grab a copy of SQL Server Express though.9. hahahahahahaha10. in programming, you access libraries that allow you to connect to a database. Don't worry too much about this yet. All modern languages have built in support for this |
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khtan
In (Som, Ni, Yak)
17689 Posts |
Posted - 2009-11-11 : 22:50:51
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I like the answer to Question 9 
KH[spoiler]Time is always against us[/spoiler] |
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KostaK
Starting Member
16 Posts |
Posted - 2009-11-11 : 23:08:53
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| Ok, sorry. So MS SQL. Should I use that instead? I like Microsoft, is MS SQL Free?Also how do I get an e-mail sent to me when someone replies, though I will look for this.RegardsI am learning SQL. |
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khtan
In (Som, Ni, Yak)
17689 Posts |
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tkizer
Almighty SQL Goddess
38200 Posts |
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KostaK
Starting Member
16 Posts |
Posted - 2009-11-12 : 00:22:19
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| ThanksI am learning SQL. |
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russell
Pyro-ma-ni-yak
5072 Posts |
Posted - 2009-11-12 : 01:08:06
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quote:
Originally posted by khtan
I like the answer to Question 9
KH[spoiler]Time is always against us[/spoiler]
me too lol  |
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10 Questions in 10 minutes (Beginner)