Jfc: Java Foundation Classes

Sun Microsystems' new JFC Swing classes mean that Java applications can now compete with native applications in terms of functionality (if not performance). JFC: Java Foundation Classes gives you everything you need to develop with Swing in a readable and well-presented tutorial and reference.

The authors begin by showing the distinct advantages of Swing over its predecessor, AWT (the Abstract Window Toolkit). Swing raises the bar considerably with a host of new features, such as advanced controls, clipboard support, drag and drop, and accessibility features that rival native operating systems (such as Windows and Unix) for richness and functionality. The authors first look at basic Swing controls, such as buttons, labels, and menus, to get you accustomed to working with Swing. They describe and clearly explain each control type for the reader.

Further chapters explore the nature of Swing events, including Java Developer's Kit (JDK) 1.1/1.2 adapters and listeners. This lays the groundwork for looking at the more daunting Swing components, such as the table and the tree. Though the authors don't pay much attention to Swing's Model View Controller architecture (arguably an important part of understanding these components), they do present a good introduction to using these advanced controls.

The last sections of this book present some excellent advice to make Swing work better for you. These sections teach you how to access the clipboard, print, do database programming with Java Database Connectivity (JDBC), access a network, and even how to combine Swing with JavaBeans. The book closes with a handy reference to all Swing components and APIs, making this a useful reference, as well as a tutorial, for the Java developer who wants to get started using Swing. --Richard Dragan