These multiple record formatted files will use a template or record identifier to distinguish how the remaining items in the row should be interpreted.įixed length definitions structure each column across the row with a defined start and stop position. More complex forms of flat files would consist of multiple record definitions, where one or more records would have similar columns to others, yet some rows would vary in layout and content. Every row is made up of a horizontal list of fields and the same definition of the row can be applied to every row in the file. The record or “row” (as commonly referred to) repeats from one to many times, with each successive row representing a common definition. The simplest form of flat file is a standard text file and consists of a single record definition.
“Flat File” databases consist of formats including single or multiple record types, and come in flavors of fixed-length definitions and delimited. In this entry, we will consider two general types of databases and explore some of their applications and key points in the decision cycle when faced with a project. To make an informed decision on which to deploy, the application engineer should be familiar with the types of databases as well as the pros/cons of each. Determining the type of database to be deployed for a project is a combination of access requirements and preference.
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