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Ask Database Guru Brian Aker

Posted by Roblimo on from the earning-a-living-with-open-source-software dept.

Brian Aker is Director of Architecture for MySQL AB. He has also worked on the code (and database) that runs Slashdot, and is well-known in both Apache and Perl circles. Outside of the arcane world of open source "back-end" programming, though, hardly anyone has heard of him. This is your chance to ask Brian (hopefully after looking at his blog and Wikipedia listing) about anything you like, from Perl to database architecture to open source philosophy to upcoming events in Seattle. We'll send Brian 10 of the highest-moderated questions approximately 24 hours after this post appears. His (verbatim) answers will appear late this week or early next week.

7 of 232 comments (clear)

  1. Data Truncation by FroMan · · Score: 5, Funny

    Is it valid behavior to silently tru

    --
    Norris/Palin 2012
    Fact: We deserve leaders who can kick your ass and field dress your carcass.
  2. mySQL vs. PostgreSQL by saterdaies · · Score: 5, Funny

    So, let me get this straight: you (mySQL) use a dolphin to fetch data while PostgreSQL uses an elephant to fetch data. Would that explain why PostgreSQL is better at fetching large datasets? Like, the elephant can haul more, but is slower while the dolphin is faster, but can't carry as well? Have you thought about using a non-animal to fetch your data? Maybe a racecar? Those are fast and could probably haul as much as an elephant. Plus, then I wouldn't need to have fish or peanuts in my server room.

    1. Re:mySQL vs. PostgreSQL by daeg · · Score: 4, Funny

      Reminds me of a few years back. I had just finished presenting a lengthy, well-thought out package on implementing a new software system for a new company to the owner. After the entire charade, he looked me in the eye as he pointed to the cover of the document, which featured the logos of all software systems involved. He was pointing to the MySQL dolphin. "What's this dolphin doing here? you're not some kind of [expletive] [expletive] [expletive] eco nut are you? I'm not a fan of them..."

    2. Re:mySQL vs. PostgreSQL by Dunbal · · Score: 2, Funny

      Plus, then I wouldn't need to have fish or peanuts in my server room.

            but the fish are good for both the dolphin AND the penguin...

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      Seven puppies were harmed during the making of this post.
    3. Re:mySQL vs. PostgreSQL by Vihai · · Score: 2, Funny

      Yes, that's why I prefer a DBMS that doesn't like to fsck with my databases :)

    4. Re:mySQL vs. PostgreSQL by Tablizer · · Score: 1, Funny

      He was pointing to the MySQL dolphin. "What's this dolphin doing here? you're not some kind of [expletive] [expletive] [expletive] eco nut are you? I'm not a fan of them..."

      Ah, the joy of working in a red state :-)

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      Table-ized A.I.
  3. Re:Largest challenges by Just+Some+Guy · · Score: 2, Funny

    This post is full of spelling and grammer mistakes.

    It's spelled "grammar".

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    Dewey, what part of this looks like authorities should be involved?