SQL*Loader uses the SQL array-interface option to transfer data to the database. Multiple rows are read at one time and stored in the bind array. When SQL*Loader sends the Oracle database an INSERT command, the entire array is inserted at one time. After the rows in the bind array are inserted, a COMMIT statement is issued.
The determination of bind array size pertains to SQL*Loader's conventional path option. In general, it does not apply to the direct path load method because a direct path load uses the direct path API. However, the bind array might be used for special cases of direct path load where data conversion is necessary.
See Also:
Oracle Call Interface Programmer's Guide for more information about the concepts of direct path loading