51881801 informatica-faq

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1.Informatica - Why we use lookup transformations?
QUESTION #1 Lookup Transformations can access data from relational tables
that are not sources in mapping. With Lookup transformation, we can
accomplish the following tasks:
Get a related value-Get the Employee Name from Employee table based on the Employee
IDPerform Calculation.
Update slowly changing dimension tables - We can use unconnected lookup transformation to
determine whether the records already exist in the target or not.
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January 19, 2006 01:12:33 #1
sithusithu Member Since: December 2005 Contribution: 161
RE: Why we use lookup transformations?
=======================================
Nice Question If we don't have a look our datawarehouse will be have more unwanted duplicates
Use a Lookup transformation in your mapping to look up data in a relational table view or synonym.
Import a lookup definition from any relational database to which both the Informatica Client and Server
can connect. You can use multiple Lookup transformations in a mapping
Cheers
Sithu
file:///C|/Perl/bin/result.html (1 of 363)4/1/2009 7:50:58 PM

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Lookup Transformations used to search data from relational tables/FLAT Files that are not used in
mapping.
Types of Lookup:
1. Connected Lookup
2. UnConnected Lookup
=======================================
The main use of lookup is to get a related value either from a relational sources or flat files
=======================================
The following reasons for using lookups.....
1)We use Lookup transformations that query the largest amounts of data to
improve overall performance. By doing that we can reduce the number of lookups
on the same table.
2)If a mapping contains Lookup transformations we will enable lookup caching
if this option is not enabled .
We will use a persistent cache to improve performance of the lookup whenever
possible.
We will explore the possibility of using concurrent caches to improve session
performance.
We will use the Lookup SQL Override option to add a WHERE clause to the default
SQL statement if it is not defined
We will add ORDER BY clause in lookup SQL statement if there is no order by
defined.
We will use SQL override to suppress the default ORDER BY statement and enter an
override ORDER BY with fewer columns. Indexing the Lookup Table
We can improve performance for the following types of lookups:
For cached lookups we will index the lookup table using the columns in the
lookup ORDER BY statement.
For Un-cached lookups we will Index the lookup table using the columns in the
lookup where condition.

3)In some cases we use lookup instead of Joiner as lookup is faster than
joiner in some cases when lookup contains the master data only.
4)This lookup helps in terms of performance tuning of the mappings also.
=======================================
Look up Transformation is like a set of Reference for the traget table.For example suppose you are
travelling by an auto ricksha..In the morning you notice that the auto driver showing you some card and
saying that today onwards there is a hike in petrol.so you have to pay more. So the card which he is
showing is a set of reference for there costumer..In the same way the lookup transformation works.
These are of 2 types :
a) Connected Lookup
b) Un-connected lookup
Connected lookup is connected in a single pipeline from a source to a target where as Un Connected
Lookup is isolated with in the mapping and is called with the help of a Expression Transformation.
=======================================
Look up tranformations are used to
Get a related value
Updating slowly changing dimension
Caluculating expressions
=======================================
2.Informatica - While importing the relational source definition
from database, what are the meta data of source U i
QUESTION #2 Source name
Database location
Column names
Datatypes
Key constraints

September 28, 2006 06:30:08 #1
srinvas vadlakonda
RE: While importing the relational source defintion fr...
=======================================
source name data types key constraints database location
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Relational sources are tables views synonyms. Source name Database location Column name Datatype
Key Constraints. For synonyms you will have to manually create the constraints.
=======================================
3.Informatica - How many ways you can update a relational
source defintion and what r they?
QUESTION #3 Two ways
1. Edit the definition
2. Reimport the defintion
January 30, 2006 04:59:06 #1
gazulas Member Since: January 2006 Contribution: 17
RE: How many ways you can update a relational source d...
=======================================
in 2 ways we can do it
1) by reimport the source definition
2) by edit the source definition
=======================================
4.Informatica - Where should U place the flat file to import the

flat file defintion to the designer?
QUESTION #4 Place it in local folder
December 13, 2005 08:42:59 #1
rishi
RE: Where should U place the flat file to import the f...
=======================================
There is no such restrication to place the source file. In performance point of view its better to place the
file in server local src folder. if you need path please check the server properties availble at workflow
manager.
It doesn't mean we should not place in any other folder if we place in server src folder by default src
will be selected at time session creation.
=======================================
file must be in a directory local to the client machine.
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Basically the flat file should be stored in the src folder in the informatica server folder.
Now logically it should pick up the file from any location but it gives an error of invalid identifier or
not able to read the first row.
So its better to keep the file in the src folder.which is already created when the informatica is installed
=======================================
We can place source file any where in network but it will consume more time to fetch data from source
file but if the source file is present on server srcfile then it will fetch data from source upto 25 times
faster than previous.
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5.Informatica - To provide support for Mainframes source data,
which files r used as a source definitions?
QUESTION #5 COBOL files

October 07, 2005 11:49:42 #1
Shaks Krishnamurthy
RE: To provide support for Mainframes source data,whic...
=======================================
COBOL Copy-book files
=======================================
The mainframe files are Used as VSAM files in Informatica by using the Normaliser transformation
=======================================
6.Informatica - Which transformation should u need while using
the cobol sources as source defintions?
QUESTION #6 Normalizer transformaiton which is used to normalize the data.
Since cobol sources r oftenly consists of Denormailzed data.
Submitted by: sithusithu
Normalizer transformaiton
Cheers,
Sithu
Above answer was rated as good by the following members:
ramonasiraj
=======================================
Normalizer transformaiton
Cheers
Sithu

=======================================
Normalizer transformaiton which is used to normalize the data
=======================================
7.Informatica - How can U create or import flat file definition in
to the warehouse designer?
QUESTION #7 U can not create or import flat file defintion in to warehouse
designer directly.Instead U must analyze the file in source analyzer,then drag it
into the warehouse designer.When U drag the flat file source defintion into
warehouse desginer workspace,the warehouse designer creates a relational target
defintion not a file defintion.If u want to load to a file,configure the session to
write to a flat file.When the informatica server runs the session,it creates and
loads the flatfile.
August 22, 2005 03:23:12 #1
Praveen
RE: How can U create or import flat file definition in to the warehouse designer?
=======================================
U can create flat file definition in warehouse designer.in the warehouse designer u can create new
target: select the type as flat file. save it and u can enter various columns for that created target by
editing its properties.Once the target is created save it. u can import it from the mapping designer.
=======================================
Yes you can import flat file directly into Warehouse designer. This way it will import the field
definitions directly.
=======================================
1) Manually create the flat file target definition in warehouse designer
2)create target definition from a source definition. This is done my dropping a source definition in
warehouse designer.
3)Import flat file definitionusing a flat file wizard. ( file must be local to the client machine)
=======================================
While creating flatfiles manually we drag and drop the structure from SQ if the structure we need is the
same as of source for this we need to check-in the source and then drag and drop it into the Flatfile if

not all the columns in the source will be changed as primary keys.
=======================================
8.Informatica - What is the maplet?
QUESTION #8 Maplet is a set of transformations that you build in the maplet
designer and U can use in multiple mapings.
December 08, 2005 23:38:47 #1
phani
RE: What is the maplet?
=======================================
For Ex:Suppose we have several fact tables that require a series of dimension keys.Then we can create a
mapplet which contains a series of Lkp transformations to find each dimension key and use it in each
fact table mapping instead of creating the same Lkp logic in each mapping.
=======================================
Part(sub set) of the Mapping is known as Mapplet
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Set of transforamations where the logic can be reusble
=======================================
A mapplet should have a mapplet input transformation which recives input values and a output
transformation which passes the final modified data to back to the mapping.
when the mapplet is displayed with in the mapping only input & output ports are displayed so that the
internal logic is hidden from end-user point of view.
=======================================

Reusable mapping is known as mapplet & reusable transformation with mapplet
=======================================
Maplet is a reusable business logic which can be used in mappings
=======================================
A maplet is a reusable object which contains one or more than one transformation which is used to
populate the data from source to target based on the business logic and we can use the same logic in
different mappings without creating the mapping again.
=======================================
Mapplet Is In Mapplet Designer It is used to create Mapplets.
=======================================
A mapplet is a reusable object that represents a set of transformations. Mapplet can be designed using
mapping designer in informatica power center
=======================================
Basically mapplet is a subset of the mapping in which we can have the information of the each
dimension keys by keeping the different mappings created individually. If we want a series of
dimension keys in the final fact table we will use mapping designer.
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9.Informatica - what is a transforamation?
QUESTION #9 It is a repostitory object that generates,modifies or passes data.
November 23, 2005 16:06:23 #1
sir
RE: what is a transforamation?
=======================================
a transformation is repository object that pass data to the next stage(i.e to the next transformation or
target) with/with out modifying the data
=======================================
It is a process of converting given input to desired output.
=======================================
set of operation
Cheers
Sithu

=======================================
Transformation is a repository object of converting a given input to desired output.It can generates
modifies and passes the data.
=======================================
A TransFormation Is a Repository Object.
That Generates Modifies or Passes Data.
The Designer Provides a Set of Transformations That perform Specific Functions.
For Example An AGGREGATOR Transformation Performs Calculations On Groups Of Data.
=======================================
10.Informatica - What r the designer tools for creating
tranformations?
QUESTION #10 Mapping designer
Tansformation developer
Mapplet designer
February 21, 2007 05:29:40 #1
MANOJ KUMAR PANIGRAHI
RE: What r the designer tools for creating tranformati...
=======================================
There r 2 type of tool r used 4 creating transformation......just like
Mapping designer
Mapplet designer
=======================================
Mapping Designer
Maplet Designer
Transformation Deveoper - for reusable transformation
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11.Informatica - What r the active and passive transforamtions?
QUESTION #11 An active transforamtion can change the number of rows that

pass through it.A passive transformation does not change the number of rows
that pass through it.
January 24, 2006 03:32:14 #1
RE: What r the active and passive transforamtions?
=======================================
Transformations can be active or passive. An active transformation can change the number of rows that
pass through it such as a Filter transformation that removes rows that do not meet the filter condition.
A passive transformation does not change the number of rows that pass through it such as an
Expression transformation that performs a calculation on data and passes all rows through the
transformation.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Active Transformation : A Transformation which change the number of rows when data is flowing from
source to target
Passive Transformation : A transformation which does not change the number of rows when the data is
flowing from source to target
=======================================
12.Informatica - What r the connected or unconnected
transforamations?
QUESTION #12 An unconnected transforamtion is not connected to other
transformations in the mapping.Connected transforamation is connected to
other transforamtions in the mapping.

August 22, 2005 03:26:32 #1
Praveen
RE: What r the connected or unconnected transforamations?
=======================================
An unconnected transformation cant be connected to another transformation. but it can be called inside
another transformation.
=======================================
Here is the deal
Connected transformation is a part of your data flow in the pipeline while unconnected Transformation
is not.
much like calling a program by name and by reference.
use unconnected transforms when you wanna call the same transform many times in a single mapping.
=======================================
In addition to first answer uncondition transformation are directly connected and can/used in as many as
other transformations. If you are using a transformation several times use unconditional. You get better
performance.
=======================================
Connect Transformation :
A transformation which participates in the mapping data flow
Connected
transformation can receive multiple inputs and provides multiple outputs
Unconnected :
A unconnected transformation does not participate in the mapping data flow
It can receive multiple inputs and provides single output

Thanks
Rekha
=======================================
13.Informatica - How many ways u create ports?
QUESTION #13 Two ways
1.Drag the port from another transforamtion
2.Click the add buttion on the ports tab.
September 28, 2006 06:31:21 #1
srinivas.vadlakonda
RE: How many ways u create ports?
=======================================
Two ways
1.Drag the port from another transforamtion
2.Click the add buttion on the ports tab.
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we can copy and paste the ports in the ports tab
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14.Informatica - What r the reusable transforamtions?
QUESTION #14 Reusable transformations can be used in multiple mappings.
When u need to incorporate this transformation into maping,U add an instance
of it to maping.Later if U change the definition of the transformation ,all
instances of it inherit the changes.Since the instance of reusable transforamation
is a pointer to that transforamtion,U can change the transforamation in the
transformation developer,its instances automatically reflect these changes.This
feature can save U great deal of work.

A transformation can reused, that is know as reusable transformation
You can design using 2 methods
1. using transformation developer
2. create normal one and promote it to reusable
Cheers
Sithu
ramonasiraj
=======================================
A transformation can reused that is know as reusable transformation
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Hai to all friends out there
the transformation that can be reused is called a reusable transformation.
as the property suggests it has to be reused:
so for reusing we can do it in two different ways
1) by creating normal transformation and making it reusable by checking it in the check box of the
properties of the edit transformation.
2) by using transformation developer here what ever transformation is developed it is reusable and it
can be used in mapping designer where we can further change its properties as per our requirement.

=======================================
1. A reusable transformation can be used in multiple transformations
2.The designer stores each reusable transformation as metada separate from
any mappings that use the transformation.
3. Every reusable transformation falls within a category of transformations available in the Designer
4.one can only create an External Procedure transformation as a reusable transformation.
=======================================
15.Informatica - What r the methods for creating reusable
transforamtions?
QUESTION #15 Two methods
1.Design it in the transformation developer.
2.Promote a standard transformation from the mapping designer.After U add a
transformation to the mapping , U can promote it to the status of reusable
transformation.
Once U promote a standard transformation to reusable status,U can demote it to
a standard transformation at any time.
If u change the properties of a reusable transformation in mapping,U can revert
it to the original reusable transformation properties by clicking the revert
button.
September 12, 2005 12:22:21 #1
Praveen Vasudev
RE: methods for creating reusable transforamtions?

=======================================
PLEASE THINK TWICE BEFORE YOU POST AN ANSWER.
Answer: Two methods
1.Design it in the transformation developer. by default its a reusable transform.
2.Promote a standard transformation from the mapping designer.After U add a transformation to the
mapping U can promote it to the status of reusable transformation.
Once U promote a standard transformation to reusable status U CANNOT demote it to a standard
transformation at any time.
If u change the properties of a reusable transformation in mapping U can revert it to the original
reusable transformation properties by clicking the revert button.
=======================================
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
16.Informatica - What r the unsupported repository objects for a
mapplet?
QUESTION #16 COBOL source definition
Joiner transformations
Normalizer transformations
Non reusable sequence generator transformations.
Pre or post session stored procedures
Target defintions
Power mart 3.5 style Look Up functions
XML source definitions
IBM MQ source defintions

January 19, 2006 04:23:12 #1
RE: What r the unsupported repository objects for a ma...
=======================================
l Source definitions. Definitions of database objects (tables views synonyms) or files that provide
source data.
l Target definitions. Definitions of database objects or files that contain the target data.
l Multi-dimensional metadata. Target definitions that are configured as cubes and dimensions.
l Mappings. A set of source and target definitions along with transformations containing business
logic that you build into the transformation. These are the instructions that the Informatica Server uses
to transform and move data.
l Reusable transformations. Transformations that you can use in multiple mappings.
l Mapplets. A set of transformations that you can use in multiple mappings.
l Sessions and workflows. Sessions and workflows store information about how and when the
Informatica Server moves data. A workflow is a set of instructions that describes how and when to run
tasks related to extracting transforming and loading data. A session is a type of task that you can put in
a workflow. Each session corresponds to a single mapping.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Hi
The following answer is from Informatica Help Documnetation
l You cannot include the following objects in a mapplet:
l Normalizer transformations
l Cobol sources
l XML Source Qualifier transformations
l XML sources

l Target definitions
l Pre- and post- session stored procedures
l Other mapplets
Shivaji Thaneru
=======================================
normaliser xml source qualifier and cobol sources cannot be used
=======================================
-Normalizer transformations
-Cobol sources
-XML Source Qualifier transformations
-XML sources
-Target definitions
-Pre- and post- session stored procedures
-Other mapplets
-PowerMart 3.5-style LOOKUP functions
-non reusable sequence generator
=======================================
17.Informatica - What r the mapping paramaters and maping
variables?
QUESTION #17 Maping parameter represents a constant value that U can define
before running a session.A mapping parameter retains the same value throughout
the entire session.
When u use the maping parameter ,U declare and use the parameter in a maping
or maplet.Then define the value of parameter in a parameter file for the session.
Unlike a mapping parameter,a maping variable represents a value that can
change throughout the session.The informatica server saves the value of maping
variable to the repository at the end of session run and uses that value next time
U run the session.
September 12, 2005 12:30:13 #1
Praveen Vasudev

RE: mapping varibles
=======================================
Please refer to the documentation for more understanding.
Mapping variables have two identities:
Start value and Current value
Start value Current value ( when the session starts the execution of the undelying mapping)
Start value <> Current value ( while the session is in progress and the variable value changes in one
ore more occasions)
Current value at the end of the session is nothing but the start value for the subsequent run of the
same session.
=======================================
You can use mapping parameters and variables in the SQL query user-defined join and source filter of a
Source Qualifier transformation. You can also use the system variable $$$SessStartTime.
The Informatica Server first generates an SQL query and scans the query to replace each mapping
parameter or variable with its start value. Then it executes the query on the source database.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Mapping parameter represents a constant value defined before mapping run.
Mapping reusability can be achieved by using mapping parameters.

Mapping variable represents a value that can be changed during the mapping run.
Mapping variable can be used in incremental loading process.
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18.Informatica - Can U use the maping parameters or variables
created in one maping into another maping?
QUESTION #18 NO.
We can use mapping parameters or variables in any transformation of the same
maping or mapplet in which U have created maping parameters or variables.
Submitted by: Ray
NO. You might want to use a workflow parameter/variable if you want it to be visible with other
mappings/sessions
ramonasiraj
=======================================
NO. You might want to use a workflow parameter/variable if you want it to be visible with other
mappings/sessions
=======================================
Hi
The following sentences extracted from Informatica help as it is.Did it support the above to answers.
After you create a parameter you can use it in the Expression Editor of any transformation in a mapping
or mapplet. You can also use it in Source Qualifier transformations and reusable transformations.
Shivaji Thaneru
=======================================
I differ on this; we can use global variable in sessions as well as in mappings. This provision is
provided in Informatica 7.1.x versions; I have used it. Please check this in properties.
Regards
-Vaibhav
=======================================
hi

Thanx Shivaji but the statement does not completely answer the question.
a mapping parameter can be used in reusable transformation
but does it mean u can use the mapping parameter whereever the instances of the reusable
transformation are used?
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The scope of a mapping variable is the mapping in which it is defined. A variable Var1 defined in
mapping Map1 can only be used in Map1. You cannot use it in another mapping say Map2.
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19.Informatica - Can u use the maping parameters or variables
created in one maping into any other reusable transform
QUESTION #19 Yes.Because reusable tranformation is not contained with any
maplet or maping.
February 02, 2007 17:06:04 #1
mahesh4346 Member Since: January 2007 Contribution: 6
RE: Can u use the maping parameters or variables creat...
=======================================
But when one cant use Mapping parameters and variables of one mapping in another Mapping then how
can that be used in reusable transformation when Reusable transformations themselves can be used
among multiple mappings?So I think one cant use Mapping parameters and variables in reusable
transformationsPlease correct me if i am wrong
=======================================
Hi you can use the mapping parameters or variables in a reusable transformation. And when you use the
xformation in a mapping during execution of the session it validates if the mapping parameter that is
used in the xformation is defined with this mapping or not. If not the session fails.
=======================================
20.Informatica - How can U improve session performance in
aggregator transformation?
QUESTION #20 Use sorted input.

September 12, 2005 12:34:09 #1
Praveen Vasudev
RE:
=======================================
use sorted input:
1. use a sorter before the aggregator
2. donot forget to check the option on the aggregator that tell the aggregator that the input is sorted on
the same keys as group by.
the key order is also very important.
=======================================
hi
You can use the following guidelines to optimize the performance of an Aggregator transformation.
Use sorted input to decrease the use of aggregate caches.
Sorted input reduces the amount of data cached during the session and improves session performance.
Use this option with the Sorter transformation to pass sorted data to the Aggregator transformation.
Limit connected input/output or output ports.
Limit the number of connected input/output or output ports to reduce the amount of data the Aggregator
transformation stores in the data cache.
Filter before aggregating.

If you use a Filter transformation in the mapping place the transformation before the Aggregator
transformation to reduce unnecessary aggregation.
Shivaji T
=======================================
Following are the 3 ways with which we can improve the session performance:-
a) Use sorted input to decrease the use of aggregate caches.
b) Limit connected input/output or output ports
c) Filter before aggregating (if you are using any filter condition)
=======================================
By using Incrimental aggrigation also we can improve performence.Becaue it passes the new data to the
mapping and uses historical data to perform aggrigation
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to improve session performance in aggregator transformation enable the session option Incremental
Aggregation
=======================================
-Use sorted input to decrease the use of aggregate caches.
-Limit connected input/output or output ports.
Limit the number of connected input/output or output ports to reduce the amount of data the Aggregator
transformation stores in the data cache.
-Filter the data before aggregating it.
=======================================
21.Informatica - What is aggregate cache in aggregator
transforamtion?
QUESTION #21 The aggregator stores data in the aggregate cache until it
completes aggregate calculations.When u run a session that uses an aggregator
transformation,the informatica server creates index and data caches in memory
to process the transformation.If the informatica server requires more space,it
stores overflow values in cache files.

January 19, 2006 05:00:00 #1
RE: What is aggregate cache in aggregator transforamti...
=======================================
When you run a workflow that uses an Aggregator transformation the Informatica Server creates index
and data caches in memory to process the transformation. If the Informatica Server requires more space
it stores overflow values in cache files.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Aggregate cache contains data values while aggregate calculations are being performed. Aggregate
cache is made up of index cache and data cache. Index cache contains group values and data cache
consists of row values.
=======================================
when server runs the session with aggregate transformation it stores data in memory until it completes
the aggregation
when u partition a source the server creates one memory cache and one disk cache for each partition .it
routes the data from one partition to another based on group key values of the transformation
=======================================
22.Informatica - What r the diffrence between joiner
transformation and source qualifier transformation?
QUESTION #22 U can join hetrogenious data sources in joiner transformation
which we can not achieve in source qualifier transformation.
U need matching keys to join two relational sources in source qualifier
transformation.Where as u doesn’t need matching keys to join two sources.
Two relational sources should come from same datasource in sourcequalifier.U
can join relatinal sources which r coming from diffrent sources also.

January 27, 2006 01:45:56 #1
RE: What r the diffrence between joiner transformation...
=======================================
Source qualifier Homogeneous source
Joiner Heterogeneous source
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Hi
The Source Qualifier transformation provides an alternate way to filter rows. Rather than filtering rows
from within a mapping the Source Qualifier transformation filters rows when read from a source. The
main difference is that the source qualifier limits the row set extracted from a source while the Filter
transformation limits the row set sent to a target. Since a source qualifier reduces the number of rows
used throughout the mapping it provides better performance.
However the Source Qualifier transformation only lets you filter rows from relational sources while the
Filter transformation filters rows from any type of source. Also note that since it runs in the database
you must make sure that the filter condition in the Source Qualifier transformation only uses standard
SQL.
Shivaji Thaneru
=======================================
hi as per my knowledge you need matching keys to join two relational sources both in Source qualifier
as well as in Joiner transformation. But the difference is that in Source qualifier both the keys must have
primary key - foreign key relation Whereas in Joiner transformation its not needed.

=======================================
source qualifier is used for reading the data from the database where as joiner transformation is used for
joining two data tables.
source qualifier can also be used to join two tables but the condition is that both the table should be
from relational database and it should have the primary key with the same data structure.
using joiner we can join data from two heterogeneous sources like two flat files or one file from
relational and one file from flat.
=======================================
23.Informatica - In which condtions we can not use joiner
transformation(Limitaions of joiner transformation)?
QUESTION #23 Both pipelines begin with the same original data source.
Both input pipelines originate from the same Source Qualifier transformation.
Both input pipelines originate from the same Normalizer transformation.
Both input pipelines originate from the same Joiner transformation.
Either input pipelines contains an Update Strategy transformation.
Either input pipelines contains a connected or unconnected Sequence Generator
transformation.
January 25, 2006 12:18:35 #1
Surendra
RE: In which condtions we can not use joiner transform...
=======================================
This is no longer valid in version 7.2
Now we can use a joiner even if the data is coming from the same source.
SK
=======================================
You cannot use a Joiner transformation in the following situations(according to infa 7.1):

©Either input pipeline contains an Update Strategy transformation.
©You connect a Sequence Generator transformation directly before the Joiner
transformation.
=======================================
I don't understand the second one which says we have a sequence generator? Please can you explain on
that one?
=======================================
Can you please let me know the correct and clear answer for Limitations of joiner transformation?
swapna
=======================================
You cannot use a Joiner transformation in the following situations(according to infa 7.1): When You
connect a Sequence Generator transformation directly before the Joiner transformation.
for more information check out the informatica manual7.1
=======================================
What about join conditions. Can we have a ! condition in joiner.
=======================================
No in a joiner transformation you can only use an equal to ( ) as a join condition
Any other sort of comparison operators is not allowed
> < ! <> etc are not allowed as a join condition
Utsav
=======================================
Yes joiner only supports equality condition
The Joiner transformation does not match null values. For example if both EMP_ID1 and EMP_ID2
from the example above contain a row with a null value the PowerCenter Server does not consider them
a match and does not join the two rows. To join rows with null values you can replace null input with
default values and then join on the default values.
=======================================
We cannot use joiner transformation in the following two conditions:-
1. When our data comes through Update Strategy transformation or in other words after Update strategy
we cannot add joiner transformation
2. We cannot connect a Sequence Generator transformation directly before the Joiner transformation.
=======================================
24.Informatica - what r the settiings that u use to cofigure the
joiner transformation?

QUESTION #24 Master and detail source
Type of join
Condition of the join
l Master and detail source
l Type of join
l Condition of the join
the Joiner transformation supports the following join types, which you set in the Properties tab:
l Normal (Default)
l Master Outer
l Detail Outer
l Full Outer
Cheers,
Sithu
vivek1708
=======================================
l Master and detail source
l Type of join
l Condition of the join
the Joiner transformation supports the following join types which you set in the Properties tab:
l Normal (Default)
l Master Outer
l Detail Outer
l Full Outer

Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
There are number of properties that you use to configure a joiner
transformation are:
1) CASE SENSITIVE STRING COMPARISON: To join the string based on the case
sensitive basis.
2) WORKING DIRECTORY: Where to create the caches.
3) JOIN CONDITION : Like join on a.s v.n
4) JOIN TYPE: (Normal or master or detail or full)
5) NULL ORDERING IN MASTER
6) NULL ORDERING IN DETAIL
7) TRACING LEVEL: Level of detail about the operations.
8) INDEX CACHE: Store group value of the input if any.
9) DATA CACHE: Store value of each row of data.
10) SORTED INPUT: Check box will be there and will have to check it if the
input to the joiner is sorted.

11) TRANSFORMATION SCOPE: The data to taken into consideration. (transcation
or all input) transaction if it depends only on the processed rows while look up
if it depends on other data when it processes a row. Ex-joiner using the same
source in the pipeline so data is within the scope so transaction. using a
lookup so it depends on other data or if dynamic cache is enabled it has to
process on the other incoming data so will have to go for all input.
=======================================
25.Informatica - What r the join types in joiner transformation?
QUESTION #25 Normal (Default)
Master outer
Detail outer
Full outer
September 12, 2005 12:38:39 #1
Praveen Vasudev
RE:
=======================================
Normal (Default) -- only matching rows from both master and detail
Master outer -- all detail rows and only matching rows from master
Detail outer -- all master rows and only matching rows from detail
Full outer -- all rows from both master and detail ( matching or non matching)
=======================================
follw this
1. In the Mapping Designer choose Transformation-Create. Select the Joiner transformation. Enter
a name click OK.
The naming convention for Joiner transformations is JNR_TransformationName. Enter a description for
the transformation. This description appears in the Repository Manager making it easier for you or
others to understand or remember what the transformation does.

The Designer creates the Joiner transformation. Keep in mind that you cannot use a Sequence Generator
or Update Strategy transformation as a source to a Joiner transformation.
1. Drag all the desired input/output ports from the first source into the Joiner transformation.
The Designer creates input/output ports for the source fields in the Joiner as detail fields by default.
You can edit this property later.
1. Select and drag all the desired input/output ports from the second source into the Joiner
transformation.
The Designer configures the second set of source fields and master fields by default.
1. Double-click the title bar of the Joiner transformation to open the Edit Transformations dialog
box.
1. Select the Ports tab.
1. Click any box in the M column to switch the master/detail relationship for the sources. Change
the master/detail relationship if necessary by selecting the master source in the M column.
Tip: Designating the source with fewer unique records as master increases performance during a join.
1. Add default values for specific ports as necessary.
Certain ports are likely to contain NULL values since the fields in one of the sources may be empty.
You can specify a default value if the target database does not handle NULLs.
1. Select the Condition tab and set the condition.
1. Click the Add button to add a condition. You can add multiple conditions. The master and detail
ports must have matching datatypes. The Joiner transformation only supports equivalent ( ) joins:
10. Select the Properties tab and enter any additional settings for the transformations.
1. Click OK.
1. Choose Repository-Save to save changes to the mapping.
Cheers

Sithu
=======================================
26.Informatica - What r the joiner caches?
QUESTION #26 When a Joiner transformation occurs in a session, the
Informatica Server reads all the records from the master source and builds index
and data caches based on the master rows.
After building the caches, the Joiner transformation reads records from the detail
source and perform joins.
Submitted by: bneha15
For version 7.x and above :
When the PowerCenter Server processes a Joiner transformation, it reads rows from both sources
concurrently and builds the index and data cache based on the master rows. The PowerCenter Server
then performs the join based on the detail source data and the cache data. To improve performance for
an unsorted Joiner transformation, use the source with fewer rows as the master source. To improve
performance for a sorted Joiner transformation, use the source with fewer duplicate key values as the
master.
vivek1708
=======================================
From a performance perspective.always makes the smaller of the two joining tables to be the master.
=======================================
Specifies the directory used to cache master records and the index to these records. By default the
cached files are created in a directory specified by the server variable $PMCacheDir. If you override the
directory make sure the directory exists and contains enough disk space for the cache files. The
directory can be a mapped or mounted drive.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
For version 7.x and above :
When the PowerCenter Server processes a Joiner transformation it reads rows from both sources
concurrently and builds the index and data cache based on the master rows. The PowerCenter Server
then performs the join based on the detail source data and the cache data. To improve performance for
an unsorted Joiner transformation use the source with fewer rows as the master source. To improve

performance for a sorted Joiner transformation use the source with fewer duplicate key values as the
master.
=======================================
27.Informatica - what is the look up transformation?
QUESTION #27 Use lookup transformation in u’r mapping to lookup data in a
relational table,view,synonym.
Informatica server queries the look up table based on the lookup ports in the
transformation.It compares the lookup transformation port values to lookup
table column values based on the look up condition.
December 09, 2005 00:06:38 #1
phani
RE: what is the look up transformation?
=======================================
Using it we can access the data from a relational table which is not a source in the mapping.
For Ex:Suppose the source contains only Empno but we want Empname also in the mapping.Then
instead of adding another tbl which contains Empname as a source we can Lkp the table and get the
Empname in target.
=======================================
A lookup is a simple single-level reference structure with no parent/child relationships. Use a lookup
when you have a set of reference members that you do not need to organize hierarchically.
=======================================
In DecisionStream a lookup is a simple single-level reference structure with no parent/child
relationships. Use a lookup when you have a set of reference members that you do not need to organize
hierarchically.HTH
=======================================
Use a Lookup transformation in your mapping to look up data in a relational table view or synonym.
Import a lookup definition from any relational database to which both the Informatica Client and Server
can connect. You can use multiple Lookup transformations in a mapping.

Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Lookup transformation in a mapping is used to look up data in a flat file or a relational table view or
synonym. You can import a lookup definition from any flat file or relational database to which both the
PowerCenter Client and Server can connect. You can use multiple Lookup transformations in a
mapping.
I hope this would be helpful for you.
Cheers
Sridhar
=======================================
28.Informatica - Why use the lookup transformation ?
QUESTION #28 To perform the following tasks.
Get a related value. For example, if your source table includes employee ID, but
you want to include the employee name in your target table to make your
summary data easier to read.
Perform a calculation. Many normalized tables include values used in a
calculation, such as gross sales per invoice or sales tax, but not the calculated
value (such as net sales).
Update slowly changing dimension tables. You can use a Lookup transformation
to determine whether records already exist in the target.
August 21, 2006 22:26:47 #1
samba
RE: Why use the lookup transformation ?

=======================================
Lookup table is nothing but the lookup on a table view synonym and falt file.
by using lookup we can get a related value with join conditon and performs caluclations
two types of lookups are there
1)connected
2)Unconnected
connected lookup is with in pipeline only but unconnected lookup is not connected to pipeline
unconneceted lookup returns single column value only
let me know if you want to know any additions information
cheers
samba
=======================================
hey with regard to look up is there a dynamic look up and static look up ? if so how do you set it. and is
there a combinationation of dynamic connected lookups..and static unconnected look ups.?
=======================================
look up has two types Connected and Unconnected..Usually we use look-up so as to get the related
Value from a table ..it has Input port Output Port Lookup Port and Return Port..where Lookup Port
looks up the corresponding column for the value and resturn port returns the value..usually we use when
there are no columns in common
=======================================
For maintaining the slowly changing diamensions
=======================================
Hi
The ans to ur question is Yes
There are 2 types of lookups: Dynamic and Normal (which you have termed as Static).
To configure just double click on the lookup transformation and go to properties tab

There'll be an option - dynamic lookup cache. select that...
If u dont select this option then the lookup is merely a normal lookup.
Please let me know if there are any questions.
Thanks.
=======================================
29.Informatica - What r the types of lookup?
QUESTION #29 Connected and unconnected
November 08, 2005 18:44:53 #1
swati
RE: What r the types of lookup?
=======================================
i>connected
ii>unconnected
iii>cached
iv>uncached
=======================================
1.
Connected lookup
2.
Unconnected lookup
1.

Persistent cache
2.
Re-cache from database
3.
Static cache
4.
Dynamic cache
5.
Shared cache
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
hello boss/madam
only two types of lookup are there they are:
1) Connected lookup
2) Unconnected lookup.
I don't understand why people are specifying the cache types I want to know that now a days caches are
also taken into this category of lookup.
If yes do specify on the answer list
thankyou
=======================================
30.Informatica - Differences between connected and unconnected
lookup?
QUESTION #30
Connected lookup Unconnected lookup
Receives input values diectly
from the pipe line.
Receives input values from the result of a lkp
expression in a another transformation.
U can use a dynamic or static
cache
U can use a static cache.
Cache includes all lookup
columns used in the maping
Cache includes all lookup out put ports in the
lookup condition and the lookup/return port.
Support user defined default
values
Does not support user defiend default values

February 03, 2006 03:25:15 #1
Prasanna
RE: Differences between connected and unconnected look...
=======================================
In addition:
Connected Lookip can return/pass multiple rows/groups of data whereas unconnected can return only
one port.
=======================================
In addition to this: In Connected lookup if the condition is not satisfied it returns '0'. In UnConnected
lookup if the condition is not satisfied it returns 'NULL'.
=======================================
Hi
Differences Between Connected and Unconnected Lookups
Connected Lookup Unconnected Lookup
Receives input values directly from the pipeline.
Receives input values from the result of a :LKP
expression in another transformation.
You can use a dynamic or static cache. You can use a static cache.
Cache includes all lookup columns used in the
mapping (that is lookup source columns included in
the lookup condition and lookup source columns
linked as output ports to other transformations).
Cache includes all lookup/output ports in the
lookup condition and the lookup/return port.
Can return multiple columns from the same row or
insert into the dynamic lookup cache.
Designate one return port (R). Returns one
column from each row.

If there is no match for the lookup condition the
PowerCenter Server returns the default value for all
output ports. If you configure dynamic caching the
PowerCenter Server inserts rows into the cache or
leaves it unchanged.
If there is no match for the lookup condition
the PowerCenter Server returns NULL.
If there is a match for the lookup condition the
PowerCenter Server returns the result of the lookup
condition for all lookup/output ports. If you
configure dynamic caching the PowerCenter Server
either updates the row the in the cache or leaves the
row unchanged.
If there is a match for the lookup condition the
PowerCenter Server returns the result of the
lookup condition into the return port.
Pass multiple output values to another
transformation. Link lookup/output ports to another
transformation.
Pass one output value to another
transformation. The lookup/output/return port
passes the value to the transformation calling :
LKP expression.
Supports user-defined default values. Does not support user-defined default values.
Shivaji Thaneru
=======================================
31.Informatica - what is meant by lookup caches?
QUESTION #31 The informatica server builds a cache in memory when it
processes the first row af a data in a cached look up transformation.It allocates
memory for the cache based on the amount u configure in the transformation or
session properties.The informatica server stores condition values in the index
cache and output values in the data cache.
September 28, 2006 06:34:33 #1
srinivas vadlakonda
RE: what is meant by lookup caches?

=======================================
lookup cache is the temporary memory that is created by the informatica server to hold the lookup data
and to perform the lookup conditions
=======================================
A LookUP Cache is a Temporary Memory Area which is Created by the Informatica Server. which
stores the Lookup data based on certain Conditions. The Caches are of Three types 1) Persistent 2)
Dynamic 3) Static and 4) Shared Cache.
=======================================
32.Informatica - What r the types of lookup caches?
QUESTION #32 Persistent cache: U can save the lookup cache files and reuse
them the next time the informatica server processes a lookup transformation
configured to use the cache.
Recache from database: If the persistent cache is not synchronized with he
lookup table,U can configure the lookup transformation to rebuild the lookup
cache.
Static cache: U can configure a static or readonly cache for only lookup table.By
default informatica server creates a static cache.It caches the lookup table and
lookup values in the cache for each row that comes into the transformation.when
the lookup condition is true,the informatica server does not update the cache
while it prosesses the lookup transformation.
Dynamic cache: If u want to cache the target table and insert new rows into
cache and the target,u can create a look up transformation to use dynamic cache.
The informatica server dynamically inerts data to the target table.
shared cache: U can share the lookup cache between multiple transactions.U can
share unnamed cache between transformations inthe same maping.
December 13, 2005 06:02:36 #1
Sithu

RE: What r the types of lookup caches?
=======================================
Cache
1. Static cache
2. Dynamic cache
3. Persistent cache
Sithu
=======================================
Cache are three types namely Dynamic cache Static cache Persistent cache
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Dynamic cache
Persistence Cache
Re cache
Shared Cache
=======================================
hi could any one get me information where you would use these caches for look ups and how do you set
them.

thanks
infoseeker
=======================================
There are 4 types of lookup cache -
Persistent Recache Satic & Dynamic.
Bye
Stephen
=======================================
Types of Caches are :
1) Dynamic Cache
2) Static Cache
3) Persistent Cache
4) Shared Cache
5) Unshared Cache
=======================================
There are five types of caches such as
static cache
dynamic cache
persistant cache
shared cache etc...
=======================================
33.Informatica - Difference between static cache and dynamic
cache
QUESTION #33
Static cache Dynamic cache
U can not insert or update the cache
U can insert rows into the cache as u
pass to the target
The informatic server returns a value from the lookup
table or cache when the condition is true.When the
condition is not true, informatica server returns the
default value for connected transformations and null for
unconnected transformations.
The informatic server inserts rows
into cache when the condition is false.
This indicates that the the row is not
in the cache or target table. U can
pass these rows to the target table
Submitted by: vp

lets say for example your lookup table is your target table. So when you create the Lookup selecting the
dynamic cache what It does is it will lookup values and if there is no match it will insert the row in both
the target and the lookup cache (hence the word dynamic cache it builds up as you go along), or if there
is a match it will update the row in the target. On the other hand Static caches dont get updated when
you do a lookup.
ssangi, ananthece
=======================================
lets say for example your lookup table is your target table. So when you create the Lookup selecting the
dynamic cache what It does is it will lookup values and if there is no match it will insert the row in both
the target and the lookup cache (hence the word dynamic cache it builds up as you go along) or if there
is a match it will update the row in the target. On the other hand Static caches dont get updated when
you do a lookup.
=======================================
34.Informatica - Which transformation should we use to
normalize the COBOL and relational sources?
QUESTION #34 Normalizer Transformation.
When U drag the COBOL source in to the mapping Designer workspace,the
normalizer transformation automatically appears,creating input and output
ports for every column in the source.
January 19, 2006 01:08:06 #1
RE: Which transformation should we use to normalize th...

=======================================
The Normalizer transformation normalizes records from COBOL and relational sources allowing you to
organize the data according to your own needs. A Normalizer transformation can appear anywhere in a
data flow when you normalize a relational source. Use a Normalizer transformation instead of the
Source Qualifier transformation when you normalize a COBOL source. When you drag a COBOL
source into the Mapping Designer workspace the Normalizer transformation automatically appears
creating input and output ports for every column in the source
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
35.Informatica - How the informatica server sorts the string
values in Ranktransformation?
QUESTION #35 When the informatica server runs in the ASCII data movement
mode it sorts session data using Binary sortorder.If U configure the seeion to use
a binary sort order,the informatica server caluculates the binary value of each
string and returns the specified number of rows with the higest binary values for
the string.
December 09, 2005 00:25:27 #1
phani
RE: How the informatica server sorts the string values...

=======================================
When Informatica Server runs in UNICODE data movement mode then it uses the sort order configured
in session properties.
=======================================
36.Informatica - What is the Rankindex in Ranktransformation?
QUESTION #36 The Designer automatically creates a RANKINDEX port for
each Rank transformation. The Informatica Server uses the Rank Index port to
store the ranking position for each record in a group. For example, if you create a
Rank transformation that ranks the top 5 salespersons for each quarter, the rank
index numbers the salespeople from 1 to 5:
January 12, 2006 04:41:57 #1
RE: What is the Rankindex in Ranktransformation?
=======================================
Based on which port you want generate Rank is known as rank port the generated values are known as
rank index.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
37.Informatica - What is the Router transformation?
QUESTION #37 A Router transformation is similar to a Filter transformation
because both transformations allow you to use a condition to test data.
However, a Filter transformation tests data for one condition and drops the rows
of data that do not meet the condition. A Router transformation tests data for
one or more conditions and gives you the option to route rows of data that do
not meet any of the conditions to a default output group.

If you need to test the same input data based on multiple conditions, use a
Router Transformation in a mapping instead of creating multiple Filter
transformations to perform the same task.
January 19, 2006 04:46:42 #1
RE: What is the Router transformation?
=======================================
A Router transformation is similar to a Filter transformation because both transformations allow you
to use a condition to test data. A Filter transformation tests data for one condition and drops the rows of
data that do not meet the condition. However a Router transformation tests data for one or more
conditions and gives you the option to route rows of data that do not meet any of the conditions to a
default output group.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Note:- i think the definition and purpose of Router transformation define by sithusithu sithu is not clear
and not fully correct as they of have mentioned
<A Router transformation tests data for one or more conditions >
sorry sithu and sithusithu
but i want to clarify is that in Filter transformation also we can give so many conditions together. eg.
empno 1234 and sal>25000 (2conditions)
Actual Purposes of Router Transformation are:-
1. Similar as filter transformation to sort the source data according to the condition applied.
2. When we want to load data into different target tables from same source but with different condition
as per target tables requirement.

e.g. From emp table we want to load data in three(3) different target tables T1(where deptno 10) T2
(where deptno 20) and T3(where deptno 30).
For this if we use filter transformation we need three(3) filter transformations
So instead of using three(3) filter transformation we will use only one(1) Router transformation.
Advantages:-
1. Better Performance because in mapping the Router transformation Informatica server processes the
input data only once instead of three as in filter transformation.
2. Less complexity because we use only one router transformation instead of multiple filter
transformation.
Router Transformation is :- Active and Connected.
=======================================
38.Informatica - What r the types of groups in Router
transformation?
QUESTION #38 Input group Output group
The designer copies property information from the input ports of the input group
to create a set of output ports for each output group.
Two types of output groups
User defined groups
Default group
U can not modify or delete default groups.
December 09, 2005 00:35:44 #1
phani
RE: What r the types of groups in Router transformatio...

=======================================
Input group contains the data which is coming from the source.We can create as many user-defined
groups as required for each condition we want to specify.Default group contains all the rows of data
that doesn't satisfy the condition of any group.
=======================================
A Router transformation has the following types of groups:
l Input
l Output
Input Group
The Designer copies property information from the input ports of the input group to create a set of
output ports for each output group.
Output Groups
There are two types of output groups:
l User-defined groups
l Default group
You cannot modify or delete output ports or their properties.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
39.Informatica - Why we use stored procedure transformation?
QUESTION #39 For populating and maintaining data bases.

January 19, 2006 04:41:34 #1
RE: Why we use stored procedure transformation?
=======================================
A Stored Procedure transformation is an important tool for populating and maintaining databases.
Database administrators create stored procedures to automate time-consuming tasks that are too
complicated for standard SQL statements.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
You might use stored procedures to do the following tasks:
l Check the status of a target database before loading data into it.
l Determine if enough space exists in a database.
l Perform a specialized calculation.
l Drop and recreate indexes.
Shivaji Thaneru
=======================================
You might use stored procedures to do the following tasks:
l Check the status of a target database before loading data into it.
l Determine if enough space exists in a database.
l Perform a specialized calculation.
l Drop and recreate indexes.
Shivaji Thaneru
=======================================
we use a stored procedure transformation to execute a stored procedure which in turn might do the

above things in a database and more.
=======================================
can you give me a real time scenario please?
=======================================
40.Informatica - What is source qualifier transformation?
QUESTION #40 When U add a relational or a flat file source definition to a
maping,U need to connect it to
a source qualifer transformation.The source qualifier transformation represnets
the records
that the informatica server reads when it runs a session.
Submitted by: Rama Rao B.
Source qualifier is also a table, it acts as an intermediator in between source and target metadata. And, it
also generates sql, which creating mapping in between source and target metadatas.
Thanks,
Rama Rao
him.life
=======================================
When you add a relational or a flat file source definition to a mapping you need to connect it to a
Source Qualifier transformation. The Source Qualifier represents the rows that the Informatica Server
reads when it executes a session.
l Join data originating from the same source database. You can join two or more tables with
primary-foreign key relationships by linking the sources to one Source Qualifier.
l Filter records when the Informatica Server reads source data. If you include a filter condition the
Informatica Server adds a WHERE clause to the default query.
l Specify an outer join rather than the default inner join. If you include a user-defined join the
Informatica Server replaces the join information specified by the metadata in the SQL query.
l Specify sorted ports. If you specify a number for sorted ports the Informatica Server adds an
ORDER BY clause to the default SQL query.
l Select only distinct values from the source. If you choose Select Distinct the Informatica Server
adds a SELECT DISTINCT statement to the default SQL query.

l Create a custom query to issue a special SELECT statement for the Informatica Server to read
source data. For example you might use a custom query to perform aggregate calculations or execute a
stored procedure.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
When you add a relational or a flat file source definition to a mapping you need to connect it to a
Source Qualifier transformation. The Source Qualifier represents the rows that the Informatica Server
reads when it executes a session.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Source qualifier is also a table it acts as an intermediator in between source and target metadata. And it
also generates sql which creating mapping in between source and target metadatas.
Thanks
Rama Rao
=======================================
Def:- The Transformation which Converts the source(relational or flat) datatype to Informatica datatype.
So it works as an intemediator between and source and informatica server.
Tasks performed by qualifier transformation:-
1. Join data originating from the same source database.
2. Filter records when the Informatica Server reads source data.
3. Specify an outer join rather than the default inner join.
4. Specify sorted ports.
5. Select only distinct values from the source.
6. Create a custom query to issue a special SELECT statement for the Informatica Server to read source
data.
=======================================

Source Qualifier Transformation is the beginning of the pipeline of any transformation the main
purpose of this transformation is that it is reading the data from the relational or flat file and is passing
the data ie. read into the mapping designed so that the data can be passed into the other transformations
=======================================
Source Qualifier is a transformation with every source definiton if the source is Relational Database.
Source Qualifier fires a Select statement on the source db.
With every Source Definition u will get a source qualifier without Source qualifier u r mapping will be
invalid and u cannot define the pipeline to the other instance.
If the source is Cobol then for that source definition u will get a normalizer transormation not the
Source Qualifier.
=======================================
41.Informatica - What r the tasks that source qualifier performs?
QUESTION #41 Join data originating from same source data base.
Filter records when the informatica server reads source data.
Specify an outer join rather than the default inner join
specify sorted records.
Select only distinct values from the source.
Creating custom query to issue a special SELECT statement for the informatica
server to read
source data.
January 24, 2006 03:42:08 #1
RE: What r the tasks that source qualifier performs?

=======================================
l Join data originating from the same source database. You can join two or more tables with
primary-foreign key relationships by linking the sources to one Source Qualifier.
l Filter records when the Informatica Server reads source data. If you include a filter condition the
Informatica Server adds a WHERE clause to the default query.
l Specify an outer join rather than the default inner join. If you include a user-defined join the
Informatica Server replaces the join information specified by the metadata in the SQL query.
l Specify sorted ports. If you specify a number for sorted ports the Informatica Server adds an
ORDER BY clause to the default SQL query.
l Select only distinct values from the source. If you choose Select Distinct the Informatica Server
adds a SELECT DISTINCT statement to the default SQL query.
l Create a custom query to issue a special SELECT statement for the Informatica Server to read
source data. For example you might use a custom query to perform aggregate calculations or execute a
stored procedure.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
42.Informatica - What is the target load order?
QUESTION #42 U specify the target loadorder based on source qualifiers in a
maping.If u have the multiple
source qualifiers connected to the multiple targets,U can designatethe order in
which informatica
server loads data into the targets.
March 01, 2006 14:27:34 #1
saritha
RE: What is the target load order?

=======================================
A target load order group is the collection of source qualifiers transformations and targets linked
together in a mapping.
=======================================
43.Informatica - What is the default join that source qualifier
provides?
QUESTION #43 Inner equi join.
January 24, 2006 03:40:28 #1
RE: What is the default join that source qualifier pro...
=======================================
The Joiner transformation supports the following join types which you set in the Properties tab:
l Normal (Default)
l Master Outer
l Detail Outer
l Full Outer
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
Equijoin on a key common to the sources drawn by the SQ.
=======================================
44.Informatica - What r the basic needs to join two sources in a

source qualifier?
QUESTION #44 Two sources should have primary and Foreign key relation
ships.
Two sources should have matching data types.
December 14, 2005 10:32:44 #1
rishi
RE: What r the basic needs to join two sources in a so...
=======================================
The both the table should have a common feild with same datatype.
Its not neccessary both should follow primary and foreign relationship. If any relation ship exists that
will help u in performance point of view.
=======================================
Also of you are using a lookup in your mapping and the lookup table is small then try to join that looup
in Source Qualifier to improve perf.
Regards
SK
=======================================
Both the sources must be from same database.
=======================================
45.Informatica - what is update strategy transformation ?
QUESTION #45 This transformation is used to maintain the history data or just
most recent changes in to target
table.

January 19, 2006 04:33:23 #1
RE: what is update strategy transformation ?
=======================================
The model you choose constitutes your update strategy how to handle changes to existing rows. In
PowerCenter and PowerMart you set your update strategy at two different levels:
l Within a session. When you configure a session you can instruct the Informatica Server to
either treat all rows in the same way (for example treat all rows as inserts) or use instructions
coded into the session mapping to flag rows for different database operations.
l Within a mapping. Within a mapping you use the Update Strategy transformation to flag rows
for insert delete update or reject.
Chrees
Sithu
=======================================
Update strategy transformation is used for flagging the records for insert
update delete and reject
In Informatica power center u can develop update strategy at two levels
use update strategy T/R in the mapping design
target table options in the session
the following are the target table options
Insert

Update
Delete
Update as Insert
Update else Insert
Thanks
Rekha
=======================================
46.Informatica - What is the default source option for update
stratgey transformation?
QUESTION #46 Data driven.
March 28, 2006 05:03:53 #1
Gyaneshwar
RE: What is the default source option for update strat...
=======================================
DATA DRIVEN
=======================================
47.Informatica - What is Datadriven?
QUESTION #47 The informatica server follows instructions coded into update
strategy transformations with in the session maping determine how to flag
records for insert, update, delete or reject. If u do not choose data driven option
setting,the informatica server ignores all update strategy transformations in the
mapping.

January 19, 2006 04:36:22 #1
RE: What is Datadriven?
=======================================
The Informatica Server follows instructions coded into Update Strategy transformations within the
session mapping to determine how to flag rows for insert delete update or reject.
If the mapping for the session contains an Update Strategy transformation this field is marked Data
Driven by default.
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
When Data driven option is selected in session properties it the code will consider the update strategy
(DD_UPDATE DD_INSERT DD_DELETE DD_REJECT) used in the mapping and not the options
selected in the session properties.
=======================================
48.Informatica - What r the options in the target session of update
strategy transsformatioin?
QUESTION #48 Insert
Delete
Update
Update as update
Update as insert
Update esle insert
Truncate table
February 03, 2006 03:46:07 #1
Prasanna

RE: What r the options in the target session of update...
=======================================
Update as Insert:
This option specified all the update records from source to be flagged as inserts in the target. In other
words instead of updating the records in the target they are inserted as new records.
Update else Insert:
This option enables informatica to flag the records either for update if they are old or insert if they are
new records from source.
=======================================
49.Informatica - What r the types of maping wizards that r to be
provided in Informatica?
QUESTION #49 The Designer provides two mapping wizards to help you create
mappings quickly and easily. Both wizards are designed to create mappings for
loading and maintaining star schemas, a series of dimensions related to a central
fact table.
Getting Started Wizard. Creates mappings to load static fact and dimension
tables, as well as slowly growing dimension tables.
Slowly Changing Dimensions Wizard. Creates mappings to load slowly
changing dimension tables based on the amount of historical dimension data you
want to keep and the method you choose to handle historical dimension data.
January 09, 2006 02:43:25 #1
RE: What r the types of maping wizards that r to be pr...

=======================================
Simple Pass through
Slowly Growing Target
Slowly Changing the Dimension
Type1
Most recent values
Type2
Full History
Version
Flag
Date
Type3
Current and one previous
=======================================
Inf designer :
Mapping -> wizards --> 1) Getting started -->Simple pass through mapping
-->Slowly growing target
2) slowly changing dimensions---> SCD 1 (only recent values)
--->SCD 2(HISTORY using flag or version or time)
--->SCD 3(just recent values)
one important point is dimensions are 2 types
1)slowly growing targets

2)slowly changing dimensions.
=======================================
50.Informatica - What r the types of maping in Getting Started
Wizard?
QUESTION #50 Simple Pass through maping :
Loads a static fact or dimension table by inserting all rows. Use this mapping
when you want to drop all existing data from your table before loading new
data.
Slowly Growing target :
Loads a slowly growing fact or dimension table by inserting new rows. Use this
mapping to load new data when existing data does not require updates.
January 09, 2006 02:46:25 #1
RE: What r the types of maping in Getting Started Wiza...
=======================================
1. Simple Pass through2. Slowly Growing TargetCheers Sithu
=======================================
51.Informatica - What r the mapings that we use for slowly
changing dimension table?
QUESTION #51 Type1: Rows containing changes to existing dimensions are
updated in the target by overwriting the existing dimension. In the Type 1
Dimension mapping, all rows contain current dimension data.
Use the Type 1 Dimension mapping to update a slowly changing dimension table
when you do not need to keep any previous versions of dimensions in the table.
Type 2: The Type 2 Dimension Data mapping inserts both new and changed
dimensions into the target. Changes are tracked in the target table by versioning
the primary key and creating a version number for each dimension in the table.
Use the Type 2 Dimension/Version Data mapping to update a slowly changing

dimension table when you want to keep a full history of dimension data in the
table. Version numbers and versioned primary keys track the order of changes to
each dimension.
Type 3: The Type 3 Dimension mapping filters source rows based on user-defined
comparisons and inserts only those found to be new dimensions to the target.
Rows containing changes to existing dimensions are updated in the target. When
updating an existing dimension, the Informatica Server saves existing data in
different columns of the same row and replaces the existing data with the
updates
June 03, 2006 09:39:20 #1
mamatha
RE: What r the mapings that we use for slowly changing...
=======================================
hello sir
i want whole information on slowly changing dimension.and also want project on slowly changing
dimension in informatica.
Thanking you sir
mamatha.
=======================================
1.Up Date strategy Transfermation
2.Look up Transfermation.
=======================================

Type1: Rows containing changes to existing dimensions are updated in the target by overwriting the
existing dimension. In the Type 1 Dimension mapping all rows contain current dimension data. Use the
Type 1 Dimension mapping to update a slowly changing dimension table when you do not need to keep
any previous versions of dimensions in the table. Type 2: The Type 2 Dimension Data mapping inserts
both new and changed dimensions into the target. Changes are tracked in the target table by versioning
the primary key and creating a version number for each dimension in the table. Use the Type 2
Dimension/Version Data mapping to update a slowly changing dimension table when you want to keep
a full history of dimension data in the table. Version numbers and versioned primary keys track the
order of changes to each dimension. Type 3: The Type 3 Dimension mapping filters source rows based
on user-defined comparisons and inserts only those found to be new dimensions to the target. Rows
containing changes to existing dimensions are updated in the target.
=======================================
SCD:
Source to SQ - 1 mapping
SQ to LKP - 2 mapping
SQ_LKP to EXP - 3 Mapping
EXP to FTR - 4 Mapping
FTR to UPD - 5 Mapping
UPD to TGT - 6 Mapping
SQGen to TGT - 7 Mapping.
I think these are the 7 mapping used for SCD in general;
For type 1: The mapping will be doubled that is one for insert and other for update and total as 14.
For type 2 : The mapping will be increased thrice one for insert 2nd for update and 3 to keep the old
one. (here the history stores)
For type three : It will be doubled for insert one row and also to insert one column to keep the previous
data.
Cheers
Prasath
=======================================
52.Informatica - What r the different types of Type2 dimension
maping?
QUESTION #52 Type2 Dimension/Version Data Maping: In this maping the
updated dimension in the source will gets inserted in target along with a new
version number.And newly added dimension

in source will inserted into target with a primary key.
Type2 Dimension/Flag current Maping: This maping is also used for slowly
changing dimensions.In addition it creates a flag value for changed or new
dimension.
Flag indiactes the dimension is new or newlyupdated.Recent dimensions will
gets saved with cuurent flag value 1. And updated dimensions r saved with the
value 0.
Type2 Dimension/Effective Date Range Maping: This is also one flavour of Type2
maping used for slowly changing dimensions.This maping also inserts both new
and changed dimensions in to the target.And changes r tracked by the effective
date range for each version of each dimension.
January 04, 2006 05:31:39 #1
RE: What r the different types of Type2 dimension mapi...
=======================================
Type2
1. Version number
2. Flag
3.Date
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================

53.Informatica - How can u recognise whether or not the newly
added rows in the source r gets insert in the target ?
QUESTION #53 In the Type2 maping we have three options to recognise the
newly added rows
Version number
Flagvalue
Effective date Range
December 14, 2005 10:43:31 #1
rishi
RE: How can u recognise whether or not the newly added...
=======================================
If it is Type 2 Dimension the abouve answer is fine but if u want to get the info of all the insert
statements and Updates you need to use session log file where you configure it to verbose.
You will get complete set of data which record was inserted and which was not.
=======================================
Just use debugger to know how the data from source moves to target it will show how many new rows
get inserted else updated.
=======================================
54.Informatica - What r two types of processes that informatica
runs the session?
QUESTION #54 Load manager Process: Starts the session, creates the DTM
process, and sends post-session email when the session completes.
The DTM process. Creates threads to initialize the session, read, write, and
transform data, and handle pre- and post-session operations.

September 17, 2007 08:17:02 #1
rasmi Member Since: June 2007 Contribution: 20
RE: What r two types of processes that informatica run...
=======================================
When the workflow start to run
Then the informatica server process starts
Two process:load manager process and DTM Process;
The load manager process has the following tasks
1. lock the workflow and read the properties of workflow
2.create workflow log file
3. start the all tasks in workfolw except session and worklet
4.It starts the DTM Process.
5.It will send the post session Email when the DTM abnormally terminated
The DTM process involved in the following tasks
1. read session properties
2.create session log file
3.create Threades such as master thread read write transformation threateds
4.send post session Email.
5.run the pre and post shell commands .
6.run the pre and post stored procedures.
=======================================
55.Informatica - Can u generate reports in Informatcia?
QUESTION #55 Yes. By using Metadata reporter we can generate reports in
informatica.
January 19, 2006 05:05:46 #1

RE: Can u generate reports in Informatcia?
=======================================
It is a ETL tool you could not make reports from here but you can generate metadata report that is not
going to be used for business analysis
Cheers
Sithu
=======================================
can u pls tell me how generate metadata reports?
=======================================
56.Informatica - Define maping and sessions?
QUESTION #56 Maping: It is a set of source and target definitions linked by
transformation objects that define the rules for transformation.
Session : It is a set of instructions that describe how and when to move data
from source to targets.
December 04, 2006 15:07:09 #1
Pavani
RE: Define maping and sessions?

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