libpqbased

libpqbased refers to software that is built around the libpq library, the official PostgreSQL C client interface. A libpqbased application uses libpq for establishing connections, sending SQL commands, and retrieving results, rather than relying on higher-level ORMs or database abstractions. The term signals an emphasis on libpq’s API and behavior in design and maintenance.

Core functionality in a libpqbased program includes managing connections with PQconnectdb and PQfinish, issuing statements via PQexec or using asynchronous paths with PQsendQuery, and processing results through PGresult structures retrieved with PQgetResult. Error handling relies on PGresult status codes and PQerrorMessage for diagnostics. Programs may also use prepared statements (PQprepare, PQexecPrepared) and parameterized queries (PQexecParams) to improve performance and safety.

Architecture often consists of a thin wrapper around libpq or direct use of the libpq API alongside application logic. Thread safety depends on the approach to connections (one connection per thread or proper synchronization) and on libpq’ s configuration. Asynchronous query processing can be employed to improve scalability and responsiveness in multi-threaded or event-driven environments.

Compatibility and deployment require the libpq development headers and libraries matching the target PostgreSQL server version. While many C programs are libpqbased, bindings exist for other languages that call into libpq through foreign function interfaces, leading to cross-language components that retain a libpq-based core.

Advantages of the libpqbased approach include fine-grained control over connection lifecycle, explicit error reporting, and potential performance benefits. Drawbacks include more boilerplate code, manual memory management, and the burden of implementing SQL and result handling. libpqbased is common when low-level control and interoperability with existing libpq infrastructure are priorities.