IDMS

Integrated Database Management System

Enhanced Definition

A network model database management system from Broadcom (formerly CA Technologies), widely used before relational databases. IDMS uses a CODASYL network architecture for data relationships.

Key Characteristics

- Network (CODASYL) data model
- Set-based relationships
- High performance for complex relationships
- Integrated data dictionary
- Online and batch processing
IDMS Architecture:
- Schema: Database structure definition
- Subschema: Application view of database
- Areas: Physical storage allocation
- Records: Data entity types
- Sets: Owner-member relationships
Data Model Concepts:
- Record Types: Entity definitions
- Set Types: Relationship definitions
- Owner Records: Parent in relationship
- Member Records: Child in relationship
- System-Owned Sets: Entry points to database
IDMS Components:
- IDMS/DB: Database management
- IDMS/DC: Transaction processing (like CICS)
- IDMS/UCF: Universal Communications Facility
- Data Dictionary: Metadata repository
- ADS/O: Application development system
Navigation:
- Owner-to-member traversal
- Member-to-owner traversal
- Set currency maintenance
- Database keys for positioning
- Sequential and direct access

Use Cases

- Complex bill-of-materials structures
- Insurance policy and claims relationships
- Banking customer account hierarchies
- Telecommunications network management
- Manufacturing parts assemblies