The files that you will need to download are quite large (the Java JDK and Eclipse downloads are roughly 50 and 90 megabytes, respectively), and so it is necessary that you have a fast internet connection. For people that have slow connections (e.g., telephone modem), then we can provide a limited number of CD's with the required software. Please contact your TA.

Installation Process

Download Java (JDK 5.0):

          Install the new java version available at: http://java.sun.com/j2se/1.5.0/download.jsp (select Download JDK 5.0 Update 4).  Be careful that you do not confuse the JRE with the JDK; you need the JDK. Once the download is complete, install java by clicking on the file you downloaded. This will lead you through the installation process.

 

Download Eclipse:

 

You can download Eclipse from http://www.eclipse.org/downloads.  It is extremely important you install the correct eclipse version.  You will find the appropriate version under the heading "Top-10 Eclipse Downloads" and by selecting the link "Eclipse SDK 3.0.2 (latest release)". 

 

Install Eclipse:

 

Unlike most modern software products, Eclipse does not have a fancy installation procedure. To install it, simply extract the zip file you downloaded in the directory where your programs are stored, e.g. C:\Program Files. This will create a directory named eclipse. The executable program file is located in this directory and is called "eclipse.exe". On Windows systems, it is a good idea to create a shortcut to this executable on your desktop. To do this, right-click on the "eclipse.exe" file and select "Send To → Desktop".

 

Initializing Eclipse:

 

Eclipse stores all its files in a directory called its "workspace". When Eclipse is run for the first time, it will ask you where you want the workspace to be placed. You can just use the default location (which will be in the directory where eclipse was installed). Some people find it more convenient to place the workspace somewhere in their "My Documents" directory, e.g. "My Documents\Eclipse".

 

Downloading Required Plug-ins:

 

Eclipse's functionality can be expanded by using plug-ins. For this course we need to download a few plugins (the course project management and Dr. Java are critical). In order to install these plug-ins, first launch Eclipse. Then follow the instructions provided in following the web site:

http://www.cs.umd.edu/~pugh/eclipse/

After installing the new plug-ins, you will need to restart Eclipse. One way to check that you have succeeded in downloading the plug-ins is (after restarting Eclipse), select the menu items

Window → Open Perspective → Other

You should see "DrJava" on the list. (Note, this is different from "Java" and "Java Browsing", which may also be on the list.) If so, you are ready to go!

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