SQL server for SMA data resides on SUN Ultra Sparc 60 running Solaris 2.7. SMA is running Sybase 11.5.1 at both Cambridge and Hawaii sites.
Although Sybase SQL can use either a file system or raw partitions, we opt for the raw partitions for security of data as is recommended by Sybase. The Unix partitions are owned by `sybase' (a user's account in the Unix system) and the server daemon along with all DBCC (database consistency checker) and backup scripts are executed by `sybase'. The master database (which contains all the system information) is mirrored. In case the original device for master database is damaged, SQL Server could start the mirrored device.
The backup and disaster recovery plan is two-level as follows:
Level One: User database recovery. Any database owner can retrieve a copy of their database on-line by executing an sql command within Sybase.
Level Two: System recovery. Master database can be retrieved on-line. Key system tables and data are backed up.
The incorporation of the Sybase Replication Server is scheduled for implementation next year. The dual purpose of this server is for disaster recovery and data reliability. This server will also allow us to eliminate the need for mirroring of databases with high levels of I/O.