Java Systems
The followoing links contain information on how to set
up different methods for running Java. Most of the systems
described here are free or are inexpensive shareware. Some
free systems also have commercial versions with more features.
The Java standard for AP Computer Science is Java 1.2.
The system may be downloaded from The Sun website below.
There are also other compilers that are compatible, but
be sure that it is Java 1.2 or later along with the standard
libraries. Althoug graphics is not part of the Java subset
that will be tested for the AP course, it can be an excellent
way to engage students and it is used for the Marine Biology
Simulation case study.
Downloading
the SUN Java SDK
This page is the place to get the free Java system and documentation.
The current version is sdk1.4.1, but any version after sdk1.2
should work for the AP program. Many of the systems with
links below, such as BlueJ and TextPad, will automatically
find and use this system if it is installed first
TextPad
TextPad is a shareware editor that includes menu commands
to compile and run Java applications and applets. The cost
is $20 or less, depending on volume, for educational use.
It is simple to install and use.
BlueJ
BlueJ is a free system for working with Java. It
includes an interface that display icons for classes and
objects, includes an editor for writing the java files that
can use a template, and includes the capability of running
methods right from the object or class icons without writing
a driver program. It is comes with some sample libraries
including some graphics examples that are very good. BlueJ
is itself a Java application, so it will run on any system
supporting the current version of Java. Highly recommended,
especially for beginners.
Using
Java from the Command Line
Java can easily be used from a command line interface (DOS
or Command window under Windows, any command line interface
under unix/linux). After writing the file in a convenient
editor, you call the compiler and the runtime commands from
the command line. Details are here.
jar
Files
Libraries and utilities are often distributed as jar files.
If you use them often, it can be helpful to store them in
the directory for extensions as decribed here.
Classpath
Another way to access library files and other files that
you may use, is to store them in a directory accessible
from the classpath, as described here.
Other Java Systems
This link takes you to a College Board page with links to
information on other Java systems.
