Basic concepts of databases

Database

A database is

a set of

structured and not redundant

information

, whose organization is based on a data model. It consists of files, records (electronic cards) and fields. Redundancy means repetition. Different data models are discussed later. Synonyms for databases: registers, search tools, electronic card files, electronic collections.

File

A file (e.g. a table) consists of records. A file also contains the layout designed for these records.

Record (Row)

A record is a collection of information kept about one person, product or transaction.

Field (Column)

Within each record information is entered into a field which represents a category of information.

Table

A table is a database object for storing data. Each table contains information about a particular subject, such as customers. A table consists of records and fields. So, it´s a file.

Form

A form is a database object designed primarily for data input and display. The data shown extracts from tables and queries.

Database program (Database Management System, DBMS)

A database management system is software which plays the role of interface between the users and the database. It provides all the data definition, data manipulation, and data control features the user needs to manage. A database management system and a database form together a

database system

.