From the class list, I can tell that I already know most of you! Asking for a generic introduction seems a little silly. Let's try this: create a document (text file is fine) that you'll submit via Moodle, and tell me:

1. If you could have a database containing any data in the universe, what would that data be, and why?
2. Have you chosen a partner to work with on the programming assignments, do you intend to work alone, or would you like me to find you a partner?

For some assignments later this term, we'll be using the open-source database system PostgreSQL (generally spoken out loud as "postgres."). Over break, you should have reserved a password for PostgreSQL by email from Mike Tie. See him immediately if you don't have such a password. Then make sure that your password actually works: you won't need it for the first few assignments, but let's all just solve those pesky login problems now.

PostgreSQL is installed on the department machine named lime. You can connect to lime via a terminal window from any department machine by typing ssh lime. (If you're connecting remotely via ssh from outside the building, you may have to connect to prism.mathcs.carleton.edu first, then hop to lime from there.

After you've gotten into lime, type psql to start up the SQL interface to PostgreSQL. You should be prompted for a password: enter the password you've received from Mike Tie. If it doesn't work, you'll get a password authentication error: visit Mike Tie for help. If it does work, you'll see a welcome message. Celebrate, then logout of psql and then lime by pressing ctrl-d twice.

Make sure that you can successfully get into psql, and see Mike Tie if you have trouble.

Use Moodle to submit your text file for the assignment. You'll find a link there for the intro assignment.

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