Oracle lets field workers tap into grid-computing

Posted on 11 Jan 2005 at 13:27

Oracle has announced the latest version of its mobile database software, Oracle Database Lite 10g.

The latest version enables field workers to tap into Oracle's grid-computing technology and input and access data and applications held on corporate back-end systems when away from the office.

The entire installed base of Database Lite 10g can be managed as part of the existing grid through a Web-based console, rather than deploying dedicated mobile management software separately. Mobile devices can have 10g installed and updated remotely through the console. Likewise, should a device be stolen or go missing, any vital company data can be removed.

10g doesn't require a continuous connection; it connects and synchronises when a network is available, whether it is across a LAN, Wi-Fi, satellite or radio.

Jacob Christfort, CTO and vice president of Mobile and Wireless products, Oracle Corporation, said: 'Making information available directly and in real-time to employees on the frontline - serving or selling to customers - is an increasingly critical step to gaining such efficiencies. Oracle Database Lite 10g is squarely targeted at helping our customers to achieve just that, and more specifically, offers a set of unique advances in terms of scalability, reliability, and security consistent with the overall Oracle 10g technology stack.'

The market for mobile databases is growing rapidly, according to IDC. The research group gauged the market value at around $424.4mn in 2003, and predicts it to top $1.3bn in 2008.

Although commercial businesses have traditionally provided the drivers for mobile database use, with their sales forces ever more mobile, increasingly the public sector and services industries have taken an interest.

For example, the Melbourne, Australia-based Metropolitan Ambulance Service (MAS) has adopted Oracle Database Lite 10g. Its paramedics can record vital information out in the field, such as the state of the patient and procedures performed, which can then be accessed by others so that the hospital is fully prepared to receive him or her.

Oracle Database Lite 10g runs on Linux, UNIX and Windows and its development environments include support for Java and .NET tools such as Oracle JDeveloper 10g and Microsoft Visual Studio .NET. Applications can be built using several programming languages such as Java, C/C++ and Visual Studio for platforms including Linux, Microsoft Windows CE/NT/2000/XP/2003, Palm OS, and Pocket PC.

Oracle Database Lite 10g costs $100 per user. For more information visit www.oracle.com.

Author: Matt Whipp