The book comprises an overview of the Oracle8i architecture, server administration, and application development. The overview documents the major terms and concepts such as databases, ROWIDs, and segments. True to its title, the rest of the book showcases tips and techniques--both documented and formerly undocumented--that help you make the most of Oracle8i. The server administration section includes numerous suggestions pertaining to installation, data warehousing, performance, security, and a number of other subjects. The reader will also learn about a wide range of tips such as backing up statistics and managing data warehouse constraints.

In the application development section there is a boatload of PL/SQL, SQLJ, JDBC, and Enterprise JavaBeans tips. Each tip and technique is explained concisely, usually with a companion piece of code to illustrate the approach.

New users of Oracle8i may very well find themselves lost in this text since it is really targeted at those with a solid foundation in the product. However, for users wanting to take their expertise to the next level, this book provides hundreds of useful insights. --Stephen W. Plain

Topics covered: Oracle8i overview, installation, rollback segments, JVM, manageability, performance, execution plans, data warehousing, security, PL/SQL, JSQL and JDBC, Enterprise JavaBeans, interMedia Text, interMedia multimedia.