A Study on SSD Aware Scan Operation Optimization in PostgreSQL Database

Abstract

Cost functions used by query optimizers in database systems are built around the properties of conventional hardware technologies like spin type hard disk drives. But with the rapid development in storage technology several new technologies have emerged to overcome the limitations in conventional storage media. One such storage technology is flash storage type which belongs to the broader category of SSDs (Solid State Devices). In this paper we discuss a study done to optimize scan operation performance in PostgreSQL database running on flash storage media by changing the random block transfer cost parameter to a suitable value.