Question

Which method of processing does not use the destructive update approach?

1) batch processing using direct access files
2) real-time processing
3) batch processing using sequential files
4) all of the above use the destructive update approach

Answer 1

Real-time processing does not use the destructive update approach, as it handles data in real time and often uses backup systems to protect data integrity. Batch processing, however, can potentially overwrite original data with updates.

Step-by-step explanation:

The method of processing that does not use the destructive update approach is real-time processing. In destructive updating, the original data is overwritten by the updated data, which may not be desirable in all situations. Real-time processing systems often use techniques to avoid such destructive updates, to ensure the integrity and availability of data. These systems handle data transaction by transaction, in real time, and they typically maintain backups or use redundant systems to prevent data loss. On the other hand, batch processing, whether using direct access or sequential files, could use destructive updates depending on the specific implementation of the system and requirements of the processing task. Therefore, the correct answer is 2) real-time processing.