>>>We usually apply the patchset directly to the existing >>>ORACLE_HOME - but on the *test* server first. Then, when >>>we're done with testing we apply the patchset directly to >>>the production ORACLE_HOME. If we didn't have a separate >>>test server, then yes, I would follow your approach of >>>creating a second O_H for testing on the production box. No, what I'm saying is install another previous rev Home on production, apply the patchset to it and then bring over goodies from the old previous rev home, finally, abandon the previous rev home. This even after testing on a test system. Is that weird? DISLAIMER: "Production" to me is not typical IT (datacenter). I work in an engineering orgnaization and production to me means I am able to work on my products. -- //www.freelists.org/webpage/oracle-l