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Data. A bind array is an area in memory where SQL*Loader stores data that is to be loaded. When the bind array is full, the data is transmitted to the database. The bind array size is controlled by the SQL*Loader BINDSIZE and READSIZE parameters. The database accepts the data and executes the INSERT statement to store the data in the database. Oracle Database uses the data type of the column to convert the data into its final, stored form. Keep in mind the distinction between a field in a data file and a column in the database. Remember also that the field data types defined in a SQL*Loader control file are not the same as the column data types. 7.7 SQL*Loader Discarded and Rejected Records SQL*Loader can reject or discard some records read from the input file, either because of issues with the files, or because you have selected to filter the records out of the load. Rejected records are placed in a bad file, and discarded records are placed in a discard file. The SQL*Loader Bad FileThe bad file contains records that were rejected, either by SQL*Loader or by Oracle Database. The SQL*Loader Discard FileAs SQL*Loader runs, it can filter some records out of the load, and create a file called the discard file. 7.7.1 The SQL*Loader Bad File The bad file contains records that were rejected, either by SQL*Loader or by Oracle Database. If you do not specify a bad file, and there are rejected records, then SQL*Loader automatically creates one. A rejected record has the same name as the data file, with a .bad extension. There can be several causes for rejections. Records Rejected by SQL*LoaderData file records are rejected by SQL*Loader when the input format is invalid. Records Rejected by Oracle Database During a SQL*Loader OperationAfter a data file record is accepted for processing by SQL*Loader, it is sent to the database for insertion into a table as a row. 7.7.1.1 Records Rejected by SQL*Loader Data file records are rejected by SQL*Loader when the input format is invalid. For example, if the second enclosure delimiter is missing, or if a delimited field exceeds its maximum length, then SQL*Loader rejects the record. Rejected records are placed in the bad file. 7.7.1.2 Records Rejected by Oracle Database During a SQL*Loader Operation After a data file record is accepted for processing by SQL*Loader, it is sent to the database for insertion into a table as a row. If the database determines that the row is valid, then the row is inserted into the table. If the row is determined to be invalid, then the record is rejected and SQL*Loader puts it in the bad file. The row may be invalid, for example, because a key is not unique, because a required field is null, or because the field contains invalid data for the Oracle data type. 7.7.2 The SQL*Loader Discard File As SQL*Loader runs, it can filter some records out of the load, and create a file called the
04 - SQL LOADER – Oracle SQL Loader Training Manual.pdf
This chapter explains the basic concepts of loading data into an Oracle database with SQL*Loader. This chapter covers the following topics:SQL*Loader BasicsSQL*Loader Control FileInput Data and DatafilesData Conversion and Datatype SpecificationDiscarded and Rejected RecordsLog File and Logging InformationConventional Path Load versus Direct Path LoadPartitioned Object SupportNote: If you are using Trusted Oracle, see the Trusted Oracle documentation for information about using the SQL*Loader in that environment. SQL*Loader BasicsSQL*Loader loads data from external files into tables in an Oracle database. SQL*Loader has many features of the DB2 Load Utility from IBM, as well as several other features that give it additional power and flexibility. SQL*Loader accepts input data in a variety of formats, can perform filtering (selectively loading records based upon their data values), and can load data into multiple Oracle database tables during the same load session. Figure 3-1 shows the basic components of a SQL*Loader session in operation. Figure 3-1 SQL*Loader Overview SQL*Loader takes a control file as its input, which describes the load to SQL*Loader. The control file also specifies the input datafile(s).As it executes, SQL*Loader produces a log file where it writes information about the load. If records are rejected (typically because of incorrect data), it produces a bad file containing the rejected records. It also may produce a discard file containing records that did not meet the specified selection criteria.SQL*Loader can: Load data from multiple input datafiles of different file types Handle fixed-format, delimited-format, and variable-length records Manipulate data fields with SQL functions before inserting the data into database columnsSupport a wide range of datatypes, including DATE, BINARY, PACKED DECIMAL, and ZONED DECIMALLoad multiple tables during the same run, loading selected rows into each tableCombine multiple physical records into a single logical recordHandle a single physical record as multiple logical records Generate unique, sequential key values in specified columnsUse the operating system's file or record management system to access datafiles Load data from disk, tape, or named pipesThoroughly report errors so you can easily adjust and load all recordsUse high-performance "direct" loads to load data directly into database files without Oracle processing (discussed in Chapter 8, "SQL*Loader: Conventional and Direct Path Loads") SQL*Loader Control FileThe control file, written in SQL*Loader data definition language (DDL), specifies how to interpret the data, what tables and columns to insert the data into, and may also include input datafile management information. The data for SQL*Loader to load into an Oracle database must be in files accessible to SQL*Loader (typically a file in a file system, on tape, or a named pipe, depending on the platform). SQL*Loader requires information about the data to be loaded which provides instructions for mapping the input data to columns of a table. These instructions are written in SQL*Loader DDL, typically by the DBA using the system text editor. Following are some of the items that are specified in the SQL*Loader control file: Specifications for loading logical records into tables Field condition specificationsColumn and field specificationsData-field position specificationsDatatype specificationsBind array size specificationsSpecifications for setting columns toWhat is SQL Loader? Explain the files used by SQL Loader
Field with a maximum length of five characters. The data for that column (bbb) is left-justified as well, but the length remains three characters.The name of the field tells SQL*Loader what column to insert the data into. Because the first data field has been specified with the name "A" in the control file, SQL*Loader knows to insert the data into column A of the target database table. It is useful to keep the following points in mind:The name of the data field corresponds to the name of the table column into which the data is to be loaded.The datatype of the field tells SQL*Loader how to treat the data in the datafile (e.g. bind type). It is not the same as the column datatype. SQL*Loader input datatypes are independent of the column datatype.Data is converted from the datatype specified in the control file to the datatype of the column in the database.The distinction between logical records and physical records. Discarded and Rejected RecordsRecords read from the input file might not be inserted into the database. Figure 3-6 shows the stages at which records may be rejected or discarded. The Bad FileThe bad file contains records rejected, either by SQL*Loader or by Oracle. Some of the possible reasons for rejection are discussed in the next sections. SQL*Loader RejectsRecords are rejected by SQL*Loader when the input format is invalid. For example, if the second enclosure delimiter is missing, or if a delimited field exceeds its maximum length, SQL*Loader rejects the record. Rejected records are placed in the bad file. For details on how to specify the bad file, see "Specifying the Bad File" on page 5-19Figure 3-6 Record Filtering Oracle RejectsAfter a record is accepted for processing by SQL*Loader, a row is sent to Oracle8 for insertion. If Oracle determines that the row is valid, then the row is inserted into the database. If not, the record is rejected, and SQL*Loader puts it in the bad file. The row may be rejected, for example, because a key is not unique, because a required field is null, or because the field contains invalid data for the Oracle datatype.The bad file is written in the same format as the datafile. So rejected data can be loaded with the existing control file after necessary corrections are made.Case 4 is an example of the use of a bad file. SQL*Loader DiscardsAs SQL*Loader executes, it may create a file called the discard file. This file is created only when it is needed, and only if you have specified that a discard file should be enabled (see "Specifying the Discard File" on page 5-21). The discard file contains records that were filtered out of the load because they did not match any record-selection criteria specified in the control file.The discard file therefore contains records that were not inserted into any table in the database. You can specify the maximum number of such records that the discard file can accept. Data written to any database table is not written. oracle sql loader free download. View, compare, and download oracle sql loader at SourceForge sql loader oracle free download. View, compare, and download sql loader oracle at SourceForgeWhat is SQL Loader? Explain the files used by SQL Loader to
Learn about the basic concepts you should understand before loading data into an Oracle Database using SQL*Loader. SQL*Loader FeaturesSQL*Loader loads data from external files into Oracle Database tables. SQL*Loader ParametersSQL*Loader is started either when you specify the sqlldr command, or when you specify parameters that establish various characteristics of the load operation. SQL*Loader Control FileThe control file is a text file written in a language that SQL*Loader understands. Input Data and Data Fields in SQL*LoaderLearn how SQL*Loader loads data and identifies record fields. LOBFILEs and Secondary Data Files (SDFs)Large Object (LOB) data can be lengthy enough that it makes sense to load it from a LOBFILE. Data Conversion and Data Type SpecificationDuring a conventional path load, data fields in the data file are converted into columns in the database (direct path loads are conceptually similar, but the implementation is different). SQL*Loader Discarded and Rejected RecordsSQL*Loader can reject or discard some records read from the input file, either because of issues with the files, or because you have selected to filter the records out of the load. Log File and Logging InformationWhen SQL*Loader begins processing, it creates a log file. Conventional Path Loads, Direct Path Loads, and External Table LoadsSQL*Loader provides several methods to load data. Loading Objects, Collections, and LOBs with SQL*LoaderYou can bulk-load the column, row, LOB, and JSON database objects that you need to model real-world entities, such as customers and purchase orders. Partitioned Object Support in SQL*LoaderPartitioned database objects enable you to manage sections of data, either collectively or individually. SQL*Loader supports loading partitioned objects. Application Development: Direct Path Load APIDirect path loads enable you to load data from external files into tables and partitions.Oracle provides a direct path load API for application developers. SQL*Loader Case StudiesTo learn how you can use SQL*Loader features, you can run a variety of case studies that Oracle provides. 7.1 SQL*Loader Features SQL*Loader loads data from external files into Oracle Database tables. SQL*Loader has a powerful data parsing engine that puts few limitations on the format of the data in the data file. You can use SQL*Loader to do the following: Load data across a network, if your data files are on a different system than the database. Load data from multiple data files during the same load session. Load data into multiple tables during the same load session. Specify the character set of the data. Selectively load data (you can load records based on the records' values). Manipulate the data before loading it, using SQL functions. Generate unique sequential key values in specified columns. Use the operating system's file system to access the data files. Load data from disk, tape, or named pipe. Generate sophisticated error reports, which greatly aid troubleshooting. Load arbitrarily complex object-relational data. Use secondary data files for loading Large Objects (LOBs) and collections. Use conventional, direct path, or external table loads. LOBs are used to hold large amounts of data inside Oracle Database. SQL*Loader and external tables use LOBFILEs. Data for a LOB can be veryError launching SQL Loader: Location of SQL Loader required .
Large, and not fit in line in a SQL*Loader data file. Also, if the file contains binary data, then it can’t be in line. Instead, the data file has the name of a file containing the data for the LOB field. In that case, SQL*Loader and the external table code open the LOBFILE, and load the contents into the LOB column for the current row. The data is then passed to the server, just as with data for any other column type. JSON columns can be loaded using the same methods used to load scalars and LOBs You can use SQL*Loader in two ways: with or without a control file. A control file controls the behavior of SQL*Loader and one or more data files used in the load. Using a control file gives you more control over the load operation, which might be desirable for more complicated load situations. But for simple loads, you can use SQL*Loader without specifying a control file; this is referred to as SQL*Loader express mode. The output of SQL*Loader is an Oracle Database database (where the data is loaded), a log file, a bad file if there are rejected records, and potentially, a discard file. The following figure shows an example of the flow of a typical SQL*Loader session that uses a control file. 7.2 SQL*Loader Parameters SQL*Loader is started either when you specify the sqlldr command, or when you specify parameters that establish various characteristics of the load operation. In situations where you always use the same parameters for which the values seldom change, it can be more efficient to specify parameters by using the following methods, rather than on the command line: You can group parameters together in a parameter file. You can then specify the name of the parameter file on the command line by using the PARFILE parameter. You can specify some parameters within the SQL*Loader control file by using the OPTIONS clause. Parameters specified on the command line override any parameter values specified in a parameter file or OPTIONS clause. 7.3 SQL*Loader Control File The control file is a text file written in a language that SQL*Loader understands. The control file tells SQL*Loader where to find the data, how to parse and interpret the data, where to insert the data, and more. In general, the control file has three main sections, in the following order: Session-wide information Table and field-list information Input data (optional section) Some control file syntax considerations to keep in mind are: The syntax is free-format (statements can extend over multiple lines). The syntax is case-insensitive; however, strings enclosed in single or double quotation marks are taken literally, including case. In control file syntax, comments extend from the two hyphens (--) that mark the beginning of the comment to the end of the line. The optional third section of the control file is interpreted as data rather than as control file syntax; consequently, comments in this section are not supported. The keywords CONSTANT and ZONE have specialSQL Loader - docs.oracle.com
Meaning to SQL*Loader and are therefore reserved. To avoid potential conflicts, Oracle recommends that you do not use either CONSTANT or ZONE as a name for any tables or columns. 7.4 Input Data and Data Fields in SQL*Loader Learn how SQL*Loader loads data and identifies record fields. How SQL*Loader Reads Input Data and Data FilesSQL*Loader reads data from one or more data files (or operating system equivalents of files) specified in the control file. Fixed Record FormatA file is in fixed record format when all records in a data file are the same byte length. Variable Record Format and SQL*LoaderA file is in variable record format when the length of each record in a character field is included at the beginning of each record in the data file. Stream Record Format and SQL*LoaderA file is in stream record format when the records are not specified by size; instead SQL*Loader forms records by scanning for the record terminator. Logical Records and SQL*LoaderSQL*Loader organizes input data into physical records, according to the specified record format. By default, a physical record is a logical record. Data Field Setting and SQL*LoaderLearn how SQL*Loader determines the field setting on the logical record after a logical record is formed. 7.4.1 How SQL*Loader Reads Input Data and Data Files SQL*Loader reads data from one or more data files (or operating system equivalents of files) specified in the control file. From SQL*Loader's perspective, the data in the data file is organized as records. A particular data file can be in fixed record format, variable record format, or stream record format. The record format can be specified in the control file with the INFILE parameter. If no record format is specified, then the default is stream record format. Note: If data is specified inside the control file (that is, INFILE * was specified in the control file), then the data is interpreted in the stream record format with the default record terminator. 7.4.2 Fixed Record Format A file is in fixed record format when all records in a data file are the same byte length. Although the fixed record format is the least flexible format, using it results in better performance than variable or stream format. Fixed format is also simple to specify. For example:INFILE datafile_name "fix n"This example specifies that SQL*Loader should interpret the particular data file as being in fixed record format where every record is n bytes long. The following example shows a control file that specifies a data file (example1.dat) to be interpreted in the fixed record format. The data file in the example contains five physical records; each record has fields that contain the number and name of an employee. Each of the five records is 11 bytes long, including spaces. For the purposes of explaining this example, periods are used to represent spaces in the records, but in the actual records there would be no periods. With that in mind, the first physical record is 396,...ty,. which is exactly eleven bytes (assuming asql loader free download - SourceForge
Null or zeroSpecifications for loading all-blank fieldsSpecifications for trimming blanks and tabsSpecifications to preserve white space Specifications for applying SQL operators to fieldsSQL*Loader DDL is upwardly compatible with the DB2 Load Utility from IBM. Normally you can use a control file for the DB2 Load Utility as a control file for SQL*Loader. See Appendix B, "DB2/DXT User Notes" for differences in syntax. Control File Contents and Storage Some DDL statements are mandatory. They must define where to find the input data. They must also define the correspondence between the input data and the Oracle database tables or indexes. DDL options are available to describe and manipulate the file data. For example, the instructions can include how to format or filter the data, or how to generate unique ID numbers for a field.A control file can contain the data itself after the DDL statements, as shown in Case 1, or in separate files, as shown in Case 2 on . Detailed information on creating control files using SQL*Loader DDL is given in "Data Definition Language (DDL) Syntax" on page 5-4. Content GuidelinesThe control file is written in free format. That is, statements can continue from line to line with new lines beginning at any word. Uppercase or lowercase is not significant except in strings specified within single or double quotation marks. Comments can be included, prefixed by two hyphens (--). A comment can appear anywhere on a line. SQL*Loader ignores everything from the double hyphens to the end of line.SQL*Loader does not recognize comments in a datafile or in the data portion of the control file. It considers a double dash in those areas to be data. SQL*Loader reserved words (see Appendix A, "SQL*Loader Reserved Words" for a complete list) can serve for database object's names if they are enclosed in single or double quotation marks. Storage How you store the control file depends on how your operating system organizes data. For example, a UNIX environment stores a control file in a file; in MVS environments, the control file can be stored as a member in a partitioned dataset. The control file must be stored where SQL*Loader can read it. Data Definition Language (DDL)SQL*Loader data definition language (DDL) is used to specify how SQL*Loader should map the input data it is loading to the columns of a table in an Oracle database. Chapter 5, "SQL*Loader Control File Reference" details the syntax and semantics of SQL*Loader DDL. DDL statements serve several purposes. Some statements specify input data location or format. Other DDL statements specify which Oracle table to load, mapping of the columns of a table to fields within an input record (field specifications), and specification of the loader input datatype of a field.A single DDL statement comprises one or more keywords and the arguments and options that modify that keyword's functionality. The following example from a control file contains several statements specifying how SQL*Loader is to load the data from an input datafile into a table in an Oracle database:LOAD DATAINFILE. oracle sql loader free download. View, compare, and download oracle sql loader at SourceForge
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Instead of using SQL*Loader Oracle recommends loading data from the Cloud Object Storage for better performance and enhanced functionality.For information on loading from Cloud Object Store, see Load Data from Files in the Cloud. Depending on your workload type, note the following:Data Warehouse: If you use SQL*Loader to load data, note that Autonomous Database does not gather optimizer statistics for your load and you need to gather optimizer statistics manually as explained in Manage Optimizer Statistics on Autonomous Database. Autonomous Database gathers optimizer statistics automatically for tables loaded with direct path operations issued in SQL (direct path load operations that bypass the SQL data processing, such as SQL*Loader direct path, do not collect statistics). Transaction Processing or JSON Database: If you use SQL*Loader to load data, note that Autonomous Database does not gather optimizer statistics for your load and you need to gather optimizer statistics manually as explained in in Manage Optimizer Statistics on Autonomous Database or wait for the automatic statistic gathering task to kick in. For detailed information on SQL*Loader see, Oracle Database Utilities.Difference between sql plus and sql loader
The following situations: You want to load data remotely Transformations are not required on the data, and the data does not need to be loaded in parallel You want to load data, and additional indexing of the staging table is required 7.9.6 Behavior Differences Between SQL*Loader and External Tables Oracle recommends that you review the differences between loading data with external tables, using the ORACLE_LOADER access driver, and loading data with SQL*Loader conventional and direct path loads. The information in this section does not apply to the ORACLE_DATAPUMP access driver. Multiple Primary Input Data FilesIf there are multiple primary input data files with SQL*Loader loads, then a bad file and a discard file are created for each input data file. Syntax and Data TypesThis section provides a description of unsupported syntax and data types with external table loads. Byte-Order MarksWith SQL*Loader, whether the byte-order mark is written depends on the character set or on the table load. Default Character Sets, Date Masks, and Decimal SeparatorThe display of NLS character sets are controlled by different settings for SQL*Loader and external tables. Use of the Backslash Escape CharacterSQL*Loader and external tables use different conventions to identify single quotation marks as an enclosure character. 7.9.6.1 Multiple Primary Input Data Files If there are multiple primary input data files with SQL*Loader loads, then a bad file and a discard file are created for each input data file. With external table loads, there is only one bad file and one discard file for all input data files. If parallel access drivers are used for the external table load, then each access driver has its own bad file and discard file. 7.9.6.2 Syntax and Data Types This section provides a description of unsupported syntax and data types with external table loads. Use of CONTINUEIF or CONCATENATE to combine multiple physical records into a single logical record. Loading of the following SQL*Loader data types: GRAPHIC, GRAPHIC EXTERNAL, and VARGRAPHIC Use of the following database column types: LONG, nested table, VARRAY, REF, primary key REF, and SID 7.9.6.3 Byte-Order Marks With SQL*Loader, whether the byte-order mark is written depends on the character set or on the table load. If a primary data file uses a Unicode character set (UTF8 or UTF16), and it also contains a byte-order mark (BOM), then the byte-order mark is written at the beginning of the corresponding bad and discard files. With external table loads, the byte-order mark is not written at the beginning of the bad and discard files. 7.9.6.4 Default Character Sets, Date Masks, and Decimal Separator The display of NLS character sets are controlled by different settings for SQL*Loader and external tables. With SQL*Loader, the default character set, date mask, and decimal separator are determined by the settings of NLS environment variables on the client. For fields in external tables, the database settings of the NLS parameters determine the default character set, date masks, and decimal separator. 7.9.6.5 Use of the Backslash Escape Character SQL*Loader and external tables use different conventions. oracle sql loader free download. View, compare, and download oracle sql loader at SourceForge sql loader oracle free download. View, compare, and download sql loader oracle at SourceForgesql loader in oracle - Techgoeasy
SQL Loader loads data from external files into tables of an Oracle database. It has a powerful data parsing engine that puts a little limitation on the format of the data in the data file. You can use SQL*Loader to do the following:Load data across a network. This means that you can run the SQL*Loader client on a different system from the one that is running the SQL*Loader server. SQL*Loader FeaturesLoad data from multiple datafiles during the same load session.Load data into multiple tables during the same load session.Specify the character set of the data.Selectively load data (you can load records based on the records’ values).Manipulate the data before loading it, using SQL functions.Generate unique sequential key values in specified columns.Use the operating system’s file system to access the datafiles.Load data from disk, tape, or named pipe.Generate sophisticated error reports, which greatly aid troubleshooting.Load arbitrarily complex object-relational data.Use secondary datafiles for loading LOBs and collections.Use either conventional or direct path loading. While conventional path loading is very flexible, direct path loading provides superior loading performance.sql loader control file:SQL*Loader control file defines the columns to be loaded and instructs the loader to load the data line by line from ldr.csv into the sqlloader table. Each line in loader2.dat holds a comma-separated list of fields to be loaded.Example : Here we will load the data present in ldr.csv into table.[oracle@stagdb ~]$ cat ldr.csvhyderabad,100,telanganavijayawada,200,andhra pradeshwarangal,203,telanganaStep 1: Create a table TEST> create table sqlloader (city varchar2(100), city_code varchar2(100), state varchar2(100));Table created. Step 2: CreateComments
Data. A bind array is an area in memory where SQL*Loader stores data that is to be loaded. When the bind array is full, the data is transmitted to the database. The bind array size is controlled by the SQL*Loader BINDSIZE and READSIZE parameters. The database accepts the data and executes the INSERT statement to store the data in the database. Oracle Database uses the data type of the column to convert the data into its final, stored form. Keep in mind the distinction between a field in a data file and a column in the database. Remember also that the field data types defined in a SQL*Loader control file are not the same as the column data types. 7.7 SQL*Loader Discarded and Rejected Records SQL*Loader can reject or discard some records read from the input file, either because of issues with the files, or because you have selected to filter the records out of the load. Rejected records are placed in a bad file, and discarded records are placed in a discard file. The SQL*Loader Bad FileThe bad file contains records that were rejected, either by SQL*Loader or by Oracle Database. The SQL*Loader Discard FileAs SQL*Loader runs, it can filter some records out of the load, and create a file called the discard file. 7.7.1 The SQL*Loader Bad File The bad file contains records that were rejected, either by SQL*Loader or by Oracle Database. If you do not specify a bad file, and there are rejected records, then SQL*Loader automatically creates one. A rejected record has the same name as the data file, with a .bad extension. There can be several causes for rejections. Records Rejected by SQL*LoaderData file records are rejected by SQL*Loader when the input format is invalid. Records Rejected by Oracle Database During a SQL*Loader OperationAfter a data file record is accepted for processing by SQL*Loader, it is sent to the database for insertion into a table as a row. 7.7.1.1 Records Rejected by SQL*Loader Data file records are rejected by SQL*Loader when the input format is invalid. For example, if the second enclosure delimiter is missing, or if a delimited field exceeds its maximum length, then SQL*Loader rejects the record. Rejected records are placed in the bad file. 7.7.1.2 Records Rejected by Oracle Database During a SQL*Loader Operation After a data file record is accepted for processing by SQL*Loader, it is sent to the database for insertion into a table as a row. If the database determines that the row is valid, then the row is inserted into the table. If the row is determined to be invalid, then the record is rejected and SQL*Loader puts it in the bad file. The row may be invalid, for example, because a key is not unique, because a required field is null, or because the field contains invalid data for the Oracle data type. 7.7.2 The SQL*Loader Discard File As SQL*Loader runs, it can filter some records out of the load, and create a file called the
2025-04-21This chapter explains the basic concepts of loading data into an Oracle database with SQL*Loader. This chapter covers the following topics:SQL*Loader BasicsSQL*Loader Control FileInput Data and DatafilesData Conversion and Datatype SpecificationDiscarded and Rejected RecordsLog File and Logging InformationConventional Path Load versus Direct Path LoadPartitioned Object SupportNote: If you are using Trusted Oracle, see the Trusted Oracle documentation for information about using the SQL*Loader in that environment. SQL*Loader BasicsSQL*Loader loads data from external files into tables in an Oracle database. SQL*Loader has many features of the DB2 Load Utility from IBM, as well as several other features that give it additional power and flexibility. SQL*Loader accepts input data in a variety of formats, can perform filtering (selectively loading records based upon their data values), and can load data into multiple Oracle database tables during the same load session. Figure 3-1 shows the basic components of a SQL*Loader session in operation. Figure 3-1 SQL*Loader Overview SQL*Loader takes a control file as its input, which describes the load to SQL*Loader. The control file also specifies the input datafile(s).As it executes, SQL*Loader produces a log file where it writes information about the load. If records are rejected (typically because of incorrect data), it produces a bad file containing the rejected records. It also may produce a discard file containing records that did not meet the specified selection criteria.SQL*Loader can: Load data from multiple input datafiles of different file types Handle fixed-format, delimited-format, and variable-length records Manipulate data fields with SQL functions before inserting the data into database columnsSupport a wide range of datatypes, including DATE, BINARY, PACKED DECIMAL, and ZONED DECIMALLoad multiple tables during the same run, loading selected rows into each tableCombine multiple physical records into a single logical recordHandle a single physical record as multiple logical records Generate unique, sequential key values in specified columnsUse the operating system's file or record management system to access datafiles Load data from disk, tape, or named pipesThoroughly report errors so you can easily adjust and load all recordsUse high-performance "direct" loads to load data directly into database files without Oracle processing (discussed in Chapter 8, "SQL*Loader: Conventional and Direct Path Loads") SQL*Loader Control FileThe control file, written in SQL*Loader data definition language (DDL), specifies how to interpret the data, what tables and columns to insert the data into, and may also include input datafile management information. The data for SQL*Loader to load into an Oracle database must be in files accessible to SQL*Loader (typically a file in a file system, on tape, or a named pipe, depending on the platform). SQL*Loader requires information about the data to be loaded which provides instructions for mapping the input data to columns of a table. These instructions are written in SQL*Loader DDL, typically by the DBA using the system text editor. Following are some of the items that are specified in the SQL*Loader control file: Specifications for loading logical records into tables Field condition specificationsColumn and field specificationsData-field position specificationsDatatype specificationsBind array size specificationsSpecifications for setting columns to
2025-04-02Learn about the basic concepts you should understand before loading data into an Oracle Database using SQL*Loader. SQL*Loader FeaturesSQL*Loader loads data from external files into Oracle Database tables. SQL*Loader ParametersSQL*Loader is started either when you specify the sqlldr command, or when you specify parameters that establish various characteristics of the load operation. SQL*Loader Control FileThe control file is a text file written in a language that SQL*Loader understands. Input Data and Data Fields in SQL*LoaderLearn how SQL*Loader loads data and identifies record fields. LOBFILEs and Secondary Data Files (SDFs)Large Object (LOB) data can be lengthy enough that it makes sense to load it from a LOBFILE. Data Conversion and Data Type SpecificationDuring a conventional path load, data fields in the data file are converted into columns in the database (direct path loads are conceptually similar, but the implementation is different). SQL*Loader Discarded and Rejected RecordsSQL*Loader can reject or discard some records read from the input file, either because of issues with the files, or because you have selected to filter the records out of the load. Log File and Logging InformationWhen SQL*Loader begins processing, it creates a log file. Conventional Path Loads, Direct Path Loads, and External Table LoadsSQL*Loader provides several methods to load data. Loading Objects, Collections, and LOBs with SQL*LoaderYou can bulk-load the column, row, LOB, and JSON database objects that you need to model real-world entities, such as customers and purchase orders. Partitioned Object Support in SQL*LoaderPartitioned database objects enable you to manage sections of data, either collectively or individually. SQL*Loader supports loading partitioned objects. Application Development: Direct Path Load APIDirect path loads enable you to load data from external files into tables and partitions.Oracle provides a direct path load API for application developers. SQL*Loader Case StudiesTo learn how you can use SQL*Loader features, you can run a variety of case studies that Oracle provides. 7.1 SQL*Loader Features SQL*Loader loads data from external files into Oracle Database tables. SQL*Loader has a powerful data parsing engine that puts few limitations on the format of the data in the data file. You can use SQL*Loader to do the following: Load data across a network, if your data files are on a different system than the database. Load data from multiple data files during the same load session. Load data into multiple tables during the same load session. Specify the character set of the data. Selectively load data (you can load records based on the records' values). Manipulate the data before loading it, using SQL functions. Generate unique sequential key values in specified columns. Use the operating system's file system to access the data files. Load data from disk, tape, or named pipe. Generate sophisticated error reports, which greatly aid troubleshooting. Load arbitrarily complex object-relational data. Use secondary data files for loading Large Objects (LOBs) and collections. Use conventional, direct path, or external table loads. LOBs are used to hold large amounts of data inside Oracle Database. SQL*Loader and external tables use LOBFILEs. Data for a LOB can be very
2025-04-19Large, and not fit in line in a SQL*Loader data file. Also, if the file contains binary data, then it can’t be in line. Instead, the data file has the name of a file containing the data for the LOB field. In that case, SQL*Loader and the external table code open the LOBFILE, and load the contents into the LOB column for the current row. The data is then passed to the server, just as with data for any other column type. JSON columns can be loaded using the same methods used to load scalars and LOBs You can use SQL*Loader in two ways: with or without a control file. A control file controls the behavior of SQL*Loader and one or more data files used in the load. Using a control file gives you more control over the load operation, which might be desirable for more complicated load situations. But for simple loads, you can use SQL*Loader without specifying a control file; this is referred to as SQL*Loader express mode. The output of SQL*Loader is an Oracle Database database (where the data is loaded), a log file, a bad file if there are rejected records, and potentially, a discard file. The following figure shows an example of the flow of a typical SQL*Loader session that uses a control file. 7.2 SQL*Loader Parameters SQL*Loader is started either when you specify the sqlldr command, or when you specify parameters that establish various characteristics of the load operation. In situations where you always use the same parameters for which the values seldom change, it can be more efficient to specify parameters by using the following methods, rather than on the command line: You can group parameters together in a parameter file. You can then specify the name of the parameter file on the command line by using the PARFILE parameter. You can specify some parameters within the SQL*Loader control file by using the OPTIONS clause. Parameters specified on the command line override any parameter values specified in a parameter file or OPTIONS clause. 7.3 SQL*Loader Control File The control file is a text file written in a language that SQL*Loader understands. The control file tells SQL*Loader where to find the data, how to parse and interpret the data, where to insert the data, and more. In general, the control file has three main sections, in the following order: Session-wide information Table and field-list information Input data (optional section) Some control file syntax considerations to keep in mind are: The syntax is free-format (statements can extend over multiple lines). The syntax is case-insensitive; however, strings enclosed in single or double quotation marks are taken literally, including case. In control file syntax, comments extend from the two hyphens (--) that mark the beginning of the comment to the end of the line. The optional third section of the control file is interpreted as data rather than as control file syntax; consequently, comments in this section are not supported. The keywords CONSTANT and ZONE have special
2025-04-20Null or zeroSpecifications for loading all-blank fieldsSpecifications for trimming blanks and tabsSpecifications to preserve white space Specifications for applying SQL operators to fieldsSQL*Loader DDL is upwardly compatible with the DB2 Load Utility from IBM. Normally you can use a control file for the DB2 Load Utility as a control file for SQL*Loader. See Appendix B, "DB2/DXT User Notes" for differences in syntax. Control File Contents and Storage Some DDL statements are mandatory. They must define where to find the input data. They must also define the correspondence between the input data and the Oracle database tables or indexes. DDL options are available to describe and manipulate the file data. For example, the instructions can include how to format or filter the data, or how to generate unique ID numbers for a field.A control file can contain the data itself after the DDL statements, as shown in Case 1, or in separate files, as shown in Case 2 on . Detailed information on creating control files using SQL*Loader DDL is given in "Data Definition Language (DDL) Syntax" on page 5-4. Content GuidelinesThe control file is written in free format. That is, statements can continue from line to line with new lines beginning at any word. Uppercase or lowercase is not significant except in strings specified within single or double quotation marks. Comments can be included, prefixed by two hyphens (--). A comment can appear anywhere on a line. SQL*Loader ignores everything from the double hyphens to the end of line.SQL*Loader does not recognize comments in a datafile or in the data portion of the control file. It considers a double dash in those areas to be data. SQL*Loader reserved words (see Appendix A, "SQL*Loader Reserved Words" for a complete list) can serve for database object's names if they are enclosed in single or double quotation marks. Storage How you store the control file depends on how your operating system organizes data. For example, a UNIX environment stores a control file in a file; in MVS environments, the control file can be stored as a member in a partitioned dataset. The control file must be stored where SQL*Loader can read it. Data Definition Language (DDL)SQL*Loader data definition language (DDL) is used to specify how SQL*Loader should map the input data it is loading to the columns of a table in an Oracle database. Chapter 5, "SQL*Loader Control File Reference" details the syntax and semantics of SQL*Loader DDL. DDL statements serve several purposes. Some statements specify input data location or format. Other DDL statements specify which Oracle table to load, mapping of the columns of a table to fields within an input record (field specifications), and specification of the loader input datatype of a field.A single DDL statement comprises one or more keywords and the arguments and options that modify that keyword's functionality. The following example from a control file contains several statements specifying how SQL*Loader is to load the data from an input datafile into a table in an Oracle database:LOAD DATAINFILE
2025-04-17Instead of using SQL*Loader Oracle recommends loading data from the Cloud Object Storage for better performance and enhanced functionality.For information on loading from Cloud Object Store, see Load Data from Files in the Cloud. Depending on your workload type, note the following:Data Warehouse: If you use SQL*Loader to load data, note that Autonomous Database does not gather optimizer statistics for your load and you need to gather optimizer statistics manually as explained in Manage Optimizer Statistics on Autonomous Database. Autonomous Database gathers optimizer statistics automatically for tables loaded with direct path operations issued in SQL (direct path load operations that bypass the SQL data processing, such as SQL*Loader direct path, do not collect statistics). Transaction Processing or JSON Database: If you use SQL*Loader to load data, note that Autonomous Database does not gather optimizer statistics for your load and you need to gather optimizer statistics manually as explained in in Manage Optimizer Statistics on Autonomous Database or wait for the automatic statistic gathering task to kick in. For detailed information on SQL*Loader see, Oracle Database Utilities.
2025-04-20