Vincent Perrier

This is the first in a two-part series on the benefits of using the Java development and runtime environment for embedded computing. Java, with its "write once, run anywhere" paradigm, is ideal for embedded computing because of its portability, reliability, security, and Internet capabilities. However, Java can present some challenges for embedded-systems developers. First, speed - Java applications are inherently slower than applications compiled into native machine code and embedded processors are generally less powerful than those found on desktops. There's no direct memory access and no interrupt handling, two features usually required for developing low-level software to control hardware, and Java can't easily run in real time, to name only a few of the issues. Despite its limitations, Java can be used effectively for embedded systems. In this article, I share ... (more)

A Reality for Java Embedded Computing

The Java development and runtime environment, with its "write once, run anywhere" paradigm, brings enormous advantages to the embedded industry. Java code is highly reliable, easily ported, and includes features such as Internet readiness, security, and the ability to download code at runtime to upgrade or extend applications. As such, it's ideal for Internet appliances (such as set-top boxes, Internet screen phones, or handheld devices) as well as traditional embedded devices (such as printers, medical devices, measurement and control instruments, telecommunication and data-com... (more)