Java Activation Framework Tutorial

Java is an object-oriented language.

Java, like other object-oriented languages, runs on a framework of activating specific instances of programming objects. These objects serve as a kind of mold and model, from which the programmer can customize for the specific application.

Classes

The model, or blueprint, for a programming object is called a "class." Program windows, buttons and data structures are some examples of Java classes.

Instances

Specific implementations of classes are called "instances." While the model classes are generic, instances are unique. One common analogy used to clarify the relationship between the two is cars. Every make and model on your block is a car, but your car and your neighbor's vehicle are unique instances of the concept of a "car."

Activating

You activate a Java object by declaring a new instance with the associated parameters. For example, to activate a new instance of the class "Car" entitled "myCar" you would use the syntax "Car myCar = new Car();" to create and activate the object.

References

• The Java Tutorials: What Is a Class?
• The Java Tutorials: Objects