DB2 9 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows: Advanced Database Administration Certification Study Guide [ペーパーバック]

It's not surprising that this book is extremely well written and informative considering the two authors. Roger Sanders is "the" DB2 author we all admire and Dwaine Snow has long been considered an "expert to the experts" so the collaboration of these two virtually guaranteed a success. Despite this being a Certification Study Guide (a slot that it fits very well indeed), the information this book contains goes well beyond what would simply prepare someone to pass the cert. It is an excellent foundational work for any DB2 DBA and should be considered required reading for those of us who work with the product daily.

I read this book cover to cover. I took all the chapter sample tests, and the Appendix test. Then I re-read the book. I took the 734 exam today and passed 96% (only missed 2 out of 51 questions). Clearly this book works.

The sample exam questions are so close to the actual test questions that, if you understand why a sample question is correct in this book, take all the sample questions and do well, I don't think it is possible to fail the 734.

I say this with several caveats. First, the book is filled with typos and a few serious factual errors. You should have your laptop open as you go through the book and read the DB2 9 and 9.5 Information Center to verify details. Second, the book completely glosses over some DB2 features such as the Administration Server, some details on DPF, or how to use db2pd effectively. Again, check the Internet and IBM Information Center for more information to fill out those gaps.

The Index and Table of Contents could be much better.

I would have liked the Appendix sample test to have had different questions than those used in the Chapter sample tests. At some point obviously the reader begins to memorize the test questions which skews the results for the final sample test, reducing its effectiveness as an assessment tool.

This is NOT a generic reference for how to be an effective DBA. This is a certification guide and will only help you pass the 734 test. The 734 is NOT a comprehensive test of what it takes to be a DB2 LUW DBA. In my opinion, IBM needs to develop a more detailed certification roadmap for DB2 database administrators. In particular there should be a separate certification exam for DPF/Data Warehouse/Balanced Infosphere administration.

You should consider passing the 734 only the beginning of wisdom. Follow this up with your own independent reading in the IBM Information Center and Redbooks.

If you are trying to get your Advanced DB2 certification then I highly recommend getting this book. Not only did this book help me pass my 734 exam the first time, I also use it as a guide book for on the job references. It's not a book to go to for a bunch of examples, but it will guide you to the right answers. Buy this book, you won't be let down.