Core J2ME Technology (Sun Microsystems Press) (Paperback)

The book begins by presenting the big picture, explaining what is meant by configurations and profiles in J2ME. The author then focuses on the CLDC (Connected Limited Device Configuration), describing how the Java language and virtual machine differs from that in Java 2 Standard Edition. The rest of the book drills down into the MIDP (Mobile Information Device Profile, which has specific APIs for mobile devices. There are chapters on installing and configuring the development environment, getting started with MIDlet applications, event handling and building a user interface. A detailed look at low-level graphics shows how to draw text and shapes on a Canvas object. Two chapters on the RMS (Record Management System) cover the vital topic of storing and retrieving data with the built-in record store, while the final chapters look at task scheduling, HTTP connectivity and developing specifically for Palm OS. The appendices include a quick reference to the CLDC and MIDP APIs.

John Muchow is a clear and methodical writer, taking the reader step-by-step through the various topics and offering numerous code examples. The book is sprinkled with photographs showing the software running on actual devices, as well as occasional diagrams and screenshots. Here is everything the Java developer needs to begin programming mobile devices.--Tim Anderson

With Nokia alone announcing deployment of 150 million phones running Sun's J2ME and Mobile Information Device Profile (MIDP), developer interest in these technologies is enormous. Now, there's an authoritative, example-rich technical resource that will enable every Java developer to build robust applications for any J2ME mobile device -- fast. Written by one of the world's most experienced Java developers and trainers, this hands-on book teaches J2ME and MIDP using more than 50 well-designed examples -- all of them clearly commented, thoroughly explained, and available for download on the Web. Core J2ME Technology covers everything a developer needs to get results. John Muchow begins with an overview of the J2ME, including configurations and profiles; then walks you through creating your complete J2ME development environment -- from downloading J2ME to troubleshooting. The book then provides exhaustive coverage of the MIDP programming interface: the basics of the MIDlet application lifecycle; event handling; low-level components; persistent storage; networking (including communication with servlets and session management); and more. The book also contains comprehensive references to both key elements of J2ME: MIDP and the Connected Limited Device Configuration (CLDC) specification. For all experienced Java developers who want to create mobile applications with J2ME.