How to Run Java Apps From Python

Programmers sometimes find themselves having to work with programs from multiple languages.

Python is a programming language that is designed to let programmers create functional products quickly. Its syntax is less complex than other programming languages, and its data structures more flexible in their implementation. However, in the course of making your Python project, you may find yourself needing to launch Java apps. By using a module that allows Python to execute command line statements, such as invoking the Java virtual machine to launch a particular application, you can run Java apps from Python.

Instructions

1. Add the line "from subprocess import call" to the top of your Python source code file.

2. Set a variable to hold the Java app your Python program will launch, using the syntax "javaProgram = 'dir'" where "javaProgram" is the name you will give this variable and "dir" is the full directory path to the Java app.

3. Type the syntax "call('java +' javaProgram, shell = 'true')" to make your Python program launch the Java app.

References

• "Dive Into Python"; Mark Pilgrim; 2004
• Python Documentation: 17.1. Subprocess - Subprocess Management
• Swarthmore University Department of Computer Science: Compiling, Running and Debugging Java Programs