title: Codeigniter's insert_batch() function performance and limitations?
body: <p>I’m writing an application that sends sms through an sms gateway and I’m keeping (obviously) a copy of the message on the database. Till now, for prototyping purposes, I was inserting each message into the database one by one with Codeigniter's Active Record class, but for bulk sending messages I will use <code>insert_batch()</code> to fasten the whole process. I’m talking about 1000-5000, and maybe more, sms (inserts) per user request at one time.</p>
  
  <p>My question is, is <code>insert_batch()</code> going to be sufficient, fast enough and error free to such big amount of inserts? Or is it being used for less inserts per batch job. Is it safer or faster to make a custom mysql query with multiple rows in one INSERT? Are there any limitations on the amount of rows that can be inserted with <code>insert_batch()</code>?</p>
  
  <p>Has anyone else used it for big amount of inserts before? If yes what's your experience?</p>