What is the Difference Between RDBMS and ORDBMS?

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The main difference between a Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) and an Object-Relational Database Management System (ORDBMS) lies in the data model they use.

An RDBMS is based on the relational model of data, where data is organized into related tables. It uses Structured Query Language (SQL) to access the database and is based on the mathematical theory of relational algebra and calculus. Some examples of RDBMS include MS SQL Server, MySQL, SQLite, and MariaDB.

On the other hand, an ORDBMS is based on both the relational and object-oriented database models. It combines the features of RDBMS and Object-Oriented Database Management Systems (OODBMS), allowing developers to embed new classes of data objects into the relational data model abstraction. Some examples of ORDBMS include PostgreSQL.

Here are some key differences between RDBMS and ORDBMS:

  • Data Model: RDBMS uses a relational data model, while ORDBMS uses a combination of relational and object-oriented data models.
  • Data Complexity: RDBMS handles relatively simpler data, while ORDBMS handles larger and more complex data.
  • Programming Language Support: RDBMS supports SQL, while ORDBMS supports both SQL and Object Query Language (OQL).
  • Applications: RDBMS is suitable for traditional application tasks such as data administration and processing, while ORDBMS is used for applications with complex objects.
  • Maturity: Since RDBMS has been around longer, it is more mature and has an extensive supply of tools and trained developers. ORDBMS, being more recent, is still developing and may be considered immature in comparison.
  • Object-Oriented Programming Support: RDBMS has poor support for object-oriented programming, while ORDBMS supports the features of object-oriented programming.

Comparative Table: RDBMS vs ORDBMS

Here is a table comparing the differences between Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS) and Object-Relational Database Management Systems (ORDBMS):

Feature RDBMS ORDBMS
Data Organization Organizes data into related tables, based on the relational model Combines relational and object-oriented data models, supporting objects, classes, inheritance, and custom data types and methods
Data Complexity Handles simpler data Handles larger and complex data than RDBMS
Data Types Limited to new data types Supports extensibility and content, including audio, video, and image files
Maturity Mature, well-established technology Developing, may be immature in some aspects
Tools and Developers Extensive supply of tools and trained developers May have fewer tools and developers due to its developing nature

In summary, RDBMS is a well-established database management system that organizes data into related tables based on the relational model. ORDBMS, on the other hand, is an improved version that combines the relational model with object-oriented concepts, allowing for more complex data handling and better integration with object-oriented programming languages. However, ORDBMS may still be in the developing stage and may have fewer tools and developers compared to RDBMS.