What Are DataBlade Modules?

A DataBlade module is a software package that extends the functionality of IBM Informix Dynamic Server. The package includes SQL statements and supporting code written in an external language or Informix SPL. DataBlade modules can also contain client components.

A DataBlade module adds user-defined database objects that extend the SQL syntax and commands you can use with your Informix database server. A database object is an SQL entity, such as a data type, routine, or database table. Your Informix database server handles DataBlade module objects as built-in objects. When it handles a user-defined database object, it executes the associated source code provided with the DataBlade module.

Extensions to your database server belong to two main categories:

• Types of data. This category includes extended data types that are not built into the database server. Extended data types can contain multiple elements (row, collection, and opaque data types) and data types that support inheritance (distinct and row data types). The internal structure of opaque data types is not accessible through built-in SQL commands, but it can be accessed through user-defined routines and opaque data type support routines.
• Routines. This category includes user-defined routines, aggregates, data type support routines, cast support routines, and routines that support user-defined access methods.

If you are unfamiliar with DataBlade module technology and the DataBlade Developers Kit, you might have the following questions:

• Why should I extend my database server?
• Why should I use a DataBlade module to extend my database server?
• Why should I use the DataBlade Developers Kit to create a DataBlade module?

Each of these questions is addressed in the following subsections.