What are BFCs batch processing facilities?
Unlike most database systems, BFC can create and change large batches of records without disrupting normal operations. But in addition, BFC offers a unique batch processing capability for performing long-running jobs by putting idle computers to work. An international bank, for example, needing to provide securities inventory reports to its worldwide branches, could use a dozen idle computers to download volatile price information from their accounting system every night. It’s easy to create batch functions and scheduling rules, specify the hardware characteristics of PCs doing the work, and log task execution milestones. Any desktop computer with a BFC application installed on it qualifies as a batch machine. The operator just walks over and logs in as a batch user, and the machine starts polling the database looking for work.
