Unable to drop a datafile.

[Aravindan.2005]

i'm unable to drop a datafile from a tablespace.

SQL> Alter databse drop datafile '/opt/oracle/oradata/ARM/Sample.dbf';

I get the below error:

ORA-01900 : logfile keyword expected.

Let me know what has to be followed?

[davey23uk]

there is no drop datafile command - you cannot do that

[Aravindan.2005]

Thanks friend..

But if i require to drop the datafile means what has to be done..

I heard that we have option to drop datafile in 9i and above. Not sure b4 9i.

Please correct me if i'm wrong...

[PAVB]

You are wrong in regards to 9i reference.
If you are on 10g investigate alter tablespace drop datafile, double-check restrictions.
During normal operation there is no reason to drop a datafile.

[Aravindan.2005]

Thanks PAVB for updating me.

I'm using oracle 9i version 2. So now i need to drop a datafile which has no data in it. Also the datafile is in offline status right now. is there any possible way to drop the datafile or we dont have any such option to drop..?

Pls clarify and correct if i'm wrong.

[PAVB]

i need to drop a datafile which has no data in it

How do you know?

[Aravindan.2005]

Jst now i created a datafile and once created I made it offline.

FYI.. I'm using test database. Not a production DB.

[davey23uk]

Jst now i created a datafile and once created I made it offline.

FYI.. I'm using test database. Not a production DB.

you can't do that

you cannot get rid of a datafile once you have created it

[PAVB]

mmhhh... either way, as already stated drop datafile functionality was introduced on Ora10gR2.
Check Metalink Note #111316.1