All,

Here are new DB2 related topics over the past month or so.  OK ... so it's probably been a bit longer than a month, so this submission is a bit longer than some others.  Good stuff, nonetheless.

Hopefully, I'll see many of you at the 5/25 SWARUG meeting.  I'll be delivering an overview of DB2 Viper!

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Redbook:  SAP Solutions on IBM DB2 UDB V8.2.2 Handbook
(http://www.redbooks.ibm.com/abstracts/sg246765.html)

IBM and SAP share a vision for responding to customers' specific requirements for tighter integration, platform flexibility, lower total cost of ownership, and improved performance. DB2 UDB V8.2.2 is an SAP-optimized version that uses autonomic computing technologies specifically tuned to help SAP users streamline installation, improve performance, and increase availability.

This IBM Redbook provides information for SAP consultants and SAP system administrators. It includes the latest DB2 UDB architecture details, SAP-related features and functions, practical advice on SAP NetWeaver 2004 installations, and DB2 configuration in SAP environments.

We describe DB2 UDB’s logical and physical database objects, storage management, SAPs data classes, and space reclamation strategies, and provide the best practices for intelligent storage subsystems.

We also discuss how to use DBA Cockpit to monitor your system, DB2 UDB log file management, database backup and recovery, and high availability and clustered solutions. We introduce the Problem Description / Problem Source Identification (PD/PSI) methodology, and the troubleshooting approaches for common problems. Finally, we include a discussion of the new features of SAP NetWeaver 2004s Business Intelligence (SAP BI) with DB2 UDB V8.2.2.

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Redbook:  Dimensional Modeling: In a Business Intelligence Environment
(http://www.redbooks.ibm.com/abstracts/sg247138.html)

In this IBM Redbook we describe and demonstrate dimensional data modeling techniques and technology, specifically focused on business intelligence and data warehousing. It is to help the reader understand how to design, maintain, and use a dimensional model for data warehousing that can provide the data access and performance required for business intelligence.

Business intelligence is comprised of a data warehousing infrastructure, and a query, analysis, and reporting environment. Here we focus on the data warehousing infrastructure. But only a specific element of it, the data model - which we consider the base building block of the data warehouse. Or, more precisely, the topic of data modeling and its impact on the business and business applications. The objective is not to provide a treatise on dimensional modeling techniques, but to focus at a more practical level.

There is technical content for designing and maintaining such an environment, but also business content.

For example, we use case studies to demonstrate how dimensional modeling can impact the business intelligence requirements for your business initiatives. In addition, we provide a detailed discussion on the query aspects of BI and data modeling. For example, we discuss query optimization and how you can determine performance of the data model prior to implementation. You need a solid base for your data warehousing infrastructure . . . . a solid data model.

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Redbook:  DB2 Performance Expert for Multiplatforms V2.2
(http://www.redbooks.ibm.com/abstracts/sg246470.html)

DB2 Performance Expert (PE) for Multiplatforms V2.2 is a workstation-based performance analysis and tuning tool for managing a heterogeneous mix of DB2 systems with a single end-user interface. DB2 PE simplifies DB2 performance management by providing you with the ability to monitor applications, system statistics, and system parameters using a single tool.

This IBM Redbook provides an overview of the architecture of DB2 Performance Expert. We highlight key considerations in planning DB2 PE V2.2 for your environment and provide a step-by-step installation and configuration guide

We discuss, in detail, the DB2 PE V2.2 functions and features. Recommendations and tips for DB2 performance tuning are also introduced.

Finally, we discuss some of the commonly encountered problems faced by a DBA when managing a DB2 environment, and describe how the tool can be used to diagnose and resolve these performance problems.

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Redbook:  A Deep Blue View of DB2 Performance: IBM Tivoli OMEGAMON XE for DB2 Performance Expert on z/OS
(http://www.redbooks.ibm.com/abstracts/sg247224.html)

IBM Tivoli OMEGAMON XE for DB2 Performance Expert on z/OS represents the effort on converging OMEGAMON XE for DB2 and DB2 Performance Expert into one product that retains the best features of each. This new tool gives you a single, comprehensive tool to help assess the efficiency of and optimize performance from your DB2 Universal Database in the z/OS environment. It automates the analysis of your database performance in real time and also adds expert database analysis functions to help you maximize performance and enhance productivity.  The main functions of this tool allow you to:

- Monitor, analyze, and tune the performance of IBM DB2 Universal Database and DB2 applications on z/OS
- Improve productivity with meaningful views of performance
- Quickly and easily identify performance bottlenecks using predefined rules of thumb
- Enjoy substantial breadth and depth in monitoring DB2 environments by combining batch-reporting capabilities with real-time monitoring and historical tracking functions
- Support an enterprise-wide integrated systems management strategy activated by the IBM Tivoli OMEGAMON XE family
- Store performance data and analysis tools in a performance warehouse

The software combines the sophisticated reporting, monitoring, and buffer pool analysis features of the IBM Tivoli OMEGAMON XE for DB2 Performance Monitor on z/OS and IBM DB2 Buffer Pool Analyzer products.  This IBM Redbook will help you install and understand the main functions of the product, clarify the differences, and point out the advantages if you had one of the pre-existing products already in use.

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White Paper:  Why data serving on a mainframe
(http://www.ibm.com/systems/z/feature012406/whitepaper.html)

For over four decades the IBM mainframe has been a leader in data and transaction serving. To help you meet today’s challenging business requirements, the System z9 platform can help you leverage these data serving capabilities to drive down risk and reduce business costs.

With the System z9 platform you can use the IBM leadership qualities to help address new business opportunities. When utilizing System z9 with DB2 and many of today’s innovative programming models, you can derive new value from the data and applications on the mainframe.

With the introduction of the zIIP, z/OS may be able to free up capacity and help you optimize resource utilization of general purpose processors by directing eligible work to this new specialty engine. With the wealth of corporate data on the mainframe, the System z9 platform can leverage open standards and advanced virtualization capabilities in other IBM products to help position it as a data hub for the enterprise. Read this new white paper that details how System z can help protect your data and assist in the reduction of risk, cost and downtime.

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White Paper:  ISV success with DB2 Viper
(http://www-128.ibm.com/developerworks/db2/library/techarticle/dm-0603ford/)

DB2 Viper has been designed to permit ISVs to focus more on application development and less on database configuration and administration. The new and enhanced development tools will make it even easier for developers to rapidly develop and deploy database applications, and the significant new autonomic capability will permit customers to focus more on deriving business value from their database and less on database administration.

In order to integrate and take full advantage of the new DB2 Viper features and enhancements into your software solution, some modifications to existing applications, routines and scripts are required. This article describes DB2 Viper product changes that are most significant to ISVs, explains how they may affect existing database application code and scripts, and provides guidance on how to plan to update your application.

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Webcast:  DB2 Chat with the Lab - DB2 Viper: Range Partitioning and Large RID Support
(http://www.ibm.com/db2/labchats)

DB2 Viper contains innovative features for delivering information on demand and scaling databases to new levels. The Table (Range) Partitioning capabilities in DB2 Viper provide a number of advantages including better query performance, improved large table manageability, and dynamic data roll-in/roll-out. The Large Row Identifier (RID) allows for creation of tables and indexes that are terabytes in size. Together these features enable the ability to create and easily manage databases with virtually unlimited capacity, and are especially beneficial in large data-warehousing environments.

Join Sal Vella, VP of DB2 Development, and Matt Huras, IBM Distinguished Engineer and lead DB2 Architect, for an in-depth look at the new Table Partitioning and Large RID support in DB2 Viper on Linux, UNIX, and Windows.

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Announcement:  IBM DB2 V9.1 for z/OS launches beta program: Realize the business value of your information with innovation that matters
(http://www.ibm.com/isource/cgi-bin/goto?it=usa_annred&on=206-098)

DB2 V9.1 for z/OS expands the value delivered to your business by IBM's industry-leading mainframe data server through innovations in key areas:

    * Business insight innovations
    * Cost savings through optimized innovations
    * Business resiliency innovations

Selected features that deliver these valuable benefits to your business include:

    * Rich new hybrid data server support for both relational and pure XML storage, with the necessary services to support both data structures
    * New data types (decimal float, BIGINT, and varbinary)
    * Native SQL procedural language
    * Improved security with roles, trusted context, and new encryption functions
    * Extensions of the V8 capabilities to make changes to the data definitions without taking your data offline
    * Enhancements to large object support and performance
    * Volume-based copy and recover
    * Refinements to the DB2 industry-leading optimization
    * QMF interface redesigned to provide on demand access to data, reports, and interactive visual solutions with optional Web browser

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Promotion:  IBM DB2 Performance Expert and DB2 Query Patroller discount promotion (expires June 27, 2006)
(http://www.ibm.com/isource/cgi-bin/goto?it=usa_annred&on=306-112)

For a limited time only, the commercial Passport Advantage® Relationship Suggested Volume Prices (RSVP) and Passport Advantage Express Suggested Retail Price (SRP) for eligible IBM DB2® Performance Expert for Multiplatforms and IBM DB2 Query Patroller have been reduced by 50%.

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Promotion:  IBM DB2 Universal Database education promotion (expires June 27, 2006)
(http://www.ibm.com/isource/cgi-bin/goto?it=usa_annred&on=306-113)

For a limited time only, if you acquire a minimum of:

    * 5 qualifying new processor licenses of DB2® UDB Enterprise Server Edition, or
    * 16 qualifying new processor licenses of DB2 UDB Workgroup Server Unlimited Edition, or
    * 32 qualifying new processor licenses of DB2 UDB Express Edition,

you can receive enrollment for two attendees at the eligible IBM Information On Demand 2006 conference Expo and reception, at 50% off the cost of registration (approximate value: $1, 695 USD).

Or, if you acquire a minimum of:

    * 10 qualifying new processor licenses of DB2 UDB Enterprise Server Edition, or
    * 40 qualifying new processor licenses of DB2 UDB Workgroup Server Unlimited Edition, or
    * 80 qualifying new processor licenses of DB2 UDB Express Edition,

you can receive

    * enrollment for two attendees at the eligible IBM Information On Demand 2006 conference Expo and reception, plus
    * two enrollments in an eligible 2-day IBM DB2 UDB for Linux™, UNIX®, and Windows™ V8.2 Transition course

at no additional charge (approximate value: $5,690 USD).

In addition, if you qualify for this promotion, you will also receive an invitation for two people to attend a 2-day "Meet the Developers" briefing in either Rome, Italy or Anaheim, California.

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blog:  An Expert's Guide to DB2 Technology - More on Compression - CPU utilization
(http://blogs.ittoolbox.com/database/technology/archives/008996.asp)

In tests just completed by Chris Eaton, where he compares compressed and non compressed tables in DB2, the results were very intriguing.  Because of high compression ratios, he found that even when he thought performance would be slower, it was not.

Take a look at Chris's blog for more details on what he found when doing some performance testing with Viper's new table compression capabilities.

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Tutorial:  Develop DB2 applications using persistence-based frameworks
(http://www-128.ibm.com/developerworks/edu/dm-dw-dm-0604balani-i.html?S_TACT=105AGX11&S_CMP=WN)

Get an overview of various persistence-based frameworks for DB2® Universal Database™ (DB2 UDB) for Linux®, UNIX®, and Windows®, including Hibernate, Java™ Data Objects (JDO), and Java DataBase Connectivity (JDBC™) 3.0. Build DB2 persistence-based applications employing the widely used Hibernate and Spring framework.

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Technical Article:  Get off to a fast start with DB2 Viper
(http://www-128.ibm.com/developerworks/db2/library/techarticle/dm-0603saracco/)

The DB2® Viper release, now in beta, features significant new support for storing, managing, and searching XML data. Master these new XML features quickly through several step-by-step articles that explain how to accomplish fundamental tasks. In this article, learn how to create database objects for managing your XML data and how to populate your DB2 database with XML data.

You've probably heard the buzz about DB2's new Viper release -- IBM's first database management system to support both tabular (SQL-based) and hierarchical (XML-based) data structures. If you're curious about DB2's new "native" support for XML and want to get off to a fast start, you've come to the right place.

To help you quickly get up to speed on DB2's native XML features, walk through several common tasks, such as:

   1. Creating database objects for managing XML data, including a test database, sample tables, and views
   2. Populating the database with XML data using INSERT and IMPORT statements
   3. Validating your XML data. Develop and register your XML schemas with DB2, and use the XMLVALIDATE option when importing data.

Future articles will cover other topics, such as querying, updating, and deleting DB2 XML data with SQL, querying DB2 XML data with XQuery, and developing Java applications and Web components that access DB2 XML data.

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Technical Article:  Query DB2 XML Data with SQL
(http://www-128.ibm.com/developerworks/db2/library/techarticle/dm-0603saracco2/)

The DB2® Viper release, now in beta, features significant new support for storing, managing, and querying XML data. In this article, learn how to query data stored in XML columns using SQL and SQL/XML. A subsequent article will illustrate how to query XML data using XQuery, a new language supported by DB2.

Although DB2's hybrid architecture represents a significant departure from previous releases, exploiting its new XML capabilities doesn't have to be a painful process. If you're already familiar with SQL, you can immediately apply your skills to working with XML data stored natively in DB2. See how in this article.

The XML features in DB2 Viper (now in beta) include new storage management, indexing, and query language support. In this article, learn how to query data in DB2 XML columns using SQL or SQL with XML extensions (SQL/XML). A future article will discuss DB2's new support for XQuery, an emerging industry standard, and explore when it can be most useful.

You may be surprised to learn that DB2 also supports bilingual queries -- that is, queries that combine expressions from both SQL and XQuery. Which language (or combination of languages) you should use depends on your application needs, as well as your skills. Combining elements of two query languages into one query isn't as tough as you may think. And doing so can offer you powerful capabilities for searching and integrating traditional SQL and XML data.

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Technical Article:  Query DB2 XML data with XQuery
(http://www-128.ibm.com/developerworks/db2/library/techarticle/dm-0604saracco/)

The IBM® DB2® Viper release, now in beta, features significant new support for storing, managing, and querying XML data. Learn how to query data stored in XML columns using XQuery.

By now, you've probably heard about DB2 Viper's new architecture, which supports both tabular and hierarchical data structures. Indeed, previous articles have summarized DB2's new XML features, described how to create database objects and populate them with XML data, and explained how to work with XML data using SQL and SQL/XML. This article continues to explore DB2 XML capabilities by focusing on its new support for XQuery.

DB2 treats XQuery as a first-class language, allowing users to write XQuery expressions directly rather than requiring that users embed or wrap XQueries in SQL statements. Furthermore, DB2's query engine processes XQueries natively, meaning that it parses, evaluates, and optimizes XQueries without ever translating them into SQL behind the scenes. Of course, if you choose to write "bilingual" queries that include both XQuery and SQL expressions, DB2 will process and optimize these queries as well.

As with SQL/XML in "Query DB2 XML Data with SQL," this article reviews several common query tasks and looks at how you can use XQuery to accomplish your goals. But first, let's briefly consider how XQuery differs from SQL.

Jay's Note:  one of the author's of this article is Don Chamberlin - an IBM Fellow and the co-inventor of SQL.  Really!!!

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Technical Article:  Leverage your PostgreSQL V8.1 skills to learn DB2, Version 8.2
(http://www-128.ibm.com/developerworks/db2/library/techarticle/dm-0603wasserman2/)

There has never been a better time to consider switching over to DB2. With the recent announcement of DB2 Universal Database™ (UDB) Express-C Edition V8.2, a fully functional, free version of DB2 for Linux®, Unix®, and Windows® platforms (32-bit and 64-bit), more and more developers will be making the switch to a proven data server with state-of-the-art technology and a growing developer community base. DB2 Express-C is based on the same core technology as the DB2 UDB Express Edition V8.2 product. As such, it supports a wide variety of programming languages to build and deploy applications, including C/C++, Java™, .NET, PHP, and more.

Learning a new product or system can sometimes be a complex and time-consuming endeavor. The goal of this article is to eliminate the steep learning curve and get database administrators (DBAs) and developers who are already familiar with PostgreSQL V8.1 up to speed with DB2's architecture and tools in little time. Get a basic understanding of the DB2 architecture and how it differs from PostgreSQL. Learn about the different tools and utilities that are available in DB2 and which ones are analogous to the ones you are already familiar with in PostgreSQL. Then explore all of the additional, easy-to-use features and tools that DB2 has to offer, and see for yourself why it is worth making the switch.

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DB2 Magazine Email Newsletter - Volume 7, Issue 3
(http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0BqV70Ai)

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IN THIS ISSUE:

1. From the Editor
  * DB2's prizewinning blogs
2. Asked and Answered
  * Reducing planned outages with DB2 data sharing
3. Poll Positions
  * Which version of DB2 are you using?
4. IBM Webcasts
  * Getting maximum value from mainframe data, SOA architectures for
    regulatory compliance
5. Skill Sets
  * No-charge certification and tutorials, book discounts, and more
6. Must Reads
  * An Introduction to IMS: Your Complete Guide to IBM's Information
    Management System
7. In the Zone
  * The latest DB2 and Informix articles from developerWorks

********************************

1. FROM THE EDITOR

*DB2's Prizewinning Blogs
In the recent IT Toolbox Community Choice Awards, readers
picked DB2 blogs written by IBMers as the top selections in two
categories. Chris Eaton's blog (An Expert's Guide to DB2 Technology)
topped the Best New Blog category, and Willie Favero (Getting the Most
out of DB2 for z/OS)dominated the Best Technical Blog category.
ITtoolbox boasts more than 157,000 subscribers and offers more than
175 blogs, so kudos to these authors on standing out from the crowd.
Both blogs made my list of the best DB2 blogs earlier this year. In
case you missed it, here's a link to a DB2 Magazine article Willie
wrote on multi-row processing in DB2 for z/OS
(http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMQA0AG
).

Obviously, there's a vibrant DB2 community out there searching for
information (they're in luck today with the collection of links and
resources in this newsletter). I hope you'll take the time to let me
know which blogs you're reading and which authors you might like to
hear from in the pages of DB2 Magazine. And while you're jotting that
note, you might want to weigh in on some of the debates playing out in
the magazine's Message Queue section
(http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMW40A8
). I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
--Weigh in on the issues that matter to you today.
mailto:Db2mag@...
--Visit the ITtoolbox Community Choice Awards page.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMP70A4
--Read Chris Eaton's blog
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMP80A5
--Read Willie Favero's blog
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EAKE0A1

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2. ASKED AND ANSWERED

* Considerations in Using Data Sharing to Reduce Planned Outages
The question: We're considering going to DB2 data sharing to reduce
planned outages. In your DB2 Magazine article, "Staying Power,"
(http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMWp0A8 )you
write that "an SQL statement executed in our data sharing group will
consume about 7.3 percent more in-DB2 CPU time than it would if it
were executed in a stand-alone DB2 for z/OS subsystem." What SMF
and/or TMON fields should I apply the 7.3 percent to in order to
estimate my increase in CPU utilization?
--Read Robert Catterall's answer
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMW50AA

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3. POLL POSITIONS

* What version are you on?
Early adopter or happy where you are? Let us know which version of DB2
is in production in your company.
--Answer the poll question.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0Bw8K0Ae

* Who's afraid of SOA?
Find out how many of your peers are already forging ahead with
service-oriented architecture explorations.
--Browse last month's poll results.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMWq0AA

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4. IBM WEBCASTS

* Get Maximum Value from Your Mainframe Data
Integrating critical mainframe information from sources such as DB2,
VSAM, IMS, CA-IDMS, CA-Datacom, and so on can be time-consuming and
expensive. This Webcast shows how leading companies are seamlessly
integrating mainframe data in real time, without unnecessary data
movement and replication, and without custom programming.
--Watch the replay.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMQC0AI

* Designing an Architecture for Regulatory Compliance with SOA
Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of making consistent
information available as a service within their service-oriented
architectures (SOAs). This Webcast provides insight into how companies
are creating consistent, reusable services around their information.
Participants will learn how to achieve corporate financial
transparency and hear from their peers.
--Watch the replay.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMQD0AJ

* Data Readiness Strategies for Growing Organizations with SAP
IBM and Capgemini provide an in-depth analysis of the "Data Factory"
approach to data readiness and ERP, developed by Capgemini and
leveraging IBM Information Integration Solutions technology. A case
study of the "Data Factory" in action highlights a global systems
integration and consolidation initiative for Schneider Electric, a
large multinational manufacturer.
--Watch the replay.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMQE0AK

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5. SKILL SETS

* Complimentary Certification at Upcoming Conferences
Anyone attending the IDUG North America conference (May 7 to 11 in
Tampa, Fla.) or the Information On Demand 2006 conference (Oct. 15 to
20 in Anaheim, Calif.) can take up to three certification exams on
site at no charge. Free tutorials are available for several
certification exams.
--Learn more about the offer or the events.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0CG3g0AG
--Find a tutorial.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0CXtP0AF

* Test Your Certification Readiness
IBM offers a series of low-cost online certification assessment exams
that assess candidates' certification readiness and identify areas in
need of additional study. The assessments are offered through
Prime/Prometric for $10 USD. The test fee applies worldwide to each
time a test is taken, even if the same test is retaken.
--Find out more about the available exams.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0CUeI0Ao

* New Redbook: E-mail Archiving and Records Management Integrated
Solution Using DB2 CommonStore and DB2 Records Manager
This book discusses the basic concepts behind e-mail archiving and
e-mail records enabling in addition to each product's role in the
integration solution.
--Download the book or learn more.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMQF0AL

* Tutorial: Solving Business Problems with IBM DB2 Intelligent Miner
This tutorial shows you how to generate explanations for business
problems by applying Intelligent Miner Modeling to corporate data and
how to display the results with Intelligent Miner Visualization.
--Find out more or download the tutorial.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0DGep0AG
IMS

* Become a Certified Solutions Expert for U2
IBM offers five U2 certification roles and exams:  Exam 710, U2
UniData V5.2 for Unix and Windows Administration; Exam 711, U2 UniData
V6.1 for Unix and Windows Administration; Exam 712, IBM Certified
Solutions Expert-U2 UniVerse V9.6 Administrator; Exam 713, U2 Family
Application Development; and Exam 714, U2 UniVerse V10.1 for Unix and
Windows Administration.
--Learn more about the exams and preparation resources.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0DiUG0Ar
All IM

* New Redbook: IBM DB2 Recovery Expert for Multiplatforms V2 Usage
Guide
This IBM Redbook shows you how to install and implement DB Recovery
Expert and its Fast Backup and Grouper components and explains,
through detailed examples, point-in-time recovery and cloning of
tables, table spaces, databases, and more.
--Find out more or download the Redbook.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMQG0AM

* Save on Select DB2 Books
For a limited time, IBM is offering a 40 percent discount plus free US
shipping on three DB2 books: DB2 for z/OS Version 8 DBA Certification
Guide; DB2 SQL PL: Essential Guide for DB2 UDB on Linux, Unix, and
Windows, i5/OS, and z/OS, 2nd Edition; The Official Introduction to
DB2 for z/OS, 2nd Edition. Enter case-sensitive coupon code: IBMDB2
during checkout.
--Find out more about the discounts.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0CQZq0AF

********************************

6. MUST READS

* An Introduction to IMS: Your Complete Guide to IBM's Information
Management System
This recently released book is the only guide to IMS Version 9.
Straight from IBM IMS experts, the book covers key IMS functions from
security to Java support for both new and experienced IMS
administrators, programmers, architects, and managers. It's required
reading for IBM IMS Mastery Certification Program.
--Order the book or learn more.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMQH0AN

********************************

7. IN THE ZONE

* Kick-Start Your Java Apps: Free software, fast development
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMQI0AO

* Google Maps API, DB2/Informix, and PHP on Linux
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMQJ0AP

* Fast Start With DB2 Viper
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/eu3r0FhO7y0FLd0EMQK0AQ

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DB2 Magazine Email Newsletter - Volume 7, Issue 4
(http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0BqV70AY)

********************************

IN THIS ISSUE:

1. From the Editor
  * How to get your hands on DB2 Viper
2. Poll Positions
  * Are you using DB2 for iSeries?
3. Seminars and Webcasts
  * Learn about integration, MDM, and SOA
4. Must Reads
  * SQL for Smarties: Advanced SQL Programming
5. Skill Sets
  * New certification articles and catalogs, plus
    Chat with the Lab and more
6. In the Zone
  * The latest DB2 and Informix articles from developerWorks

********************************

1. FROM THE EDITOR

* How to Get Your Hands on DB2 Viper
News about DB2 "Viper," IBM's hybrid XML-relational data server, has
been circulating for months. Now, you can find out what all the talk
is about. Last week, IBM opened a test-drive program that puts Viper
in the hands of interested parties. (An earlier beta test period was
open to partners and a handful of customers.) DB2 Viper is the first
data server to offer "pure" XML storage alongside relational data.
Pure XML means it hasn't been shredded, decomposed, or turned into a
character or binary large object, so access (available via SQL or
XQuery) is more flexible and efficient. Viper offers more than the XML
capability, though. Many data warehouse shops are looking forward to
new range partitioning and data compression functions, and
anyone interested in securing data will want to take a look at the new
Label Based Access Control. DB2 Magazine covered the XML capabilities
last year. In just a few weeks, the Quarter 2 issue will be live with
an overview of features included in the test-drive version and
first-hand accountsfrom partners who participated in the earlier beta.
Here are links to the test drive program and the DB2 Magazine article.
--Find out about the DB2 Viper test-drive.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoF0Aj
--Read "Firing Up the Hybrid Engine."
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoG0Ak
--Browse the Gartner study.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoH0Al

********************************

2. POLL POSITIONS

* More on DB2 for iSeries?
Several readers have written to DB2 Magazine requesting more coverage
of DB2 for iSeries. Help us learn more about the DB2 for iSeries
readership by answering a simple question online.
--Sound off in the DB2 Magazine poll.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0Bw8K0AU

* Where Do You Stand?
When it comes to DB2 releases, are you ahead of the curve or at the
back of the pack? Find which versions your peers are using.
--Browse last month's poll results.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EMWq0Ay

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3. SEMINARS AND WEBCASTS

* On Demand Webcast: Successfully Integrating Master Data
Organizations can mitigate risk, collapse time to value, increase
productivity and recognize higher quality deliverables by leveraging a
complete information integration platform with methodology,
accelerators, and a full range of implementation services from IBM and
its partners. Learn from IBM Business Consulting Services' Dick
Hoffman and Information Management's Robert Rich how master data
management can deliver a unified accurate view of core business data.
--Watch the Webcast.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoL0Ap

* Webcast: SOA -- Ensuring a Competitive Advantage through
Infrastructure Interoperability
To ensure competitive advantage, companies must enable processes
to interconnect easily in a flexible infrastructure based on business
needs, making SOA an ideal approach. If properly managed and secured,
it can provide the reliability and interoperability that is crucial to
the open ended data flow necessary to succeed in this
technology-driven economy. To fully benefit from SOA, companies need
to employ the right metrics and be consistent in their use. A new
Webcast compares SOA with other IT approaches and explains how SOA
adds value and
affects ROI.
--View the Webcast.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoM0Aq

********************************

4. MUST READS

* SQL for Smarties: Advanced SQL Programming, Third Edition
By Joe Celko
The third edition of this popular book by SQL guru Joe Celko features
new examples, and updates to SQL-99, expanded sections covering query
techniques, and a new section on schema design. The advanced
programming techniques covered can be used with any RDBMS in any SQL
environment. War stories shed light on real-world programming
challenges and their solutions.
--Find out more about SQL for Smarties.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0Bk8y0A3

********************************

5. SKILL SETS

* Information on Demand Blogs
IBM launched a new series of dynamic, interactive blogs dedicated
to Information On Demand topics. Bloggers include IBM executives Jon
Prial, Anant Jhingran, Andrew Warzecha, Bob Picciano, and others. The
blogs feature lively and far-ranging discussions on the power and
value of information.
--Join the conversation.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoN0Ar

* IBM Spring 2006 Training e-Catalog
IBM is offering a Web-based, interactive catalog for training in the
United States. The catalog features new or updated courses in 26
curriculum areas, plus information about discounts and other offers.
--Download the catalog.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoO0As

* Chat with the Lab: Information Warehousing with DB2 Viper
The first Business Intelligence Best Practices Chat with the Lab,
which took place March 14, offered a preview of DB2 Viper technology
and what it will mean to the information warehousing/business
intelligence community. A replay of the chat, hosted by IBM's George
Baklarz, is available for download.
--Hear the replay.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0C8T30AW

* DB2 Certification in a Nutshell , Skills Availability
A new article, written by DB2 Magazine Skills Zone columnist Howard
Fosdick, explains everything about the DB2 certification process,
including IBM's certification road map, what to study, and where to
find free resources to support certification efforts. Fosdick also
updated his "Database Skills Availability: Critical to your Selection
of Database" whitepaper, which examines issues such as open source,
autonomic computing, and an increasing demand for database skills.
--Read the certification article.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoP0At
--Read the skills availability article.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoQ0Au

*Information Management Certification Newsletter
The second edition of the Information Management Professional
Certification Newsletter is now available. This newsletter, developed
for IBM Certified Professionals who have earned one or more
certification credentials, provides certification news, events, and
preparation materials and resources.
--Read the certification newsletter.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0DnS60AT

*International Discounts on Information Management Books
If you live outside the United States and want to save on book
shipping costs, click on the International tab in IBM's Information
Management Bookstore. There you'll find links to international book
sites where you may be able to minimize shipping costs. The
Information Management Bookstore also offers information on titles
translated into German, Russian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese and more.
--Browse the Information Management Bookstore.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoR0Av

* New Redbook: Dimensional Modeling In a BI Environment
This new IBM Redbook describes and demonstrates dimensional data
modeling techniques and technology for business intelligence and data
warehousing. The book helps readers understand how to design,
maintain, and use a dimensional model for data warehousing that can
provide the data access and performance required for business
intelligence.
--Download the Redbook.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoS0Aw

*New Content and Document Management Redbook Drafts
Draft versions of two content and document management Redbooks are now
available. The Content Manager Implementation and Migration Cookbook
highlights the basic concepts needed to design and implement a Content
Manager solution, including data modeling, workflow, text indexing and
search, application development, query language, security, and so on.
The Document Manager with Records Manager Solution Guide draft
provides a general solution guide for Document Manager integrated with
Records Manager. The Redbook helps readers plan and design, install,
configure, and implement a solution
--Download the content management Redbook.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoT0Ax
--Download the document management Redbook.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoU0Ay

********************************

6. IN THE ZONE

* Querying DB2 XML data with XQuery
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoV0Az

* Develop DB2 applications using persistence-based frameworks
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoW0A1

* ISV success with DB2 Viper
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoX0A2

* Enable "cdr check" functionality within IBM Informix Dynamic Server
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoY0A3

* IBM DB2 Content Manager for iSeries, Part 7: Understanding the APIs
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoZ0A4

* IBM DB2 Content Manager for iSeries, Part 8: Performance tuning
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQoa0AC

* Update: DB-Access Utility for Windows allows connectivity to IDS
Version 9.40.xC2
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/evg30FhO7y0FLd0EQob0AD

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DB2 Magazine Email Newsletter - Volume 7, Issue 5
(http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EJwI0Al)

*******************************

IN THIS ISSUE:

1. From the Editor
  * DB2 Magazine Quarter 2 issue now online
2. Poll Positions
  * Are you concerned about managing master data?
3. IBM News
  * New data compression in DB2 Viper
  * IBM and SAP expand DB2 integration
4. Asked and Answered
  * How to reduce the impact of DDF enclave CPU activity
5. Skills Set
  * Certification information, discounts, blogs, tutorials and more
6. In the Zone
  * The latest DB2 and Informix articles from developerWorks

*******************************

1. FROM THE EDITOR
I spent a couple of days at the IDUG North America Conference in
Tampa, Fla. this week, and thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many readers
(and authors) in person. Conferences make possible the kind of idea
exchange that still happens best face-to-face, whether it's hanging
around the water cooler at break time, lingering in the back of a
classroom, or having a late night meeting in, say, the sports bar in
the hotel lobby. Another opportunity for these kinds of spirited
exchanges is coming up this October, at the IBM Information On Demand
2006 Global Conference in Anaheim, Calif. (home of Disneyland). That
assembly combines the technical topics near and dear to DB2 Magazine
readers with business-level information that developers and DBAs are
increasingly expected to understand. In fact, it looks to be a place
where business and IT folks can get a glimpse into each other's
worlds. You can find out more about the conference here at
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKK0AH .

Of course, conferences are also a place to keep up with the changing
technology behind information management. And so is the Quarter 2
issue of DB2 Magazine, which is now online. Here's a selection of the
articles. Take a moment to let me know what you think
(mailto:db2mag@...). --Kim Moutsos

--Out of Many, One. Panasonic and Bell Canada Enterprises took control
of their vital information with targeted master data management
solutions. Today, they have a single system of record, without forcing
a centralized repository on diverse divisions.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKL0AI

--The Rubber Meets the Road. How will DB2 Viper's hybrid
XML-relational data server work in the real world? Customers and
partners are kicking the tires, revving the engine, and testing
performance and handling. Here's what to look for when you take it out
for a spin.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKM0AJ

--High Design. In the face of soaring business pressures, DBAs are
moving up from simple administrators to become architects of
information-based innovation.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKN0AK

--Birds of a Feather. IBM's WebSphere Information Server (code-named
Hawk) unites the products formerly known as Ascential into a unified
offering with a common metadata store.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKO0AL

*******************************

2. POLL POSITIONS

* Does your company have a master data management strategy in place?
Answer the DB2 Magazine instant poll--and see how your peers
respond.
--Participate in the poll.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0Bw8K0AS

* Serious about iSeries
Last month, we asked readers to help us find out just how many of you
would like to hear more about DB2 for iSeries.
--See the iSeries results.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EMWq0Aw


*******************************

3. IBM NEWS

* DB2 Viper Data Compression
IBM announced that DB2 "Viper," the code name for the next release of
DB2, will feature breakthrough storage compression technology
(code-named Venom). Early Viper users report that Venom has reduced
their storage needs by up to 70 percent. Venom is a mainframe-like
storage compression capability that allows DBAs to use row compression
and provides a dictionary-based approach for compressing data objects.
--Learn more about Venom.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EUED0A2

* IBM and SAP Expand DB2/SAP Integration
IBM and SAP have been partners in delivering solutions to the market
for over 30 years. In 2005 IBM and SAP announced DB2 Version 8.2.2,
the first version of DB2 specifically optimized for SAP.  DB2 V8.2.2
became the first database to deliver enhanced interoperability for the
SAP environment.  Building on that momentum, IBM and SAP will again
release new enhancements to DB2. DB2 "Viper" takes a major step toward
the goal of an invisible database, delivering unlimited scalability
with minimal administration and configuration requirements.
--Learn about DB2 Viper features optimized for SAP.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKR0AO

*******************************

4. ASKED AND ANSWERED

* Q. We're implementing a Web services-based application that uses the
Distributed Data Facility (DDF). Initial monitoring analysis shows
very high CPU enclave consumption, which limits the number of users we
can support without degrading the performance of other critical online
applications. IBM recommended caching dynamic SQL statements, but that
approach didn't provide enough relief to support the number of users
required. What else can we try to reduce the impact of DDF enclave CPU
activity?
--Read Robert Catterall's answer.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKS0AP

*******************************

5. SKILLS SET

* DB2 Content Manager V8.3 Certification Exam
The new IBM Certified Solution Designer for DB2 Content Manager V8.3
exam is now available. Preparation resources and test objectives and
requirements are available online.
--Find out more.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0CUeG0Aa

* Certification Study Guide Discounts
This collection of certification books is now available at $58 off the
regular list price. DB2 expert Roger Sanders, one of the test
developers, provides meaningful sample questions and covers all the
material you need to pass version 8 certification exams 700, 701, 703,
and 706.
--Take advantage of the discount.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0CDrp0AD

* Blog: Information Management Skills Planning & Development
Blogging is about sharing expertise, knowledge, and ideas. It's about
learning what others are thinking and exchanging ideas with
like-minded people. Find out what's on the mind of the skills planning
and development team in this blog from IBM certification and book
publishing guru Susan Visser.
--Read Susan's blog.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVTE0AK

* Tutorial: Replicate Data In the Fast Lane
Learn how to set up a straightforward Q replication scenario: one-way
or unidirectional replication between two remote databases. Find out
how to create and use WebSphere MQ queue managers, message queues, and
channels that provide the transport layer for replication.
--Download the tutorial.
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKT0AQ

*******************************

6. IN THE ZONE

* Tutorial: Label-Based Access Control, A New Approach to Security in
DB2 Viper
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKU0AR

* Tutorial: Integrate DB2 Express-C Into Service-Oriented Applications
Using Activegrid Lamp Studio
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKV0AS

* Develop Java Applications for DB2 XML Data
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKW0AT

* Use Microsoft Access to Interact With Your DB2 Data
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKX0AU

* DB2 Data Warehouse Edition V9.1 Information Roadmap for
Administrators
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKY0AV

* Chat with the Lab: Range Partitioning and Large RID support
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKZ0AW

* DB2 Viper Forum
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKa0Ad

* Kick-Start Your Java Apps: Free Software, Fast Development
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKb0Ae

* Webcast: Enabling XML and SOA Applications with DB2 Viper
http://news.db2mag.com/cgi-bin4/DM/y/ewNI0FhO7y0FLd0EVKc0Af

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jay Allen (ja@...)
Consulting Software IT Specialist
IBM Data Management Solutions
(602) 217-2937 - Phone
(602) 217-2937 - Fax