This section describes the primary database issues and considerations specific to the SQL Anywhere data server in a Sybase replication system.
SQL Anywhere is a different relational database than Sybase Adaptive Server Enterprise, which is the original primary data server supported by Replication Server. Adaptive Server Enterprise is designed specifically for high-performance OLTP (online transaction processing) and mixed workload enterprise computing. By contrast, SQL Anywhere is designed for the following applications:
Embedded database
Many applications (personal information managers, document management systems—nearly any application that stores information) require a database “behind the scenes.” SQL Anywhere is intended to be the database for these applications. The UltraLite deployment option is intended for embedded environments that have limited resources.
Mobile computing
With its SQL Remote replication, SQL Anywhere extends transaction-based computing throughout the enterprise. The UltraLite deployment option and MobiLink synchronization technology provide full database functionality on devices with limited resources.
Workgroup server
Workgroups ranging in size from a few people to a few hundred people in an organization may require a data server that they can share. SQL Anywhere is a multiuser server that can provide a high-performance database for workgroups, well-suited for (but not limited to) environments where administration and hardware resources are limited.