Java Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAPTER 3
Getting Started with the
NetBeans IDE
N umerous tools are available for building Java ME applications, but the NetBeans
integrated development environment (IDE) stands out as providing the best-of-breed
support for the platform while remaining open for changes and extensions. If you're just
starting out, the NetBeans software development kit (SDK) is the place to begin; if you're
exploring the Java ME platform with thoughts of doing your work in another environ-
ment, many of the concepts you'll learn in this chapter still apply.
In this chapter, I begin with an introduction to the NetBeans IDE and explain how to
install it for both Microsoft Windows and Linux. Next, I present a whirlwind tour of the
NetBeans IDE; this is very brief, as the best way to learn the IDE is by using it. As a result,
I spend considerable time using the IDE in two step-by-step tutorials: one to build your
first CLDC/Java ME application, and the other to build your first CDC/AGUI application.
After reading this chapter, you will understand the basics of laying out, editing, compil-
ing, and packaging CLDC/Java ME and CDC applications using NetBeans. You'll also gain
an understanding of the technology that you can bring to other environments, such as
EclipseME, should you choose a different tool chain.
Selecting the NetBeans IDE
While a bevy of tools is available for doing Java ME work, it's a good idea to begin learning
Java ME with the NetBeans IDE, for several reasons:
• It's free.
• It includes a GUI builder that lets you lay out complex screens quickly and with
little effort, autogenerating the code behind the scenes.
• It includes full support for source-level debugging of your application.
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