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3.4.4 Access Path
Mandatory.
Specify the method to be used to maintain the IBM i database access path associated with this index.
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An access path exists for every index created. Every time a record in the table is added, deleted or updated the operating system must update all the access paths to this table. To do this it must use up part of the computer's time and available processing cycles. This of course degrades the performance of the system. The more access paths that are being maintained, the slower the system will run.
Default=Immediate.
Rules
Allowable values are:
IMMED | The access path should be maintained immediately (i.e. whenever a record is added, updated or deleted from the table). This option is the most common. If the index is to be used in an interactive environment then IMMED should always be used. |
DELAY | The access path should only be maintained when the index is used. This type of access path lies dormant and is not maintained by the operating system until such time as someone needs to use the index. Thus it places no burden on the operating system until it is actually required. Typically, indexes views that use this option are only used very infrequently to "sort" a table into a specific order. |
Platform Considerations
- IBM i: This table attribute applies to IBM i databases only.
Tips & Techniques
- If the index is to be used in an interactive environment, then this option should be selected.
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