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JavaGroove 1.0d8 ($29.95 Shareware) Last time we had a look at Java on the Mac, it was the spiffy MacJikes compiler, which has since released versions for Mac OS X DP2 and DP3. Since then, Sun still hasn't bothered to release a Mac version of their JDK, seemingly leaving this task to others. Fortunately, we've found a promising environment for Mac Java development called JavaGroove. It includes features found in more expensive packages, such as a friendly visual development environment, but at a fraction of the cost. After you install JavaGroove, you'll need to copy (copy, do NOT move!) your JDKClasses.zip file from the location in the System Folder (Extensions:MRJ Libraries:MRJClasses:JDKClasses.zip to be exact) to the JavaGroove Classes folder. Once you do this, you can start the environment and write some code.
The JavaGroove Project Manager While JavaGroove was able to compile the standard "Hello World" application, the real fun comes in if you want to design an interface for use with your Java application. JavaGroove contains a forms designer, where you can place interface elements such as pulldown menus, buttons, text fields, scroll bars and check boxes. Once you design your interface, you can then export it to Java code. If all goes well, your code will compile and produce one or more .class files. At this point, you need a tool to take the class files and execute them. Your best bet is to get your hands on the Mac OS Runtime for Java SDK, which can be found on Apple's SDK download page. This package has an application call JBindery, which can execute .class files, and also create a standalone Macintosh application from the .class files. If you want to check out Java development on the Mac, but aren't yet ready for some of the more expensive development tools, then JavaGroove is definitely worth a look. Have any other Mac OS Internet Gadgets you'd like us to look at? Let John know via e-mail, or share it with the rest of us in the Mac Gadget Forum. |
