Why Java? - an intro
Java is Object-Oriented - OO
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OO Design - OOD - is highly-regarded
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OO makes it easy to add new facilities to the language
Java is general-purpose:-
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can be used to write 'applets' which run in a web browser
can be used to write conventional applications, like VB.
Java looks like C++ :
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C++ popular for writing Windows apps
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C++ VERY difficult
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Java is simpler
Java is platform-independent:
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runs on mac. PC (Linux OS, or Windows), Sun, phones...
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A Java program is compiled into 'byte-code', which is then executed by an interpreter.
(there is NO .exe file)
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The byte code can be interpreted on another type of computer, without re-compiling.(Portable).
Java is robust - applets can't include viruses.
Java has massive libraries, containing 'classes' to do, e.g:
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graphics
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GUI
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net access
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database
Running it
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Sun provide a free Java devel Kit - JDK with compiler, etc (40 meg)
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this is a 'command-line' interface
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GUI 'front-ends' are available - e.g Borland JBuilder
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We will use Japa initially. Borland later if you choose.
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Note - no easy drag/drop screen builder software as in VB !!!!
Applet demo
see- Moving to java - p2
Mike's web page