How to get a stack trace from a CORE file

We might have of come across of many situation where Oracle create CORE file, usually when the process has attempted perform something which Operating System does not like.

 

Since the CORE file is in binary format, it is difficult to read the contents of it and upon contacting Oracle Support, they might ask you to get the stack trace from a CORE file which will be helpful for their investigation.

 

I will shows you couple of steps using which you can produce the stack trace for a CORE file, this example is only for UNIX platforms.

 

By default, 'core' file will be generated under the directory mentioned with CORE_DUMP_DEST init parameter, or  in $ORACLE_HOME/dbs or in the directory from where you run the applicationf.

 

First step is to know which executable (program) cause core file genration.

                

               file core (make sure you are in the core file directory and execute the command).

 

Second step is to get the stack trace from the core file using one of the following command which supports to your OS:

 

                  dbx, xdb, gdb, dde, sdb, adb, debug, gdb

 

For me on HPUX Superdom, 'adb' command works.

 

Example:

                        script mystack

                        adb $ORACLE_HOME/bin/program core

                             $c

                             $q

                          exit

 

When the above commands are executed, stack trace of the core file will be in 'mystack' file and you can upload this file to the Oracle Support for their investigation.

 

 

Referecnes:

 

Note : 1812.1 Getting a Stack Trace from CORE file