TeraText is a non-relational

Relational database

A relational database is a database that conforms to relational model theory. The software used in a relational database is called a relational database management system . Colloquial use of the term "relational database" may refer to the RDBMS software, or the relational database itself...

 text database

Database

A database is an organized collection of data for one or more purposes, usually in digital form. The data are typically organized to model relevant aspects of reality , in a way that supports processes requiring this information...

. It is used to store and search through large amounts of textual data. It was originally developed at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology

RMIT University

RMIT University is an Australian public university located in Melbourne, Victoria. It has two branches, referred to as RMIT University in Australia and RMIT International University in Vietnam....

TeraText operation utilises a heavy client server

Fat client

A fat client is a computer in client–server architecture or networks that typically provides rich functionality independent of the central server...

 model. A basic setup can consist of a Content Server (CS), Advanced Search Interface, Application Server (AS), Security Server (SLS) and a Boot Server (boots).

Individual servers communicate with each other using the standard Z39.50

Z39.50

Z39.50 is a client–server protocol for searching and retrieving information from remote computer databases. It is covered by ANSI/NISO standard Z39.50, and ISO standard 23950. The standard's maintenance agency is the Library of Congress....

 protocol. Administration is through the HTTP interface.