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What it is:
An object-oriented programming language, currently the "lingua franca" of the Internet. It can be used to program almost everything.
Java applications are sometimes called "applets" because they do one thing.
Java programs are downloaded, and run on the client computer.
Applications can range from simple blinking buttons, to full-fledged programs. Indeed, there are even full-blown office suites (wp,ss) written in Java, which can be "run" off a web site.
Fortunately, almost all browsers and operating systems have a Java environment.
Java doesn't have to live in the browser! Once a browser is installed, the computer has a "Java Virtual Machine" so applets can be downloaded and run outside the browser.
Pros:
No plug in Required
Applications created in Java run in any Java-enable environments. Programmers don't have to worry if it is for Mac or PC.
There are many "canned" applications you can buy
There are numerous easy-to-use / no-programming tools for creating your Java applications
Security is built-in to the language: Java applets cannot write data to your hard disk.
Cons:
Questionable performance--some people say that Java is slow.
Download time--poorly written Java can be large
Many users turn it off
Programming expertise required for custom applications.
Security features may limit what Java can do.
Examples:
The Internet Voice
An example of using Java to gather information. The applet checks information before submitting... more robust and flexible than using forms.
American Committee for...
Example of using Java to create a multimedia package.
Magic Buttons
Buttons can be made using other technologies, but Java adds special effects.
ABC News Ticker
Scrolling text or "tickers" are favorite Java applets. ABC News has the best ticker online.
Stig's Sky Calendar
This is a robust application, showing how Java can enhance the delivery of data/information.
Visual Thesaurus
Shows possibilities for "fuzzy" interfaces.
Resources:
Java 101
(For beginners)
JavaUser
(For everyone from beginner to advanced)
Gamelan
This site is the host of numerous applets and other resources.
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