Like most IT professionals, I have a bookshelf full of technical books ranging from hardware setups to operating systems and software. These books are generally very thorough at covering the subject they set out to document but tend to omit information that connects their subject to other related subjects.

It can be challenging for someone new to the installation of a UNIX and Oracle system to correctly configure it and set it up. So, for a long time I've seen the need for a book that serves to jump start the installation process.

My book walks through one form of the installation of a Tru64 UNIX 5.1A cluster with Oracle9 i RAC (Real Application Cluster). There are many different approaches to the installation process, and I have documented the most efficient methods and practices. The book covers a complete 2-node installation from start to finish. Each chapter is organized into a brief introduction of the subject, configuration steps, and a command summary related to each topic. For anyone new to the configuration and setup of a Tru64 UNIX cluster, this book contains beneficial information that will assist during complete process. For the advanced user, this quick reference guide will also provide a useful desk reference for looking up an occasional command.

To use this book successfully, review all the information in a given chapter. Then follow the steps in precisely the order given. If there are a variety of methods to achieve a goal, the "optional" icon will appear...