No Primary Index (NoPI) Tables - Teradata Database

No Primary Index (NoPI) Tables

You can create tables without a primary index (NoPI). The performance of FastLoad and Teradata Parallel Data Pump (TPump) Array INSERT operations can be enhanced by using NoPI staging tables.

You can use NoPI tables as intermediate work tables where PI access is not a consideration. The system automatically balances the distribution of NoPI tables across AMPs.

NoPI tables are designed for these circumstances:

Temporary use

When you have not yet determined a suitable primary index

Column-partitioning (which cannot be done on tables with a primary index)

In all other circumstances, Teradata recommends that you specify a primary index when you create a table.