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Even though this example uses less than 50 lines of code, it still manages to illustrate some of the interactive power of Java. One of Java's great advantages is that it incorporates many of the most common user interface, network and parsing tools within its extensive class hierarchy. For this reason it is possible to build up much more sophisticated applets without requiring vast amounts of code. In the second part of this article we will explore some of these capabilities in greater depth.

Until then, there are several places you can explore to learn more about Java. The ultimate resource is Sun's own Java home page, where documentation links lead to the Java Programmer's Manual, complete specifications for every class within the Java class hierarchy, and a specification for the Java Virtual machine, among other documents of interest. Netscape's home page also contains several interesting links to Java applet code and other Java resources.

One final note of caution: This examples in this article used the Beta 2 version of the Java language, classes and tools. When browsing the Web you will undoubtedly encounter earlier versions, including the Beta 1, "Pre-Beta" and Alpha-3 versions of Java. While the Beta and Pre-Beta versions are quite similar, the differences between the Alpha-3 version and the others are particularly severe. If you see HTML documents with an <APP> tag, or Java source attempting to import awt.* rather than java.awt.*, beware--these are no longer supported.

Mark Reynolds is a network protocol designer, Java programmer, computer animator, and fanatic mountaineer. He currently consults to Adaptive Optics Associates, a United Technologies company.

Reprinted from Web Developer® magazine, Vol. 2 No.1 Spring 1996 (c) 1996 internet.com Corporation. All rights reserved.

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