Update FAQ and TODO

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) FOR POSTGRESQL Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for PostgreSQL
Last updated: Tue May 13 23:15:59 EDT 1997
Version: 6.1
Last updated: Thu Mar 6 17:44:07 EST 1997
Version: 6.0
Current maintainer: Bruce Momjian (maillist@candle.pha.pa.us) Current maintainer: Bruce Momjian (maillist@candle.pha.pa.us)
The most recent version of this document can be viewed at the The most recent version of this document can be viewed at the
postgreSQL Web site, http://postgreSQL.org. postgreSQL Web site, http://postgreSQL.org.
@ -20,12 +17,10 @@
Changes in this version (* = modified, + = new): Changes in this version (* = modified, + = new):
* 3.42) What is Genetic Query Optimization? * 3.42) What is Genetic Query Optimization?
* 3.43) I am running Solaris and my dates display wrong. Why?
_________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
Questions answered: Questions answered:
1) General questions 1) General questions
@ -54,9 +49,8 @@ Questions answered:
/usr/local/pgsql? /usr/local/pgsql?
2.5) When I run postmaster, I get a Bad System Call core dumped 2.5) When I run postmaster, I get a Bad System Call core dumped
message. message.
2.6) When I try to start the postmaster, I get IpcMemoryCreate errors. 2.6) I get the error message "obj/fmgr.h: No such file or directory"
2.7) I have changed a source file, but a recompile does not see the 2.7) When I try to start the postmaster, I get IpcMemoryCreate errors.
change.
2.8) I have changed a source file, but a recompile does not see the 2.8) I have changed a source file, but a recompile does not see the
change? change?
@ -115,6 +109,7 @@ Questions answered:
3.40) What is an oid? What is a tid? 3.40) What is an oid? What is a tid?
3.41) What is the meaning of some of the terms used in Postgres? 3.41) What is the meaning of some of the terms used in Postgres?
3.42) What is Genetic Query Optimization? 3.42) What is Genetic Query Optimization?
3.42) I am running Solaris and my dates display wrong. Why?
4) Questions about extending PostgreSQL 4) Questions about extending PostgreSQL
@ -134,8 +129,6 @@ Section 1: General Questions
1.1) What is PostgreSQL? 1.1) What is PostgreSQL?
PostgreSQL is an enhancement of the POSTGRES database management PostgreSQL is an enhancement of the POSTGRES database management
system, a next-generation DBMS research prototype. While PostgreSQL system, a next-generation DBMS research prototype. While PostgreSQL
retains the powerful data model and rich data types of POSTGRES, it retains the powerful data model and rich data types of POSTGRES, it
@ -145,8 +138,8 @@ Section 1: General Questions
PostgreSQL development is being performed by a team of Internet PostgreSQL development is being performed by a team of Internet
developers who all subscribe to the PostgreSQL development mailing developers who all subscribe to the PostgreSQL development mailing
list. The current coordinator is Marc G. Fournier list. The current coordinator is Marc G. Fournier
(scrappy@postgreSQL.org). (See below on how to join). This team is (scrappy@postgreSQL.org). (See below on how to join). This team is now
now responsible for all current and future development of PostgreSQL. responsible for all current and future development of PostgreSQL.
The authors of PostgreSQL 1.01 were Andrew Yu and Jolly Chen. Many The authors of PostgreSQL 1.01 were Andrew Yu and Jolly Chen. Many
others have contributed to the porting, testing, debugging and others have contributed to the porting, testing, debugging and
@ -162,14 +155,12 @@ Section 1: General Questions
1.2) What does PostgreSQL run on? 1.2) What does PostgreSQL run on?
The authors have compiled and tested PostgreSQL on the following The authors have compiled and tested PostgreSQL on the following
platforms(some of these compiles require gcc 2.7.0): platforms(some of these compiles require gcc 2.7.0):
* aix - IBM on AIX 3.2.5 * aix - IBM on AIX 3.2.5
* alpha - DEC Alpha AXP on OSF/1 2.0 * alpha - DEC Alpha AXP on OSF/1 2.0
* BSD44_derived - OSs derived from 4.4-lite BSD (NetBSD, FreeBSD) * BSD44_derived - OSs derived from 4.4-lite BSD (NetBSD, FreeBSD)
* bsdi - BSD/OS 2.0, 2.01, 2.1 * bsdi - BSD/OS 2.0, 2.01, 2.1, 3.0
* dgux - DG/UX 5.4R3.10 * dgux - DG/UX 5.4R3.10
* hpux - HP PA-RISC on HP-UX 9.0 * hpux - HP PA-RISC on HP-UX 9.0
* i386_solaris - i386 Solaris * i386_solaris - i386 Solaris
@ -184,17 +175,11 @@ Section 1: General Questions
The following platforms have known problems/bugs: The following platforms have known problems/bugs:
* nextstep - Motorola MC68K or Intel x86 on NeXTSTEP 3.2 * nextstep - Motorola MC68K or Intel x86 on NeXTSTEP 3.2
1.3) Where can I get PostgreSQL? 1.3) Where can I get PostgreSQL?
The primary anonymous ftp site for PostgreSQL is: The primary anonymous ftp site for PostgreSQL is:
* ftp://ftp.postgreSQL.org/pub * ftp://ftp.postgreSQL.org/pub
A mirror site exists at: A mirror site exists at:
* ftp://postgres95.vnet.net/pub/postgres95 * ftp://postgres95.vnet.net/pub/postgres95
* ftp://ftp.luga.or.at/pub/postgres95 * ftp://ftp.luga.or.at/pub/postgres95
@ -204,8 +189,6 @@ Section 1: General Questions
1.4) What's the copyright on PostgreSQL? 1.4) What's the copyright on PostgreSQL?
PostgreSQL is subject to the following COPYRIGHT. PostgreSQL is subject to the following COPYRIGHT.
PostgreSQL Data Base Management System PostgreSQL Data Base Management System
@ -233,8 +216,6 @@ Section 1: General Questions
1.5) Support for PostgreSQL 1.5) Support for PostgreSQL
There is no official support for PostgreSQL from the original There is no official support for PostgreSQL from the original
maintainers or from University of California, Berkeley. It is maintainers or from University of California, Berkeley. It is
maintained through volunteer effort only. maintained through volunteer effort only.
@ -248,8 +229,6 @@ Section 1: General Questions
subscribe subscribe
end end
to questions-request@postgreSQL.org. to questions-request@postgreSQL.org.
There is also a digest list available. To subscribe to this list, send There is also a digest list available. To subscribe to this list, send
@ -270,26 +249,19 @@ Section 1: General Questions
with a BODY of: with a BODY of:
subscribe subscribe
end end
Additional information about PostgreSQL can be found via the Additional information about PostgreSQL can be found via the
PostgreSQL WWW home page at: PostgreSQL WWW home page at:
http://postgreSQL.org http://postgreSQL.org
1.6) Latest release of PostgreSQL 1.6) Latest release of PostgreSQL
The latest release of PostgreSQL is version 6.0, which was released on The latest release of PostgreSQL is version 6.0, which was released on
January 31, 1997. For information about what is new in 6.0, see our January 31, 1997. 6.1 is scheduled for release soon. For information
TODO list on our WWW page. about what is new in 6.1, see our TODO list on our WWW page.
We expect a 7.0 release in several months that will remove time-travel We expect a 7.0 release in several months that will remove time-travel
and reduce by 50% the size of on-disk system columns maintained for and reduce by 50% the size of on-disk system columns maintained for
@ -298,8 +270,6 @@ Section 1: General Questions
1.7) Is there a commercial version of PostgreSQL? 1.7) Is there a commercial version of PostgreSQL?
Illustra Information Technology (a wholly owned subsidiary of Informix Illustra Information Technology (a wholly owned subsidiary of Informix
Software, Inc.) sells an object-relational DBMS called Illustra that Software, Inc.) sells an object-relational DBMS called Illustra that
was originally based on postgres. Illustra has cosmetic similarities was originally based on postgres. Illustra has cosmetic similarities
@ -309,8 +279,6 @@ Section 1: General Questions
1.8) What documentation is available for PostgreSQL? 1.8) What documentation is available for PostgreSQL?
A user manual, manual pages, and some small test examples are included A user manual, manual pages, and some small test examples are included
in the distribution. The sql and built-in manual pages are in the distribution. The sql and built-in manual pages are
particularly important. particularly important.
@ -320,24 +288,18 @@ Section 1: General Questions
1.9) What version of SQL does PostgreSQL use? 1.9) What version of SQL does PostgreSQL use?
PostgreSQL supports a subset of SQL-92. It has most of the important PostgreSQL supports a subset of SQL-92. It has most of the important
constructs but lacks some of the functionality. The most visible constructs but lacks some of the functionality. The most visible
differences are: differences are:
* no support for nested subqueries * no support for nested subqueries
* no HAVING clause under a GROUP BY * no HAVING clause under a GROUP BY
On the other hand, you get to create user-defined types, functions, On the other hand, you get to create user-defined types, functions,
inheritance etc. If you're willing to help with PostgreSQL coding, inheritance etc. If you're willing to help with PostgreSQL coding,
eventually we can also add the missing features listed above. eventually we can also add the missing features listed above.
1.10) Does PostgreSQL work with databases from earlier versions of postgres? 1.10) Does PostgreSQL work with databases from earlier versions of postgres?
PostgreSQL v1.09 is compatible with databases created with v1.01. PostgreSQL v1.09 is compatible with databases created with v1.01.
Those upgrading from 1.0 should read the directions in the Those upgrading from 1.0 should read the directions in the
MIGRATION_1.0_TO_1.02 directory. MIGRATION_1.0_TO_1.02 directory.
@ -346,68 +308,49 @@ Section 1: General Questions
1.11) How many people use PostgreSQL? 1.11) How many people use PostgreSQL?
Since we don't have any licensing or registration scheme, it's Since we don't have any licensing or registration scheme, it's
impossible to tell. We do know hundreds copies of PostgreSQL v1.* have impossible to tell. We do know hundreds copies of PostgreSQL v1.* have
been downloaded, and that there many hundreds of subscribers to the been downloaded, and that there many hundreds of subscribers to the
mailing lists. mailing lists.
_________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
Section 2: Installation Questions Section 2: Installation Questions
2.1) initdb doesn't run 2.1) initdb doesn't run
* check to see that you have the proper paths set * check to see that you have the proper paths set
* check that the 'postgres' user owns all the right files * check that the 'postgres' user owns all the right files
* ensure that there are files in $PGDATA/files, and that they are * ensure that there are files in $PGDATA/files, and that they are
non-empty. If they aren't, then "gmake install" failed for some non-empty. If they aren't, then "gmake install" failed for some
reason reason
2.2) when I start up the postmaster, I get "FindBackend: could not find a 2.2) when I start up the postmaster, I get "FindBackend: could not find a
backend to execute..." "postmaster: could not find backend to execute..." backend to execute..." "postmaster: could not find backend to execute..."
You probably do not have the right path set up. The 'postgres' You probably do not have the right path set up. The 'postgres'
executable needs to be in your path. executable needs to be in your path.
2.3) The system seems to be confused about commas, decimal points, and date 2.3) The system seems to be confused about commas, decimal points, and date
formats. formats.
Check your locale configuration. PostgreSQL uses the locale settings Check your locale configuration. PostgreSQL uses the locale settings
of the user that ran the postmaster process. Set those accordingly for of the user that ran the postmaster process. Set those accordingly for
your operating environment. your operating environment.
2.4) How do I install PostgreSQL somewhere other than /usr/local/pgsql? 2.4) How do I install PostgreSQL somewhere other than /usr/local/pgsql?
You need to edit Makefile.global and change POSTGRESDIR accordingly, You need to edit Makefile.global and change POSTGRESDIR accordingly,
or create a Makefile.custom and define POSTGRESDIR there. or create a Makefile.custom and define POSTGRESDIR there.
2.5) When I run postmaster, I get a Bad System Call core dumped message. 2.5) When I run postmaster, I get a Bad System Call core dumped message.
It could be a variety of problems, but first check to see that you It could be a variety of problems, but first check to see that you
have system V extensions installed on your kernel. PostgreSQL requires have system V extensions installed on your kernel. PostgreSQL requires
kernel support for shared memory. kernel support for shared memory.
2.6) I get the error message "obj/fmgr.h: No such file or directory" 2.6) I get the error message "obj/fmgr.h: No such file or directory"
This indicates that you did not generate the file fmgr.h properly. This indicates that you did not generate the file fmgr.h properly.
Something failed in the running of the Something failed in the running of the
src/backend/utils/Gen_fmgrtab.sh script. Check to see the paths used src/backend/utils/Gen_fmgrtab.sh script. Check to see the paths used
@ -415,8 +358,6 @@ Section 2: Installation Questions
2.7) When I try to start the postmaster, I get IpcMemoryCreate errors. 2.7) When I try to start the postmaster, I get IpcMemoryCreate errors.
You either do not have shared memory configured properly in kernel or You either do not have shared memory configured properly in kernel or
you need to enlarge the shared memory available in the kernel. The you need to enlarge the shared memory available in the kernel. The
exact amount you need depends on your architecture and how many exact amount you need depends on your architecture and how many
@ -425,22 +366,15 @@ Section 2: Installation Questions
2.8) I have changed a source file, but a recompile does not see the change? 2.8) I have changed a source file, but a recompile does not see the change?
The Makefiles do not have the proper dependencies for include files. The Makefiles do not have the proper dependencies for include files.
You have to do a 'make clean' and then another 'make'. You have to do a 'make clean' and then another 'make'.
_________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
Section 3: PostgreSQL Features Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.1) How do I specify a KEY or other constraints on a column? 3.1) How do I specify a KEY or other constraints on a column?
Column constraints are not supported in PostgreSQL. As a consequence, Column constraints are not supported in PostgreSQL. As a consequence,
the system does not check for duplicates. the system does not check for duplicates.
@ -449,29 +383,21 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.2) Does PostgreSQL support nested subqueries? 3.2) Does PostgreSQL support nested subqueries?
Subqueries are not implemented, but they can be simulated using sql Subqueries are not implemented, but they can be simulated using sql
functions. functions.
3.3) How do I define a unique indices? 3.3) How do I define a unique indices?
PostgreSQL 6.0 supports unique indices. PostgreSQL 6.0 supports unique indices.
3.4) I've having a lot of problems using rules. 3.4) I've having a lot of problems using rules.
Currently, the rule system in PostgreSQL is mostly broken. It works Currently, the rule system in PostgreSQL is mostly broken. It works
enough to support the view mechanism, but that's about it. Use enough to support the view mechanism, but that's about it. Use
PostgreSQL rules at your own peril. PostgreSQL rules at your own peril.
3.5) I can't seem to write into the middle of large objects reliably. 3.5) I can't seem to write into the middle of large objects reliably.
The Inversion large object system in PostgreSQL is also mostly broken. The Inversion large object system in PostgreSQL is also mostly broken.
It works well enough for storing large wads of data and reading them It works well enough for storing large wads of data and reading them
back out, but the implementation has some underlying problems. Use back out, but the implementation has some underlying problems. Use
@ -480,8 +406,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.6) Does PostgreSQL have a graphical user interface? A report generator? A 3.6) Does PostgreSQL have a graphical user interface? A report generator? A
embedded query language interface? embedded query language interface?
No. No. No. Not in the official distribution at least. Some users have No. No. No. Not in the official distribution at least. Some users have
reported some success at using 'pgbrowse' and 'onyx' as frontends to reported some success at using 'pgbrowse' and 'onyx' as frontends to
PostgreSQL. Several contributions are working on tk based frontend PostgreSQL. Several contributions are working on tk based frontend
@ -489,8 +413,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.7) How can I write client applications to PostgreSQL? 3.7) How can I write client applications to PostgreSQL?
PostgreSQL supports a C-callable library interface called libpq as PostgreSQL supports a C-callable library interface called libpq as
well as a Tcl-based library interface called libtcl. well as a Tcl-based library interface called libtcl.
@ -499,15 +421,11 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.8) How do I prevent other hosts from accessing my PostgreSQL backend? 3.8) How do I prevent other hosts from accessing my PostgreSQL backend?
Use host-based authentication by modifying the file $PGDATA/pg_hba Use host-based authentication by modifying the file $PGDATA/pg_hba
accordingly. accordingly.
3.9) How do I set up a pg_group? 3.9) How do I set up a pg_group?
Currently, there is no easy interface to set up user groups. You have Currently, there is no easy interface to set up user groups. You have
to explicitly insert/update the pg_group table. For example: to explicitly insert/update the pg_group table. For example:
@ -519,8 +437,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
CHANGE CHANGE
jolly=> jolly=>
The fields in pg_group are: The fields in pg_group are:
* groname: the group name. This a char16 and should be purely * groname: the group name. This a char16 and should be purely
alphanumeric. Do not include underscores or other punctuation. alphanumeric. Do not include underscores or other punctuation.
@ -529,12 +445,8 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
* grolist: the list of pg_user id's that belong in the group. This * grolist: the list of pg_user id's that belong in the group. This
is an int4[]. is an int4[].
3.10) What is the exact difference between binary cursors and normal cursors? 3.10) What is the exact difference between binary cursors and normal cursors?
Normal cursors return data back in ASCII format. Since data is stored Normal cursors return data back in ASCII format. Since data is stored
natively in binary format, the system must do a conversion to produce natively in binary format, the system must do a conversion to produce
the ASCII format. In addition, ASCII formats are often large in size the ASCII format. In addition, ASCII formats are often large in size
@ -556,8 +468,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.11) Why doesn't the != operator work? 3.11) Why doesn't the != operator work?
SQL specifies <> as the inequality operator, and that is what we have SQL specifies <> as the inequality operator, and that is what we have
defined for the built-in types. defined for the built-in types.
@ -565,8 +475,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.12) What is a R-tree index and what is it used for? 3.12) What is a R-tree index and what is it used for?
An r-tree index is used for indexing spatial data. A hash index can't An r-tree index is used for indexing spatial data. A hash index can't
handle range searches. A B-tree index only handles range searches in a handle range searches. A B-tree index only handles range searches in a
single dimension. R-tree's can handle multi-dimensional data. For single dimension. R-tree's can handle multi-dimensional data. For
@ -585,8 +493,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.13) What is the maximum size for a tuple? 3.13) What is the maximum size for a tuple?
Tuples are limited to 8K bytes. Taking into account system attributes Tuples are limited to 8K bytes. Taking into account system attributes
and other overhead, one should stay well shy of 8,000 bytes to be on and other overhead, one should stay well shy of 8,000 bytes to be on
the safe side. To use attributes larger than 8K, try using the large the safe side. To use attributes larger than 8K, try using the large
@ -597,8 +503,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.14) I defined indices but my queries don't seem to make use of them. Why? 3.14) I defined indices but my queries don't seem to make use of them. Why?
PostgreSQL does not automatically maintain statistics. One has to make PostgreSQL does not automatically maintain statistics. One has to make
an explicit 'vacuum' call to update the statistics. After statistics an explicit 'vacuum' call to update the statistics. After statistics
are updated, the optimizer has a better shot at using indices. Note are updated, the optimizer has a better shot at using indices. Note
@ -619,8 +523,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.15) Are there ODBC drivers for PostgreSQL? 3.15) Are there ODBC drivers for PostgreSQL?
There are two ODBC drivers available, PostODBC and OpenLink ODBC. There are two ODBC drivers available, PostODBC and OpenLink ODBC.
For all people being interested in PostODBC, there are now two mailing For all people being interested in PostODBC, there are now two mailing
@ -628,14 +530,10 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
* postodbc-users@listserv.direct. net * postodbc-users@listserv.direct. net
* postodbc-developers@listse rv.direct.net * postodbc-developers@listse rv.direct.net
these lists are ordinary majordomo mailing lists. You can subscribe by these lists are ordinary majordomo mailing lists. You can subscribe by
sending a mail to: sending a mail to:
* majordomo@listserv.direct.net * majordomo@listserv.direct.net
OpenLink ODBC is currently in beta under Linux. You can get it from OpenLink ODBC is currently in beta under Linux. You can get it from
http://www.openlinksw.com/postgres.html. It works with our standard http://www.openlinksw.com/postgres.html. It works with our standard
ODBC client software so you'll have Postgres ODBC available on every ODBC client software so you'll have Postgres ODBC available on every
@ -647,8 +545,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.16) How do I use postgres for multi-dimensional indexing (> 2 dimensions)? 3.16) How do I use postgres for multi-dimensional indexing (> 2 dimensions)?
Builtin R-Trees can handle polygons and boxes. In theory, R-trees can Builtin R-Trees can handle polygons and boxes. In theory, R-trees can
be extended to handle higher number of dimensions. In practice, be extended to handle higher number of dimensions. In practice,
extending R-trees require a bit of work and we don't currently have extending R-trees require a bit of work and we don't currently have
@ -657,8 +553,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.17) How do I do regular expression searches? case-insensitive regexp 3.17) How do I do regular expression searches? case-insensitive regexp
searching? searching?
PostgreSQL supports the SQL LIKE syntax as well as more general PostgreSQL supports the SQL LIKE syntax as well as more general
regular expression searching with the ~ operator. The !~ is the regular expression searching with the ~ operator. The !~ is the
negated regexp operator. ~* and !~* are the case-insensitive regular negated regexp operator. ~* and !~* are the case-insensitive regular
@ -666,8 +560,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.18) I can't access the database as the 'root' user. 3.18) I can't access the database as the 'root' user.
You should not create database users with user id 0(root). They will You should not create database users with user id 0(root). They will
be unable to access the database. This is a security precaution be unable to access the database. This is a security precaution
because of the ability of any user to dynamically link object modules because of the ability of any user to dynamically link object modules
@ -676,8 +568,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
3.19) I experienced a server crash during a vacuum. How do I remove the lock 3.19) I experienced a server crash during a vacuum. How do I remove the lock
file? file?
If the server crashes during a vacuum command, chances are it will If the server crashes during a vacuum command, chances are it will
leave a lock file hanging around. Attempts to re-run the vacuum leave a lock file hanging around. Attempts to re-run the vacuum
command result in command result in
@ -685,8 +575,6 @@ Section 3: PostgreSQL Features
WARN:can't create lock file -- another vacuum cleaner running? WARN:can't create lock file -- another vacuum cleaner running?
If you are sure that no vacuum is actually running, you can remove the If you are sure that no vacuum is actually running, you can remove the
file called "pg_vlock" in your database directory (which is file called "pg_vlock" in your database directory (which is
$PGDATA/base/<dbName>) $PGDATA/base/<dbName>)
@ -705,8 +593,6 @@ VARCHAR(#) varchar size specifies maximum length, no padding
TEXT text length limited only by maximum tuple length TEXT text length limited only by maximum tuple length
BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
Remember, you need to use the internal name when creating indexes on Remember, you need to use the internal name when creating indexes on
these fields or when doing other internal operations. these fields or when doing other internal operations.
@ -718,27 +604,18 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
3.21) In a query, how do I detect if a field is NULL? 3.21) In a query, how do I detect if a field is NULL?
PostgreSQL has two builtin keywords, "isnull" and "notnull" (note no PostgreSQL has two builtin keywords, "isnull" and "notnull" (note no
spaces). Version 1.05 and later and 6.* understand IS NULL and IS NOT spaces). Version 1.05 and later and 6.* understand IS NULL and IS NOT
NULL. NULL.
3.22) How do I see how the query optimizer is evaluating my query? 3.22) How do I see how the query optimizer is evaluating my query?
Place the word 'EXPLAIN' at the beginning of the query, for example: Place the word 'EXPLAIN' at the beginning of the query, for example:
EXPLAIN SELECT * FROM table1 WHERE age = 23; EXPLAIN SELECT * FROM table1 WHERE age = 23;
3.23) How do I create a serial field? 3.23) How do I create a serial field?
Postgres does not allow the user to specifiy a user column as type Postgres does not allow the user to specifiy a user column as type
SERIAL. Instead, you can use each row's oid field as a unique value. SERIAL. Instead, you can use each row's oid field as a unique value.
However, if you need to dump and reload the database, you need to be However, if you need to dump and reload the database, you need to be
@ -747,23 +624,17 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
Another valid way of doing this is to create a function: Another valid way of doing this is to create a function:
create table my_oids (f1 int4); create table my_oids (f1 int4);
insert into my_oids values (1); insert into my_oids values (1);
create function new_oid () returns int4 as create function new_oid () returns int4 as
'update my_oids set f1 = f1 + 1; select f1 from my_oids; ' 'update my_oids set f1 = f1 + 1; select f1 from my_oids; '
language 'sql'; language 'sql';
then: then:
create table my_stuff (my_key int4, value text); create table my_stuff (my_key int4, value text);
insert into my_stuff values (new_oid(), 'hello'); insert into my_stuff values (new_oid(), 'hello');
However, keep in mind there is a race condition here where one server However, keep in mind there is a race condition here where one server
could do the update, then another one do an update, and they both could do the update, then another one do an update, and they both
could select the same new id. This statement should be performed could select the same new id. This statement should be performed
@ -771,16 +642,14 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
3.24) How do I create a multi-column index? 3.24) How do I create a multi-column index?
In 6.0, you can not directly create a multi-column index using create
index. You need to define a function which acts on the multiple
columns, then use create index with that function.
In 6.1, this feature is available.
You can not directly create a multi-column index using create index.
You need to define a function which acts on the multiple columns, then
use create index with that function.
3.25) What are the temp_XXX files in my database directory? 3.25) What are the temp_XXX files in my database directory?
They are temp_ files generated by the query executor. For example, if They are temp_ files generated by the query executor. For example, if
a sort needs to be done to satisfy an ORDER BY, some temp files are a sort needs to be done to satisfy an ORDER BY, some temp files are
generated as a result of the sort. generated as a result of the sort.
@ -790,8 +659,6 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
3.26) Why are my table files not getting any smaller after a delete? 3.26) Why are my table files not getting any smaller after a delete?
If you run vacuum in pre-6.0, unused rows will be marked for reuse, If you run vacuum in pre-6.0, unused rows will be marked for reuse,
but the file blocks are not released. but the file blocks are not released.
@ -799,24 +666,16 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
3.27) Why can't I connect to my database from another machine? 3.27) Why can't I connect to my database from another machine?
The default configuration allows only connections from tcp/ip host The default configuration allows only connections from tcp/ip host
localhost. You need to add a host entry to the file pgsql/data/pg_hba. localhost. You need to add a host entry to the file pgsql/data/pg_hba.
3.28) I get the error 'default index class unsupported' when creating an 3.28) I get the error 'default index class unsupported' when creating an
index. How do I do it? index. How do I do it?
You probably used: You probably used:
create index idx1 on person using btree (name); create index idx1 on person using btree (name);
PostgreSQL indexes are extensible, and therefore in pre-6.0, you must PostgreSQL indexes are extensible, and therefore in pre-6.0, you must
specify a class_type when creating an index. Read the manual page for specify a class_type when creating an index. Read the manual page for
create index (called create_index). create index (called create_index).
@ -826,40 +685,30 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
3.29) Why does creating an index crash the backend server? 3.29) Why does creating an index crash the backend server?
You have probably defined an incorrect *_ops type class for the field You have probably defined an incorrect *_ops type class for the field
you are indexing. you are indexing.
3.30) How do I specify a decimal constant as a float8, or a string as a text? 3.30) How do I specify a decimal constant as a float8, or a string as a text?
Why am I getting poor precision? Why am I getting poor precision?
Use the :: operator. It is needed only when the default promotion Use the :: operator. It is needed only when the default promotion
rules fail. i.e.: rules fail. i.e.:
insert into tab1 values (4.23::float8, '2343'::text) insert into tab1 values (4.23::float8, '2343'::text)
The default floating-point constant is a float4 in releases prior to The default floating-point constant is a float4 in releases prior to
1.05. Later releases default to float8. 1.05. Later releases default to float8.
3.31) How do I find out what indexes or operations are defined in the 3.31) How do I find out what indexes or operations are defined in the
database? database?
Run the file pgsql/src/tutorial/syscat.source. It illustrates many of Run the file pgsql/src/tutorial/syscat.source. It illustrates many of
the 'select's needed to get information out of the database system the 'select's needed to get information out of the database system
tables. tables.
3.32) My database is corrupt. I can't do anything. What should I do? 3.32) My database is corrupt. I can't do anything. What should I do?
The 1.02 release has a README file and utility that describes a The 1.02 release has a README file and utility that describes a
possible cause of the problem and a workaround. possible cause of the problem and a workaround.
@ -867,8 +716,6 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
3.33) Createdb, destroydb, createuser,destroyuser don't run. Why? 3.33) Createdb, destroydb, createuser,destroyuser don't run. Why?
Release 1.02 does not have this problem. Release 1.02 does not have this problem.
The 1.01 release of PostgreSQL uses a variable called PAGER to filter The 1.01 release of PostgreSQL uses a variable called PAGER to filter
@ -879,8 +726,6 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
'createuser' return 'unexpected last match in input()'? Why does pg_dump 'createuser' return 'unexpected last match in input()'? Why does pg_dump
fail? fail?
You have compile postgres with flex version 2.5.3. There is bug in You have compile postgres with flex version 2.5.3. There is bug in
this version of flex. Use flex version 2.5.2 or flex 2.5.4 instead. this version of flex. Use flex version 2.5.2 or flex 2.5.4 instead.
There is a doc/README.flex file which will properly patch the flex There is a doc/README.flex file which will properly patch the flex
@ -888,15 +733,11 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
3.35) All my servers crash under concurrent table access. Why? 3.35) All my servers crash under concurrent table access. Why?
This problem can be caused by a kernel that is not configured to This problem can be caused by a kernel that is not configured to
support semaphores. support semaphores.
3.36) What tools are available for hooking postgres to Web pages? 3.36) What tools are available for hooking postgres to Web pages?
For web integration, PHP/FI is an excellent interface. The URL for For web integration, PHP/FI is an excellent interface. The URL for
that is http://www.vex.net/php/ that is http://www.vex.net/php/
@ -906,15 +747,11 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
An example of using WWW with C to talk to Postgres is can be tried at: An example of using WWW with C to talk to Postgres is can be tried at:
* http://postgreSQL.org/~mlc * http://postgreSQL.org/~mlc
An WWW gatway based on WDB using perl can be downloaded from: An WWW gatway based on WDB using perl can be downloaded from:
* http://www.eol.ists.ca/~dunlop/wdb -p95 * http://www.eol.ists.ca/~dunlop/wdb -p95
3.37) What is the time-warp feature and how does it relate to vacuum? 3.37) What is the time-warp feature and how does it relate to vacuum?
PostgreSQL handles data changes differently than most database PostgreSQL handles data changes differently than most database
systems. When a row is changed in a table, the original row is marked systems. When a row is changed in a table, the original row is marked
with the time it was changed, and a new row is created with the with the time it was changed, and a new row is created with the
@ -926,8 +763,6 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
SELECT * SELECT *
FROM employees ['July 24, 1996 09:00:00'] FROM employees ['July 24, 1996 09:00:00']
displays employee rows in the table at the specified time. You can displays employee rows in the table at the specified time. You can
specify intervals like [date,date], [date,], [,date], or [,]. This specify intervals like [date,date], [date,], [,date], or [,]. This
last option accesses all rows that ever existed. last option accesses all rows that ever existed.
@ -946,8 +781,6 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
3.38) How do I tune the database engine for better performance? 3.38) How do I tune the database engine for better performance?
There are two things that can be done. You can use Openlink's option There are two things that can be done. You can use Openlink's option
to disable fsync() by starting the postmaster with a '-o -F' option. to disable fsync() by starting the postmaster with a '-o -F' option.
This will prevent fsync()'s from flushing to disk after every This will prevent fsync()'s from flushing to disk after every
@ -960,8 +793,6 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
3.39) What debugging features are available in PostgreSQL? 3.39) What debugging features are available in PostgreSQL?
PostgreSQL has several features that report status information that PostgreSQL has several features that report status information that
can be valuable for debugging purposes. can be valuable for debugging purposes.
@ -977,8 +808,6 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
cd /usr/local/pgsql cd /usr/local/pgsql
./bin/postmaster >server.log 2>&1 & ./bin/postmaster >server.log 2>&1 &
This will put a server.log file in the top-level PostgreSQL directory. This will put a server.log file in the top-level PostgreSQL directory.
This file can contain useful information about problems or errors This file can contain useful information about problems or errors
encountered by the server. Postmaster has a -d option that allows even encountered by the server. Postmaster has a -d option that allows even
@ -1006,8 +835,6 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
3.40) What is an oid? What is a tid? 3.40) What is an oid? What is a tid?
Oids are Postgres's answer to unique row ids or serial columns. Every Oids are Postgres's answer to unique row ids or serial columns. Every
row that is created in Postgres gets a unique oid. All oids generated row that is created in Postgres gets a unique oid. All oids generated
by initdb are less than 16384 (from backend/access/transam.h). All by initdb are less than 16384 (from backend/access/transam.h). All
@ -1028,8 +855,6 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
3.41) What is the meaning of some of the terms used in Postgres? 3.41) What is the meaning of some of the terms used in Postgres?
Some of the source code and older documentation use terms that have Some of the source code and older documentation use terms that have
more common usage. Here are some: more common usage. Here are some:
* row, record, tuple * row, record, tuple
@ -1042,14 +867,10 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
* portal, cursor * portal, cursor
* range variable, table name, table alias * range variable, table name, table alias
Please let me know if you think of any more. Please let me know if you think of any more.
3.42) What is Genetic Query Optimization? 3.42) What is Genetic Query Optimization?
The GEQO module in PostgreSQL is intended to solve the query The GEQO module in PostgreSQL is intended to solve the query
optimization problem of joining many tables by means of a Genetic optimization problem of joining many tables by means of a Genetic
Algorithm (GA). It allows the handling of large join queries through Algorithm (GA). It allows the handling of large join queries through
@ -1057,18 +878,20 @@ BYTEA bytea variable-length array of bytes
For further information see README.GEQO <utesch@aut.tu-freiberg.de>. For further information see README.GEQO <utesch@aut.tu-freiberg.de>.
3.43) I am running Solaris and my dates display wrong. Why?
Gcc under Solaris has an bug when compiled with optimization level 2.
Edit 'configure', and change -O2 to -O, and recompile. If 'configure'
does not exist in your top level source directory, make the change to
Makefile.global.
_________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
Section 4: Extending PostgreSQL Section 4: Extending PostgreSQL
4.1) I wrote a user-defined function and when I run it in psql, it dumps 4.1) I wrote a user-defined function and when I run it in psql, it dumps
core. core.
The problem could be a number of things. Try testing your user-defined The problem could be a number of things. Try testing your user-defined
function in a stand alone test program first. Also, make sure you are function in a stand alone test program first. Also, make sure you are
not sending elog NOTICES when the front-end is expecting data, such as not sending elog NOTICES when the front-end is expecting data, such as
@ -1077,8 +900,6 @@ Section 4: Extending PostgreSQL
4.2) I get messages of the type NOTICE:PortalHeapMemoryFree: 0x402251d0 not 4.2) I get messages of the type NOTICE:PortalHeapMemoryFree: 0x402251d0 not
in alloc set! in alloc set!
You are pfree'ing something that was not palloc'ed. When writing You are pfree'ing something that was not palloc'ed. When writing
user-defined functions, do not include the file "libpq-fe.h". Doing so user-defined functions, do not include the file "libpq-fe.h". Doing so
will cause your palloc to be a malloc instead of a free. Then, when will cause your palloc to be a malloc instead of a free. Then, when
@ -1086,31 +907,22 @@ Section 4: Extending PostgreSQL
4.3) I've written some nifty new types and functions for PostgreSQL. 4.3) I've written some nifty new types and functions for PostgreSQL.
Please share them with other PostgreSQL users. Send your extensions to Please share them with other PostgreSQL users. Send your extensions to
mailing list, and they will eventually end up in the contrib/ mailing list, and they will eventually end up in the contrib/
subdirectory. subdirectory.
4.4) How do I write a C function to return a tuple? 4.4) How do I write a C function to return a tuple?
This requires extreme wizardry, so extreme that the authors have not This requires extreme wizardry, so extreme that the authors have not
ever tried it, though in principle it can be done. The short answer is ever tried it, though in principle it can be done. The short answer is
... you can't. This capability is forthcoming in the future. ... you can't. This capability is forthcoming in the future.
_________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________
Section 5: Bugs Section 5: Bugs
5.1) How do I make a bug report? 5.1) How do I make a bug report?
Check the current FAQ at http://postgreSQL.org Check the current FAQ at http://postgreSQL.org
Also check out our ftp site ftp://ftp.postgreSQL.org/pub to see if Also check out our ftp site ftp://ftp.postgreSQL.org/pub to see if
@ -1119,6 +931,4 @@ Section 5: Bugs
You can also fill out the "bug-template" file and send it to: You can also fill out the "bug-template" file and send it to:
* bugs@postgreSQL.org * bugs@postgreSQL.org
This is the address of the developers mailing list. This is the address of the developers mailing list.

214
doc/TODO
View File

@ -1,16 +1,16 @@
==================================================== ====================================================
TODO list (FAQ) for PostgreSQL TODO list (FAQ) for PostgreSQL
==================================================== ====================================================
last updated: Sat Mar 1 21:28:10 EST 1997 last updated: Tue May 13 23:16:50 EDT 1997
current maintainer: Bruce Momjian (maillist@candle.pha.pa.us) current maintainer: Bruce Momjian (maillist@candle.pha.pa.us)
The most recent version of this document can be viewed at The most recent version of this document can be viewed at
the postgreSQL WWW site, http://www.postgreSQL.org. the postgreSQL WWW site, http://www.postgreSQL.org.
Changes included in the 6.0 release are listed at the end of this page. Dashed items(-) are being worked on for the 6.1 release.
Dashed items(-) are being worked on for the post-6.0 release. THE CHANGES FOR 6.1 APPEAR AT THE END OF THIS DOCUMENT
Developers who have claimed items are: Developers who have claimed items are:
Bruce is Bruce Momjian<maillist@candle.pha.pa.us> Bruce is Bruce Momjian<maillist@candle.pha.pa.us>
@ -20,8 +20,15 @@ Developers who have claimed items are:
Darren is Darren King <darrenk@insightdist.com> Darren is Darren King <darrenk@insightdist.com>
Edmund is Edmund Mergl <E.Mergl@bawue.de> Edmund is Edmund Mergl <E.Mergl@bawue.de>
Erich Stamberger <eberger@gewi.kfunigraz.ac.at> Erich Stamberger <eberger@gewi.kfunigraz.ac.at>
Jun is Jun Kuwamura <juk@rccm.co.jp>
Kurt is "Kurt J. Lidl" <lidl@va.pubnix.com> Kurt is "Kurt J. Lidl" <lidl@va.pubnix.com>
Martin is Martin S. Utesch <utesch@aut.tu-freiberg.de> Martin is Martin S. Utesch <utesch@aut.tu-freiberg.de>
Oleg is Oleg Bartunov <oleg@sai.msu.su>
Paul is Paul M. Aoki <aoki@CS.Berkeley.EDU>
Raymond is Raymond Toy <toy@rtp.ericsson.se>
Soo-Ho Ok <shok@detc.dongeui-tc.ac.kr>
Stefan Simkovics <ssimkovi@rainbow.studorg.tuwien.ac.at>
Sven is Sven Verdoolaege <skimo@breughel.ufsia.ac.be>
Thomas is Thomas Lockhart <tgl@mythos.jpl.nasa.gov> Thomas is Thomas Lockhart <tgl@mythos.jpl.nasa.gov>
Vadim is "Vadim B. Mikheev" <vadim@sable.krasnoyarsk.su> Vadim is "Vadim B. Mikheev" <vadim@sable.krasnoyarsk.su>
Vivek is Vivek Khera <khera@kci.kciLink.com> Vivek is Vivek Khera <khera@kci.kciLink.com>
@ -51,7 +58,7 @@ Fix UPDATE key_table SET keyval=max(reftab.NUM)+1 WHERE tblname='reftab'
ENHANCEMENTS ENHANCEMENTS
------------ ------------
Add full ANSI SQL capabilities Add full ANSI SQL capabilities (Stefan)
add subselects, possibility using temporary SQL functions add subselects, possibility using temporary SQL functions
Implement HAVING clause Implement HAVING clause
Implement EXISTS qualifier Implement EXISTS qualifier
@ -69,12 +76,13 @@ Add full ANSI SQL capabilities
add the concept of dataspaces add the concept of dataspaces
allow conversion type casts on SELECT target fields allow conversion type casts on SELECT target fields
Allow compression of large fields or a compressed field type Allow compression of large fields or a compressed field type
Fix the rules system(Jan?) Fix the rules system(Jan?,Soo-Ho)
robust robust
making INSTEAD rules work making INSTEAD rules work
add CONSTRAINT add CONSTRAINT
Full set of text operations and functions Full set of text operations and functions
word searches, concat, upper/lower(), max() on text, char - upper/lower()
word searches, concat,max() on text, char
Replace table-level locking with row or page-level locking(Vadim) Replace table-level locking with row or page-level locking(Vadim)
Large objects Large objects
overwriting blocks has problems overwriting blocks has problems
@ -82,11 +90,11 @@ Large objects
Fix large object mapping scheme Fix large object mapping scheme
not to stuff everything as files in a single directory not to stuff everything as files in a single directory
Better interface for adding to pg_group Better interface for adding to pg_group
Make multi-field indexes easier to create -Make multi-field indexes easier to create(Vadim)
allow optimizer to effectively use parameters without accessing table allow optimizer to effectively use parameters without accessing table
Add int8 type -Add int8 type(Thomas)
Add MONEY/DECIMAL type with defined precision -Add MONEY/DECIMAL type(Thomas)
Add table comments Make MONEY/DECIMAL have a defined precision
Add support for tables >2G, or test current version Add support for tables >2G, or test current version
Incorporate the PERL PG95 interface library into source tree(Edmund) Incorporate the PERL PG95 interface library into source tree(Edmund)
Threaded version of the server or libpq Threaded version of the server or libpq
@ -100,8 +108,9 @@ remove time-travel feature(Vadim)
reduce system column overhead(Vadmin) reduce system column overhead(Vadmin)
remove pg_time table(Vadim) remove pg_time table(Vadim)
allow row re-use without vacuum, maybe?(Vadim) allow row re-use without vacuum, maybe?(Vadim)
split apart row removal function from statistics function -split apart row removal function from statistics function(Vadim)
can't vacuum large objects can't vacuum large objects
can't reduce index file size with vacuum
Remove restriction that ORDER BY field must be in SELECT list(?) Remove restriction that ORDER BY field must be in SELECT list(?)
Allow queries about owner of datbases, tables like: Allow queries about owner of datbases, tables like:
SELECT u.usesysid FROM postgres.pg_user u; SELECT u.usesysid FROM postgres.pg_user u;
@ -117,17 +126,20 @@ Remove stale files upon startup(Vivek)
Add command to show privileges Add command to show privileges
Allow INSERT INTO ... SELECT to convert column types Allow INSERT INTO ... SELECT to convert column types
Add syslog functionality Add syslog functionality
Allow aggregate for All types, like count(Darren) Allow aggregate for all types, like count(Darren)
Improve optimizer plan choice(Darren) Improve optimizer plan choice(Darren)
Add STDDEV/VARIANCE() function for standard deviation computation/variance Add STDDEV/VARIANCE() function for standard deviation computation/variance
Add upper/lower functions
Add table/column/function discription table indexed by oid Add table/column/function discription table indexed by oid
-make all identifiers case-insensitive(Bruce) -make all identifiers case-insensitive(Bruce)
add pg_type attribute to identify types that need length (bpchar, varchar) add pg_type attribute to identify types that need length (bpchar, varchar)
add UNIQUE capability to non-btree indexes add UNIQUE capability to non-btree indexes
allow GROUP BY on columns that are functions -allow GROUP BY on columns that on functions(Vadim)
add non-ascii collating strings with strcoll() and setlocale() -add non-ascii collating strings with strcoll() and setlocale (Oleg)
new DATE routines (Thomas) -new DATE routines (Thomas)
-index NULL fields(Vadim)
-Add SERIAL column type(Vadim)
-Add multi-column indexes(Vadim)
-Add SET VAR TO command
PERFORMANCE PERFORMANCE
----------- -----------
@ -153,7 +165,7 @@ Allow indexes to be used with OR clauses(Vadim)
DOCUMENTATION DOCUMENTATION
------------- -------------
Update usermanual source Update usermanual source(many)
remove time-travel in documentation(Bruce) remove time-travel in documentation(Bruce)
added features used in grammer but not in docs, like :: and CAST added features used in grammer but not in docs, like :: and CAST
add DECLARE manual page add DECLARE manual page
@ -165,109 +177,69 @@ Change c.h "Index" and "bool" so they do not conflict with c++
--------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHANGES IN 6.0 RELEASE CHANGES IN THE 6.1 RELEASE
Bug Fixes
---------
ALTER TABLE bug - running postgress process needs to re-read table definition
Allow vacuum to be run on one table or entire database(Bruce)
Array fixes
Fix array over-runs of memory writes(Kurt)
Fix elusive btree range/non-range bug(Dan)
Fix for hash indexes on some types like time and date
Fix for pg_log size explosion
Fix permissions on lo_export()(Bruce)
Fix unitialized reads of memory(Kurt)
Fixed ALTER TABLE ... char(3) bug(Bruce)
Fixed a few small memory leaks
Fixed EXPLAIN handling of options and changed full_path option name
Fixed output of group acl permissions
Memory leaks (hunt and destroy with tools like Purify(Kurt)
Minor improvements to rules system
NOTIFY fixes
New asserts for run-checking
Overhauled parser/analyze code to properly report errors and increase speed
Pg_dump -d now handles NULL's properly(Bruce)
Prevent SELECT NULL from crashing server (Bruce)
Properly report errors when INSERT ... SELECT columns did not match
Properly report errors when insert column names were not correct
Psql \g filename now works(Bruce)
Psql fixed problem with multiple statements on one line with multiple outputs
Removed duplicate system oid's
SELECT * INTO TABLE . GROUP/ORDER BY gives unlink error if table exists(Bruce)
Several fixes for queries that crashed the backend
Starting quote in insert string errors(Bruce)
Submiting an empty query now returns empty status, not just " " query(Bruce)
Enhancements new configuration script(Marc)
------------ readline configuration option added(Marc)
Add EXPLAIN manual page(Bruce) OS-specific configuration options removed(Marc)
Add UNIQUE index capability(Dan) new OS-specific template files(Marc)
Add hostname/user level access control rather than just hostname and user no more need to edit Makefile.global(Marc)
Add synonym of != for <>(Bruce) attribute optimization statistics(Bruce)
Allow "select oid,* from table" re-arrange include files(Marc)
Allow BY,ORDER BY to specify columns by number, or by non-alias table.column(Bruce) much faster new btree bulk load code(Paul)
Allow COPY from the frontend(Bryan) BTREE UNIQUE added to bulk load code(Vadim)
Allow GROUP BY to use alias column name(Bruce) new lock debug code(Massimo)
Allow actual compression, not just reuse on the same page(Vadim) packet length checking in library routines
Allow installation-configuration option to auto-add all local users(Bryan) lock manager priority patch
Allow libpq to distinguish between text value '' and null(Bruce) massing changes to libpg++(Leo)
Allow non-postgres users with createdb privs to destroydb's nextstep patches (Gregor Hoffleit)
Allow restriction on who can create C functions(Bryan) removed WIN32-specific code(Bruce)
Allow restriction on who can do backend COPY(Bryan) new GEQO optimizer speeds table multi-table optimization(Martin)
Allow system to use oid index using constant without cast to oid(Bruce) removed postmaster -e option, now only postgres -e option (Bruce)
Auto-cast numeric constants to type of non-constant(Bruce) check for under/over flow of float8(Bruce)
Can shrink tables, pg_time and pg_log(Vadim & Erich) multi-table join fix(Vadim)
Change debug level 2 to print queries only, changed debug heading layout(Bruce) new WARN message for non-unique insert into unique key(Marc)
Change default decimal constant representation from float4 to float8(Bruce) update x=-3, no spaces, now valid(Bruce)
European date format now set when postmaster is started remove case-sensitive identifier handling(Bruce,Thomas,Dan)
Execute lowercase function names if not found with exact case SIGPIPE crash fix(Darren)
Fixes for aggregate/GROUP processing, allow 'select sum(func(x),sum(x+y) from z' debug backend now pretty-prints tree(Darren)
Gist now included in the distrubution(Marc) new Oracle character functions(Edmund)
Idend authentication of local users(Bryan) new plaintext password functions(Dan)
Implement BETWEEN qualifier(Bruce) no such class or insufficient privilege changed to distinct messages(Dan)
Implement IN qualifier(Bruce) new ANSI timestamp function(Dan)
Libpq has PQgetisnull()(Bruce) new ANSI Time and Date types (Thomas)
Libpq++ improvements merge duplicate library code in front/backends(Martin)
New options to initdb(Bryan) move large chunks of data in backend(Martin)
Pg_dump allow dump of oid's(Bruce) multi-column btree indexes(Vadim)
Pg_dump create indexes after tables are loaded for speed(Bruce) new SET var TO value command(Martin)
Pg_dumpall dumps all databases, and the user table now works with eBones, international Kerberos(Jun)
Pginterface additions for NULL values(Bruce) large object fixes(Sven)
Prevent postmaster from being run as root allow btree indexes to handle NULLs(Vadim)
Psql \h and \? is now readable(Bruce) timezone fixes(D'Arcy)
Psql allow backslashed, semicolons anywhere on the line(Bruce) more shared library support
Psql changed command prompt for lines in query or in quotes(Bruce) auto-udpate transaction status on reads(Dan)
Psql char(3) now displays as (bp)char in \d output(Bruce) new locale settings for character types(Oleg)
Psql return code now more accurate(Bryan?) new SEQUENCE serial number generator(Vadim)
Psql updated help syntax(Bruce) select SUM(x) can return NULL on no rows(Thomas)
Re-visit and fix vacuum(Vadim) internal optimizer, executor bug fixes(Vadim)
Reduce size of regression diffs, remove timezone name difference(Bruce) fix problem where inner loop in < or <= has no rows(Vadim)
Remove compile-time parameters to enable binary distributions(Bryan) prevent re-commuting join index clauses(Vadim)
Reverse meaning of HBA masks(Bryan) fix join clauses for multiple tables(Vadim)
Secure Authentication of local users(Bryan) fix hash, hashjoin for arrays(Vadim)
Speed up vacuum(Vadim) fix btree for abstime type(Vadim)
Vacuum now had VERBOSE option(Bruce) GROUP BY function now possible(Vadim)
re-organize regression test(Thomas,Marc)
new optimizer operation weights(Vadim)
new psql \z grant/permit option(Marc)
new MONEY data type(D'Arcy)
c++ include file cleanup(Bruce)
tcp socket communication speed improved(Vadim)
large object fixes(Raymond)
new VACUUM option for attribute statistics, and for certain columns (Vadim)
many geometric type improvements(Thomas,Keith)
additional regression tests(Thomas)
new datestyle variable(Thomas)
more comparison operators for sorting types(Thomas)
new conversion functions(Thomas)
new more compact btree format(Vadim)
Source tree changes
-------------------
All functions now have prototypes that are compared against the calls
Allow asserts to be disabled easly from Makefile.global(Bruce)
Change oid constants used in code to #define names
Decoupled sparc and solaris defines(Kurt)
Gcc -Wall compiles cleanly with warnings only from unfixable constructs
Major include file reorganization/reduction(Marc)
Make now stops on compile failure(Bryan)
Makefile restructuring(Bryan, Marc)
Merge bsdi_2_1 to bsdi(Bruce)
Monitor program removed
Name change from Postgres95 to PostgreSQL
New config.h file(Marc, Bryan)
PG_VERSION now set to 6.0 and used by postmaster
Portability additions, including Ultrix, DG/UX, AIX, and Solaris
Reduced the number of #define's, centeralized #define's
Remove duplicate OIDS in system tables(Dan)
Remove duplicate system catalog info or report mismatches(Dan)
Removed many os-specific #define's
Restructured object file generation/location(Bryan, Marc)
Restructured port-specific file locations(Bryan, Marc)
Unused/uninialized variables corrected