Embedded Java
Embedded Java refers to specialized implementations of the Java programming language designed for use in embedded systems. Embedded systems are integral components of larger systems, often dedicated to specific control tasks within electrical, mechanical, or electronic hardware. These systems necessitate a computing platform that can efficiently operate under constraints such as limited processing power and memory.
Java Platform, Micro Edition
The Java Platform, Micro Edition (Java ME) is a key computing platform tailored for the development and deployment of portable applications on embedded and mobile devices. This edition simplifies the programming of microcontrollers and other small-scale devices, enabling developers to write applications that are both lightweight and robust.
Java ME is particularly popular in devices that require a high degree of portability, such as mobile phones, PDAs, and set-top boxes. It provides a subset of the Java APIs and includes specific libraries for the development of applications on constrained devices.
Java SE Embedded
Oracle has extended its standard Java platform to cater specifically to embedded systems with the release of Java SE Embedded. This variant allows the development of highly functional and reliable applications for modern embedded systems. Java SE Embedded incorporates features like HardFP ABI support, starting from version 7u40, offering options for both SoftFP and HardFP ABIs depending on the target platform's hardware and operating system configurations.
The last major release, Oracle Java SE 8 Embedded, signaled a shift in Oracle's strategy, as they decided not to continue a separate Java SE Embedded product download beyond JDK 9. Despite the discontinuation, the existing features and libraries have equipped developers with tools to create secure and innovative products efficiently.
Java Card
The Java Card technology represents another facet of Java in the embedded realm, focusing on secure elements like smart cards and other devices that require robust security measures. It is widely used in environments where secure transactions are paramount, such as banking and telecommunications.
Embedded JavaScript Connection
Though primarily associated with web development, Embedded JavaScript (EJS) has parallels in embedded systems, especially when scripts need to be dynamically executed or when HTML is templated within embedded environments.