SQL for eServer i5 and iSeries (Paperback)

~ Kevin Forsythe (Author) "SQL is a common database language available on most if not all major computing platforms..." (more)
Key Phrases: binder script, temporary table object, using parameter markers, Visual Explain, Item Master File, Cancel Help Figure (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

In this book, you will learn about Structured Query Language (SQL), but with an IBM eServer i5/iSeries twist. The future seems clear on this point: SQL is the direction of the future for IBM's Universal Database. While it is true that the majority of existing databases on the i5 and iSeries were created with DDS, it's still undeniable that DDS will slowly fade from use, much like the RPG program cycle.

With a practical "how-to" style, SQL for eServer i5 and iSeries first introduces you to the basics essential for any developer to build a solid foundation. Then the book examines--in detail--the many ways in which SQL functions on the iSeries. All possible environments are explored: the traditional 5250 green-screen applications, the SQL scripting tool within iSeries Navigator, and the methods of accessing iSeries databases from within Visual Basic.

Learn through real-life examples of using SQL to interact with DB2 databases. You'll learn the ins and outs of sub-selects, joins, unions, and views, as well as tips and techniques for interacting with legacy applications, and so much more. Though intended for programmers already familiar with SQL, beginners will appreciate the book's handy tutorial Appendix to get started with SQL basics.

After reading this book, you'll see that the i5/iSeries platform is far more than the green-screen application server it's often perceived as and that it is indeed one of the finest systems available for use as a business server today. Make your database access cutting-edge with SQL for eServer i5 and iSeries.

In this book you will learn to:
- Incorporate SQL into existing iSeries business and client-side applications
- Embed SQL within RPG programs, merging the flexibility of SQL with the power of RPG
- Implement referential constraints, primary and unique key indexes, and check constraints
- Journal physical files, and find out why this task is so important
- Extend your database with user-defined functions and procedures
- Use new GUI development tools for running, debugging, and tuning SQL statements

About the Author

Kevin Forsythe has over 19 years of experience on the iSeries and other platforms as programmer, analyst, consultant, and instructor. He blends a wide range of experiences with a passion for teaching and is the author of numerous articles. Kevin has developed AS/Credentials Courses for Interactive SQL and Embedded SQL. He is a frequent and award-winning speaker at COMMON conferences and other iSeries user conferences.

Product Details

• Paperback: 350 pages
• Publisher: Mc Press; Revised edition (September 1, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1583470484
• ISBN-13: 978-1583470480
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 7.1 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #296,638 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Covers the i5/iSeries Dialects of SQL, November 15, 2004

By	John Matlock "Gunny" (Winnemucca, NV) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This book has two aspects. Basically it's on the SQL programming language (Yes, Martha, it's a language).

On the one hand it is aimed at the IBM i5/iSeries developers the tools they need to effectively use SQL in their applications.

On the other hand it is equally aimed at the experienced SQL programmer that is now moving to the i5/iSeries who needs to know the particular twists and kinks in the implementation as well as the tools available on the system to support development.

It's clear the future of data base interaction lies in SQL. It's also clear that without a book on the specific dialect of SQL spoken by the particular version you are running you can't write effective code. The structure of each data base engine is just a bit different. I don't believe that any of them meet the full standard.

This is a novice to Intermediate level book. It starts with the simple SELECT statement and goes through JOINS, UNIONS, Sub-Selects, enough that the user can probably do what he wants. The book spends a good bit of time on converting from the older DDS/RPG based software.

This book is an excellent start. It's hand's on enough to make sense, detailed enough to get you through the first through months of work before you're ready to tie into the details of advanced SQL -- Let alone the always coming next version.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Sql for eServer i5 and iSeries, December 16, 2004

By	Bill Barnes "Bill" (NC, USA) - See all my reviews

We are new to SQL and have found this book to be invaluable. Especially when added to some other books we have. Kevin has gone out of his way to answer questions and help. This is a must have book for any iSeries Shop that is using SQL and Embedded SQL.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Must have book for the innovative programmer, November 22, 2004

By	Marlene Forsythe (Oklahoma) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Any programmer can copy and modify code to make a workable program. The real programmer creates code to meet the needs of the project. In order to stand out in todays world, it is absolutely essential that every available tool be brought to bear in order to hone the skills of the programmer. This book is written to help every level of programmer to use SQL in order to take full advantage of todays Systems and todays and tomorrows data needs. Kevin writes in an easy to read and understand style so even the novice programmer can find it useful. He also provides plenty of technical information to expand the edge of the programmer who already knows everything and doesn't usually use references. This book is a must have for the programmer working in this environment.