Java Reference
In-Depth Information
Because of the focus, this chapter is more technical, as it includes download and installation instruc-
tions and far less concept or theory about Java or basic programming. If you have been program-
ming in Java or another language, you probably already have a preferred development environment.
It should not be dificult for you to continue using that while following the exercises in this topic,
even if it is not Eclipse. Just note that the figures and instructions are based on how Eclipse looks
and functions.
This chapter is organized in two main sections: introduction to Integrated Development Environments
and installing Eclipse. In the introduction, you'll look at programming in basic text editors and
command‐line execution and in more advanced Integrated Development Environments (IDE), such
as Eclipse, NetBeans, and IntelliJ IDEA. The second section focuses on one commonly used IDE,
Eclipse, including how to download and install it and set it up for the first time. At the end of the
installation section, you will practice using Eclipse by creating a small program, so you can compare
programming in an IDE to programming with text editors and the command line. If you already
have a development environment, and do not need or want to investigate others, you can skip this
chapter. If you are brand new to programming, this chapter should help you get started with your
first coding experience.
integrated development environments
Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) are applications that offer programmers facilities for
developing software. IDEs include tools that support all aspects of software development, including
creating, debugging, compiling, and running the code. Typically, IDEs check your code for syntax
errors, as you type not so different from how spelling and grammar check works in word processing
programs. Debugging support allows you to move slowly and methodically through your program
to find errors. IDEs also keep track of your many projects and programs, and the files associated
with them, so you can easily organize your work.
Most of the features provided by IDEs are available as stand‐alone tools, but IDEs integrate several
programming components into one user‐friendly interface. An Integrated Development Environment
is not required for programming. However, in order to create and compile Java programs of your
own, you need the Java Development Kit (JDK). If you don't have it already, you can download
the latest version from Oracle's website at http://www.oracle.com/technetwork/java/javase/
downloads/index.html . Make sure you choose the most recent release of the JDK that is appropri-
ate for your operating system. Oracle offers the JDK for Linux (32 or 64 bit), Mac OS, Solaris, and
Windows (32‐ or 64‐bit). If you're using a Windows machine and aren't sure if it's 32‐bit or 64‐bit,
you can right‐click on My Computer and check Properties (or go to Control Panel System and
Security System). You should see the system type listed there. The Windows JDK you download
from Oracle includes an installer, which will lead you through the installation step‐by‐step. If you
need more instructions for another system or want a more detailed explanation, installation guides
are available on the Oracle website.
coding in text editors
Once you have installed the Java Development Kit, you can begin coding with simple text editors,
like Notepad, which you already have on your computer. You will try this as your first exercise,
 
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