The document describes an existing Oracle database application architecture that includes two Oracle databases - GMU2 which is a departmental production database, and RPRT which is a read-only copy of the production Banner database refreshed nightly. An existing dbLink connects the two databases and is used by PHP applications on a secure server called Chimera to read payroll and user information from RPRT.

1. Application Architecture
Existing Oracle dbLink
Oracle Database
“GMU2”
Oracle Database
“RPRT”
“RPRT” is a read-only
copy of the Banner
production database
refreshed on a nightly
basis by ITU
“GMU2” is a departmental
production database used
for a variety of HR/P
applications. The database
is maintained by ITU
The existing dbLink is used, for
example, to read payroll dates
that are displayed on the web.
The same link can be used to
obtain read-only access to the
required user information
“CHIMERA” secure server
Existing HR/P Departmental PHP Applications.
“Chimera” is maintained by ITU
“HYDRA” secure server “CILIX” secure server

2. Architecture Notes
• Chimera is a secure server maintained by ITU and used for many
production HR/P applications (training, exit surveys, etc).
Applications are written in PHP
• PHP uses Oracle-provided libraries (OCI8) to compile, execute, and
process SQL. HR uses an application framework on Chimera to
optimize application development & support
• Chimera web applications use the existing LDAP directory (Patriot
Pass) to authenticate users
• RPRT is a read-only database provided as part of the overall Data
Warehouse architecture. Data can be up to 24 hours old
• Email address, obtained from LDAP (Patriot Pass), will be used to
access Banner customer data in RPRT via the dbLink in GMU2