## Data Carrier Type

The Loader uses a data carrier to physically store the data stream outside the database instance during export/import.

You can specify the type of the data carrier in import and export commands for the data stream in the syntax element mediumtype_spec.

See also:

Data Stream

### Syntax

<mediumtype_spec> ::= FILE | PIPE | TAPE [<ebid_spec>]

FILE | The data carrier for the data stream is the file system. Default value: FILE
PIPE | The data carrier for the data stream is a pipe.
TAPE | (Relevant for EXPORT DB only): the data carrier for the data stream is a tape that is communicated with using a third-party backup tool.
TAPE <ebid_spec> | (Relevant for IMPORT DB only): the data carrier for the data stream is a tape that is communicated with using a third-party backup tool.
<ebid_spec> | EBID '<literal>' You have to specify the external backup ID literal of the data stream to be imported. See the SQL Reference Manual, Literal (literal)

### Explanation

You can use the syntax rule mediumtype_spec to assign a data carrier to the data stream. The Loader differentiates between the data carrier types specified in mediumtype_spec. If you do not specify a data carrier type, the Loader uses the file system (FILE) as the data carrier for the data stream.

#### Using Backup Tools from Other Providers

Data carrier type TAPE is supported for exporting/importing the entire database and/or the entire database catalog (EXPORT/IMPORT DB). In this case the backup tool from other providers chosen for the Loader session is used for exporting/importing.

See also:

Exporting and Importing Using Backup Tools from Other Providers

EXPORT DB Command

IMPORT DB Command