In active database duplication, RMAN connects as TARGET to the source database instance and as AUXILIARY to the auxiliary instance. RMAN then manages the copying of the database to the auxiliary instance over the network. No backups of the source database are required.
RMAN can transfer the files required for active database duplication as image copies or backup sets.
Note:
Performing active database duplication using backup sets is available starting with Oracle Database 12c Release 1 (12.1).
Figure 25-2 illustrates active database duplication.
Figure 25-2 Active Database Duplication