Java

Overview Java was created in 1995 by Sun Microsystems as a platform independent distributed programming language. Although Java syntax closely resembles the C programming language, it's simpler to use and enforces the object-oriented model. Java was designed specifically for Internet usage and as such, contains features designed specifically to automate Web programming. JavaScript, created by Netscape Inc., is closely related to Java, but is a higher level language, easier to use, but not as powerful as Java. J2EE, or Java 2 Enterprise Edition, is a version of Java specifically designed to ease the development of enterprise level applications.

General Information Follow these links to Webopedia.com's definitions of Java, JavaScript, and J2EE. Sun Microsystems's official Java page is at java.sun.com, this page has links to FAQs, articles, tutorials, documentation, and programming tips. The place to begin learning about Java is David J. Eck’s "Introduction to Programming Using Java" at http://math.hws.edu/javanotes/index.html. You can find several online Java tutorials, including "Introducing Java-Your First Applet" at www.freewarejava.com/tutorials/index.shtml. You'll find a Java glossary, articles, and applets that you can download at the Java Boutique (javaboutique.internet.com/how_to/glossary.html). Despite all the hype about Java, some industry analysts remain skeptical about its usefulness. Read this G4 Videogame TV article titled "Java: Lukewarm, but Still Tasty" by Tom Merritt.

Additional Links Gamelan This web site bills itself as "the official directory for Java," and it is endorsed by Sun and JavaSoft. You'll find information about the Java platform, programming, products, jobs, and certification. You'll also find code snippets, applets, and plenty of articles on important topics such as e-commerce, security, and new technologies and applications. And don't forget to look at the section on game development!