Mobile database architecture typically involves three main components: the mobile client, the synchronization middleware, and the central server. The mobile client hosts the embedded database that operates locally and manages data input/output.
The synchronization middleware handles communication between the client and server, coordinating data exchange and conflict resolution. The central server maintains the master copy of data, applying changes from multiple clients.
This layered approach allows mobile applications to function efficiently mobile database offline while ensuring consistency across devices when connected. Architectures may vary depending on application needs, with some systems using peer-to-peer synchronization to allow devices to share data directly without a central server.
Data Replication Techniques
Data replication is essential for maintaining data availability in mobile databases. It involves copying data from the central server to mobile devices and vice versa. Replication techniques include snapshot replication, where a complete copy of the data is transferred at once, and incremental replication, where only changes since the last sync are transmitted.
Incremental replication conserves bandwidth and reduces sync time, which is crucial for mobile environments. Other approaches include asynchronous replication, allowing users to continue working offline, and synchronous replication, requiring real-time data consistency. The choice of replication technique depends on application requirements like latency tolerance, data volume, and user experience expectations.