Java & JavaScript

Hang on I hear you say, they're the same. Well not quite

You can use both to create things ranging from interactive functions such as games and graphics to real time stock tickers to full blown apps like databases. You can also create interactive images

You can also process some forms with them (with none of that messy CGI stuff !!!)

Not surprisingly, they can be used to add extra dynamics to a web site in a way you can't do with good old HTML.

But they are very different

Java is a programming language and was created by Sun Microsystems.

It is a compiled language, which means that it must be translated (ie. Compiled) into machine code before use

However is the beauty of Java is that the code is converted into machine code for a virtual machine (your browser) not a specific computer or operating system

Its big advantage is that it will run on almost any system

In terms of the web Java is coded in to programs called Applets, which can be triggered easily from the HTML page. Your browser will do all the hard work of setting up and running it (note most need a browser of the level of IE3 or Netscape 2 or higher to operate)

Below is a freeware link device created by Anibal Wainstein of the Mandomartis Software Company. Run your pointer over it and click on a link if you like. (this may not work depending on browser security settings)

Applets are good for complex activities (you can even buy a word processor package written in Java and that it takes up little in terms of your page space. However once triggered the applet needs to separately download often with a slight delay

To see more visit our Java Applet page

JavaScript comes from the stables of Netscape. Unlike its name sake it is interpreted language in that doesn't need to be translated or compiled its reader simply executes each line as it comes to it (much like a moviescript). The reader JavaScript's case (no prizes for guessing) is your browser.

The JavaScript is simply written into the HTML

Here is an example (our topical timer)

Again it therefore platform independent and will run on any computer (provide they have a Javascript enabled browser). As it is coded on the page it triggers as that is being loaded (hence quicker than an applet). It also allows for easy editing and debugging. It is not suitable for massive apps (it would cripple page length for starters") and requires a JavaScript enabled browser

The set of JavaScript commands have been revised over the years. The first set (JavaScript 1.0 ) runs on Netscape 2.0 or MSIE 3 or higher. The latest (JavaScript 1.3) commands only work on Netscape 4.5 or MSIE 5.

To see more visit ourJavaScript page

There has been a lot of press about the dangers of rogue Java applets but this appears to be mainly theoretical and a way of keeping antivirus software companies in business. However the potential danger does exist so be wary and make sure your PC is protected and that applets you put on your site are safe!!!.

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