HiRDB is based on a plug-in architecture, in which abstract data types for multimedia data, such as documents and spatial data, and facilities that enable simple, high-speed operations on data can be used as a packaged product. With a plug-in architecture, facilities can be expanded to build a system that can handle multimedia data simply by registering plug-ins into HiRDB.

Moreover, application programs can handle multimedia data easily and at high speed without the programmer having to be concerned with complex operational details typical of multimedia data, and application programs can thus provide information services to customers efficiently. The following table lists the HiRDB plug-ins.

Table 10-1 HiRDB plug-ins

Plug-in	Explanation
HiRDB Text Search Plug-in	Provides a function for retrieving a large volume of document information accurately and quickly.
HiRDB Spatial Search Plug-in	Provides a function for retrieving spatial data (two-dimensional data), such as map information.
HiRDB XML Extension	Provides a function for storing XML documents in the database while their structure is retained.

For details about the HiRDB plug-in products, see the manuals for the applicable HiRDB plug-ins.