RPM to CPIO Converter

This archive format is used as an installation packet in the Unix operating system for updating, querying, checking, deleting and installing software products. The RPM archive is a database that is comprised of a single base of program packets and a large number of small databases. The system can store information about packet modifications, deletions and installations.

A file compression format that is created in a corresponding tape archiver. It’s still used in the Linux version 2.6 kernel and the 'pax' archive installer from Apple. The archive contains header information with data about access privileges, the owner and time of creation. It was created to store back-up data on tape drives and other tape devices. These days Oracle developers deliver much of their software in CPIO format.