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JavaCheck | JavaCheck Technical Note


JavaCheck - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is JavaCheck?
A: JavaCheck 3.0 is a developer tool that ensures that applications and applets will be compatible with Java platforms and can therefore run on many types of devices. It does this by testing whether Java class files used by an application or applet conform to a particular Java platform API specification.

JavaCheck 3.0 provides support for the PersonalJavaTM Specification. PersonalJava has been designed specifically for network-connectable consumer devices used for communications, entertainment and mobile computing. Using JavaCheck allows application developers to create products and services on their desktops that will reach consumers using PersonalJava-enabled devices. They can do this without having to purchase devices and proprietary tools for development and testing. JavaCheck is easy to use and works side-by-side with popular third party Java development tools.

Q: How can I get JavaCheck?
A: JavaCheck 3.0 is now available for free on Sun's website at: http://java.sun.com/products/personaljava/javacheck.html. JavaCheck 3.0 will also be available through many third parties as part of their developer tool suites.

Q: What is a Platform Specification File?
A: JavaCheck uses a platform specification file as the definition of a Java platform. A platform specification file is written in SGML-compliant text and has an .spc file extension. JavaCheck reads a platform specification file to represent the platform in memory so a Java program's conformance to the platform can be assessed. Platform specification files are created or endorsed by Sun Microsystem for use with official Java specifications. JavaCheck includes a platform specification file for the PersonalJava platform so you can determine your code's conformance to the PersonalJava platform. For additional information on platform specification files, please refer to the documentation available with the product.

Q: Will other platform specification files be available for use with JavaCheck?
A: Yes, Sun hopes to provide platform specification files (.spc) for other Java platforms, as well as for some extensions to the Java platform. These .spc files will be available in future versions of JavaCheck. Information on future releases will be posted when available on Sun's website at: http://java.sun.com/products/personaljava.

Q: Why are there two versions of JavaCheck?
A: JavaCheck 3.0 comes in two configurations: one is command-line based, the other has a graphical user interface (GUI). Both provide the same utility.

Q:What are the differences between JavaCheck 2.0.1 and 3.0?
A: JavaCheck 3.0 now reports dependencies for fields and methods. This means that you will see fewer "modified" messages associated with the classes; only the specific usage of modified fields or methods will generate these errors. JavaCheck 3.0 now allows users to specify classpaths. this simplifies the process of specifying which classes should be checked. JavaCheck 3.0 also allows you to filter specific classes to load (e.g only load classes in package xx.yy). Finally, JavaCheck 3.0 allows yo to specify the action to be taken when duplicate classes are encountered.

Q: Can I use my spec files from JavaCheck 2.0.1 with JavaCheck 3.0?
A: No. The spec file format has changed. JavaCheck 2.0.1 will not be able to read the PersonalJava 1.1 specfile (pJava_1.1.0.spc). JavaCheck 3.0 will not properly read the PersonalJava 1.0.1 specfile (pJava1.0.spc).

Q: Where can I send comments on JavaCheck 3.0?
A: We always appreciate your feedback on our products. Please email comments and report bugs on JavaCheck 3.0 to: javacheck-comments@java.sun.com. Please note that this is not a technical support alias. For technical support questions, call (800) 774-9905 for US & Canada, or (407) 531-4475 for all other countries and press option 1. There is a charge per call for all technical support assistance.

Q: What is the difference between JavaCheck and JavaPureCheckTM?
A: JavaCheck is a conformance checking tool that reports whether a Java application or applet conforms to a given specification of a Java platform. JavaPureCheck tests that an application or applet is written using 100% Pure Java.