Since Java files are really text files which are compiled into bytecode and run by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), there are several options for writing your programs this semester. Remember that links to other Useful Downloads (e.g., programming editors) and Unix Information and Editors are located on the Help Page.

1. The easiest way is to use a programming editor to type in your Java programs on your local computer, then transfer the files to the FAS system using a secure FTP program. You can then connect through telnet, and compile and run them on FAS (Java is already installed there). All programs except Swing MUST be on FAS in order to submit them for your homework. To use this method, you may want to learn enough about one of the Unix text editors to be able to make any needed quick corrections to your files, or plan to update the file locally and re-transfer it.
   
   DO NOT use a word processor, e.g. Word or WordPerfect! They add lots of formatting characters which you never see, but which will prevent your programs from ever compiling. On Windows, you may use Wordpad and make sure you save the files as "Text Document" with the .java extension. If the system adds a ".txt" suffix, put quotes around your file name and extension in the Save box to prevent this. You may also try any of the editors in the Useful Downloads section. On the Mac, use BBEdit Lite (also in the Downloads section).
   
   
2. You can use a telnet program to connect into the FAS system, and write and edit your programs on the system. There are three Unix editors which you may try: pico, emacs, and vi. Once you've written your program and saved it, then, as above, you can compile and run it on FAS.
   
   
3. You can choose to write and compile on your own computer at home. If you wish to do this, you will need a programming editor to write the programs (see above under #1), as well as a JDK (Java Development Kit) to compile and run them. Thus, if you have a PC, you will need to download and install the SDK from Sun. You still must upload and run your programs on FAS to submit them for homework.
   
   
4. You can work on your home computer, but obtain a Java IDE (Integrated Development Environment), such as Borland's JBuilder, IBM's Visual Age for Java, MetroWerks' CodeWarrior, or even Sun's Studio. The IDE's are convenient because they'll contain a text editor, a compiler, the Java class libraries, and a debugger, all combined into one package. HOWEVER, at this level of study we do not recommend the use of an IDE.
   
   NOTE: Since we have provided you with FAS accounts to use for programming, the course staff will NOT be able to provide tech support for the various IDE's.