If you are new to geodatabases or want to learn more, the following topics provide a good conceptual overview to get you started.
| Help contents | Notes |
|---|---|
An overview of the geodatabase | The topics in this section of the help describe the fundamental contents for every geodatabase: tables, features, and rasters. Start with the topic named Table basics and read all the following topics in this help section. |
The architecture of the geodatabase | The architecture of a geodatabase explains the geodatabase storage model and how it leverages relational database technology. This information is not required to use the geodatabase. It provides good background information for the geodatabase and how you can leverage it in your daily use. |
Designing a geodatabase | This is a practical overview on design and a simple procedure you can follow to help you build your geodatabase. |
Feature class design | This feature class design topic helps to explain why you would extend a feature class with additional capabilities (such as a topology, network, or terrain) and points you to more information on implementation. |
Building a geodatabase | Get started by creating a new geodatabase. These two topics are useful here: |
Adding datasets to your geodatabase | To begin populating the contents of your geodatabase, see An overview of adding datasets to the geodatabase. |
Adding advanced data elements to your geodatabase | When you want to progress further—for example, to add a topology, geometric network, geocoding locator, or annotation—refer to the Data Types section of the help. |
Geodatabase versioning and replication | When you want to work with multiuser geodatabases and distribute copies of your geodatabase across (and even outside) your organization, you can use versioning and replication. |
Using SQL to access and work with the geodatabase | These topics cover the SQL interface to spatial types managed in enterprise geodatabases. The SQL interface is supported for Informix, DB2, Oracle, PostgreSQL, and SQL Server. See Geodatabase access using SQL. |
Administering enterprise geodatabases | Installing, configuring, maintaining, and tuning enterprise geodatabases are covered in the Administering geodatabases topics. |