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Java Ron Graham |
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Java is a programming language, commonly used to create
dynamic effects on Web pages (referred to as "applets" -
"small applications"), though by no means limited to
that use. Java is object-oriented, which means that
the programmer can create "objects" (combinations of
"methods," or programs, and the parameters on which
those methods work). Java applets must be compiled,
and executed at "run-time," or when the browser brings
up on the screen the page containing the applets.
Java applets you write must be compiled, and you can do this with a development environment (e.g. Microsoft Visual J++, etc.) or by downloading the Java Development Kit (JDK) from java.sun.com. Java is easier to learn for most programmers than C++, possibly accounting for its having established itself as a Web programming language. Java also has a wide range of predefined objects and methods, and a great deal of flexibility in error-handling. On the other hand, even though it was created to be platform-independent, it isn't quite that way. Java, like JavaScript and HTML, must be examined on multiple browsers to ensure that your visitors will all experience the same effects. If you're willing to do this, and your goal is a page that "does cool things," then Java is something you want to use. Java can be classified as a "development environment," which would include
Some commonly-used applet effects include
NOTE: Your mileage will vary in terms of how much your site visitors will want these effects. Some find such effects as blinking images and scrolling text distracting. References
Java Home Page -
an excellent place to start learning, or to download the JDK What You Can Do
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