This document provides an introduction to basic database concepts. It defines what a database is, gives examples of common databases, and distinguishes between data and information. The key purposes of databases are also outlined, which are to organize data, keep records, develop reports, and perform research. Different database models are introduced, including non-relational and relational databases. Fundamental database components like files, records, fields, and tables are also defined. Finally, considerations for data entry like barcode scanners and pocket PCs are briefly discussed.

2. Basic Concepts of Data
Bases
Presented By Danial Masood
Reg #1421-310031
&
Bilal Mushtaq
Reg #1421-310033

3. Introduction to Database
A database is any organized collection of
data. Some examples of databases you
may encounter in your daily life are:
◦ Phone Contacts
◦ airline reservation system
◦ papers in your filing cabinet
◦ Banking Record.

4. Data vs. information:
What is the difference?
 What is data?  What is information?
◦ Information is data that
◦ Data can be defined in
have been organized
many ways. Information
and communicated in a
science defines data as
coherent and meaningful
unprocessed
manner.
information.
◦ Data is converted into
information, and
information is converted
into knowledge.
◦ Knowledge; information
evaluated and organized
so that it can be used
purposefully.

5. Why do we need a database?
 Keep records of our:
◦ Clients
◦ Staff
◦ Volunteers
 To keep a record of
activities and
interventions;
 Keep sales records;
 Develop reports;
 Perform research
 Longitudinal tracking

6. What is the ultimate purpose of a
database management system?
Is to transform
Data Information Knowledge Action

7. More about database definition
What is a database?
 A structured set of data held in a
computer, especially one that is accessible in
various ways.

8. Let’s explore some examples
 Outlook contacts
 GIS-GPS systems

9. Some models about Database
Non-relational database
Relational database

10. Non Relational Databases
 Non-relational databases place
information in field categories that
we create so that information is
available for sorting and
disseminating the way we need it.
Example: a spread sheet

11. Relational Database
 In relational databases, fields can be
used in a number of ways (and can be
of variable length), provided that
they are linked in tables. It is
developed based on a database model
that provides for logical connections
among files (known as tables) by
including identifying data from one
table in another table

12. Some Definitions
 A File: A group or collection of similar records,
 A record book: a “Hawlet Packard" of data
records, like address lists, inventory lists, classes
 A field: one category of
information, i.e., Name, Address, Semester
Grade, Academic topic

 A record: one piece of data, i.e., one student's
information, a recipe, a test question
 A layout: a design for a database that contains
field names and possibly graphics.

13. Fundamental building blocks
Tables comprise the fundamental building blocks of any
database. If you're familiar with spreadsheets, you'll
find database tables extremely similar. Take a look at
this example of a table sample database:

14. Data Entry –considerations
 Barcode scanners
◦ USB or
◦ Wireless attached to
a Palm or Pocket PC
 Pocket PC
◦ Wi-Fi
802.11g, Bluetooth
◦ Wireless networks
(real-time on
demand systems)