The PostgreSQL Project has released the second beta of version 8.4 for community testing. This beta release fixes a number of issues with the first 8.4 beta, especially issues with pg_standby, PL/pgSQL and encoding and collation handling. We need all users to test 8.4 Beta 2 as soon as possible in order to speed the final release of the new version.
In order to improve the usability of pg_standby, we have added "fast" and "smart" mode switches to the utility. This is an API change. The "smart" mode ensures that all logs are applied for zero data loss, while the "fast" mode is similar to prior behavior. The behavior of the trigger file has also changed. Developers of PostgreSQL administration tools should modify them to support the new API.
Additionally, the following features and utilities were fixed or modified between Beta 1 and Beta 2. Please take time to test the functionality below to make certain the fixes behave as expected.
For more information:
The usual duration of the beta testing period for a new version of PostgreSQL is 6 weeks. However, that time can vary significantly depending on what bugs our testing discovers. The PostgreSQL project does not release until all significant known bugs are fixed. Your help finding and fixing bugs will speed up the final release.
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