  Data Access will be the next generation data abstraction layer for EPICS. Its
implementation in C++ brought up a number of issues that are related to object
oriented technology's impact on CPU and memory usage.
  What is gained by the new abstract interface? What is the price that has to
be paid for these gains? What compromises seem applicable and affordable?
  This paper discusses tests that have been made about performance and memory
usage as well as the different measures that have been taken to optimize the
situation.
