Beginning databases with PostgreSQL : from novice to professional ; [effectively manage and develop data-driven applications with the powerful PostgreSQL database server ; covers version 8

PostgreSQL is one of the world's most popular Open Source relational database systems. It is renowned for its wide range of capabilities, and its ability to perform functions not available in other databases. The forthcoming release of PostgreSQL 8.0 in late 2004/early 2005 will include major revisions, such as Win32 Native Support, and this book will provide the tools for anyone making the transition or learning about PostgreSQL for the first time.This book introduces readers to many of the most prominent features, simultaneously introducing key relational database design and management principles that will help the novice reader effectively manage their data-driven application.Over 150 pages of coverage is devoted to the most popular PostgreSQL APIs, including PHP, Perl, Java and C. Users of all levels will appreciate the 50 pages of condensed reference material covering PostgreSQL data types, syntax, the psql client, and large object support.

PostgreSQL is arguably the most powerful open-source relational database system. It has grown from academic research beginnings into a functionally-rich, standards-compliant, and enterprise-ready database used by organizations all over the world. And it’s completely free to use.

Beginning Databases with PostgreSQL offers readers a thorough overview of database basics, starting with an explanation of why you might need to use a database, and following with a summary of what different database types have to offer when compared to alternatives like spreadsheets. You’ll also learn all about relational database design topics such as the SQL query language, and introduce core principles including normalization and referential integrity.

The book continues with a complete tutorial on PostgreSQL features and functions and include information on database construction and administration. Key features such as transactions, stored procedures and triggers are covered, along with many of the capabilities new to version 8. To help you get started quickly, step-by-step instructions on installing PostgreSQL on Windows and Linux/UNIX systems are included.

In the remainder of the book, we show you how to make the most of PostgreSQL features in your own applications using a wide range of programming languages, including C, Perl, PHP, Java and C#. Many example programs are presented in the book, and all are available for download from the Apress web site.

By the end of the book you will be able to install, use, and effectively manage a PostgreSQL server, design and implement a database, and create and deploy your own database applications.

Beginning Databases with PostgreSQL: From Novice to Professional, Second Edition 1 Table of Content 6 Chapter 1 Introduction to PostgreSQL 26 Chapter 2 Relational Database Principles 42 Chapter 3 Getting Started with PostgreSQL 68 Chapter 4 Accessing Your Data 98 Chapter 5 PostgreSQL Command-Line and Graphical Tools 138 Chapter 6 Data Interfacing 174 Chapter 7 Advanced Data Selection 198 Chapter 8 Data Definition and Manipulation 226 Chapter 9 Transactions and Locking 268 Chapter 10 Functions, Stored Procedures, and Triggers 292 Chapter 11 PostgreSQL Administration 334 Chapter 12 Database Design 382 Chapter 13 Accessing PostgreSQL from C Using libpq 410 Chapter 14 Accessing PostgreSQL from C Using Embedded SQL 444 Chapter 15 Accessing PostgreSQL from PHP 470 Chapter 16 Accessing PostgreSQL from Perl 490 Chapter 17 Accessing PostgreSQL from Java 516 Chapter 18 Accessing PostgreSQL from C# 542 Appendix A PostgreSQL Database Limits 568 Appendix B PostgreSQL Data Types 570 Appendix C PostgreSQL SQL Syntax Reference 576 Appendix D psql Reference 598 Appendix E Database Schema and Tables 602 Appendix F Large Objects Support in PostgreSQL 606 Index 614 This comprehensive reference will help programmers transition into PostgreSQL for the first time, while learning about key relational database design and management principles simultaneously, to help effectively manage a data-driven application--also includes extensive coverage of the most popular PostgreSQL APIs, and introduces the product's most prominent features, including PHP, Perl, Java, and C. Original. (Advanced) *The most updated PostgreSQL book on the market, covering version 8.0 *Highlights the most popular PostgreSQL APIs, including C, Perl, PHP, and Java *This is two books in one; it simultaneously covers key relational database design principles, while teaching PostgreSQL