System Tables

The master database contains system tables that keep track of information about SAP ASE. In addition, each database (including the master database) contains system tables that keep track of information that is specific to that database.

All the SAP ASE-supplied tables in the master database (the SAP ASE controlling database) are considered system tables. Each user database is created with a subset of these system tables. The system tables may also be called the data dictionary or the system catalogs.

A master database and its tables are automatically created when SAP ASE is installed. The system tables in a user database are created when the create database command is issued. The names of all system tables start with “sys”. You cannot create tables in user databases that have the same names as system tables. See Reference Manual: Tables for detailed descriptions of system tables and their columns.

• Querying the System Tables
  Query system tables in the same manner as any other tables.
• Keys in System Tables
  Primary, foreign, and common keys for system tables are defined in the master and model databases. You can generate a report on defined keys by executing sp_helpkey. For a report on columns in two system tables that are likely join candidates, execute sp_helpjoins..
• Updating System Tables
  The SAP ASE system tables contain information that is critical to the operation of your databases. Under ordinary circumstances, you need not perform direct data modifications to system tables.