Java Frequently-asked Questions and other Random Wisdom

What release of the Java Development Kit (JDK) does Silicon Graphics support?

Silicon Graphics currently supports the 1.1.2 release of the Java Development Kit, available for download for all systems running IRIX 5.3, 6.2, 6.3, or 6.4. JDK 1.1 includes Java Beans, Remote Method Invocation (RMI), Java Native Interface (JNI), and tons of other cool stuff. For more details, read our white paper on New JDK 1.1 features. We also support JDK 1.0.2 (our version number 2.1.1).

Is there a visual development toolset for Java that runs on Silicon Graphics?

Cosmo Code is an integrated development environment including a graphical debugger, a visual builder that supports Java Beans, a project manager, and more.

Will Cosmo Code run on any other platforms?

We announced at Java One in April, 1997, that Cosmo Code is being ported to Windows 95 and Windows NT and is due to be released on those platforms in the second half of 1997.

What is VRML and how do I use it?

VRML stands for the Virual Reality Modeling Language, an industry-standard specification for 3D graphics and multimedia experiences. VRML can add a whole new dimension to your WorldWide web presence and set your content apart. Check out the Silicon Graphics VRML site for more information.

Does Silicon Graphics support Java Beans?

Silicon Graphics currently supports the Java 1.1.2 specification, which includes Java Beans. Also, the Cosmo Code visual builder lets you import Beans and use them to quickly create Java programs.

Is Java a real programming language - like C++ - only easier?

Java is a programming language. If you find Pascal hard, you won't care for Java. Writing in Java may be different in degree from C or C++, but it is not different in kind. Java is somewhat easier than C or C++ not because its syntax is any simpler but more because there are fewer surprises.

Does Silicon Graphics have a Java just-in-time compiler (JIT)?

Silicon Graphics JDK features a just-in-time compiler with impressive benchmark performance. We have been shipping a JIT since 1996 and had the first commercially-available JIT for any RISC processor.

Is Java completely cross-platform and portable?

Theoretically, yes. In practice, however, there are some gotchas. Some of the AWT peer implementations are inconsisent across platforms. Also, networking support is notoriously platform-dependent, whether the code is written in Java or not. To be 100% sure, always test your Java programs on every platform possible.

How can I make my Java programs run faster?

There are a number of programming tips to help speed Java programs. For more details, see our white paper on Performance Tuning Java.

How can Silicon Graphics make my Java programs run faster?

Silicon Graphics has a team of compiler engineers working on various solutions to the performance problems that currently plague Java. For one, we are investigating using native threads. Also, there are ways in which we can change garbage collection and improve the performance. For now, we have a fast JIT compiler that helps Java programs run faster by compiling them on-the-fly to native MIPS instructions.

Will Java replace C++?

Let's see ... the crystal ball says "ask again later." Seriously, this is a tough question. Java is an interesting language/environment with a unique set of advantages and disadvantages. C++, Ada95, and other object-oriented languages are likely to be around for quite a while, if nothing else because there are tremendous amounts of legacy code laying around. Also, there are some very advanced development tools out there for C++ not to mention the availability of skilled programmers. Java is a great language but that doesn't mean it will be the ultimate solution to every programming challenge.

How suitable is Java for serious server-side applications?

Once again, it depends. In many cases, Java code can replace CGI scripts, although security is a concern. Also, many companies are using Java for server apps because of its portability. Java Beans gives "business developers" an easy way to quickly create new Java applets, a particularly useful feature in corporate database intranet situations. The availability of JIT compilers and other performance-enhancing tools will increase Java's suitability for server apps.

Is Java the same as JavaScript?

Only in name, not in practice. JavaScript is a scripting language that can be used within an HTML page. It is similar in concept to shell languages like the Korn or Bourne shells or Perl. JavaScript commands appear as text within the HTML. Java code does not appear as part of the HTML. Instead, the HTML contains a link to the compiled code module.The syntax of Java and JavaScript are different as well. Java is more C++-like, where JavaScript looks more like ksh. In general, JavaScript is preferable when you want to manipulate the contents or behavior of an HTMLpage in simple ways. More dynamic or sophisticated behavior is better done within Java applets.

What's the best way to learn Java?

There are a ton of Java resources on the WorldWide Web, including self-paced tutorials and online books all the way to instructor-led training courses. The best solution for you depends on your background (do you know C++?) and your timeframe (do you have a day or a month?). Also, what are your goals - do you just want to know what all the fuss is about or do you hope to join the ranks of Java programmers? Look at our Java-related resources section for more pointers.

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