Question : J2ME

Hi, I have a question with J2ME (I'm new to this topic, go easy on me...), in particular in its running environment.   Since this API is designed primarily for mobile devices, does it HAVE TO be run from such devices or can can it be run from a desktop computer, just like when I'm dealing with J2SE (just to see if it works and to see what it does)?   Does J2ME provide such environment upon program execution?   The reason I'm asking is because I'm planning on writing some programs using J2ME API but don't own any mobile devices.   If someone can explain me where it can be ran from, I'd be greatly appreciated.

Answer : J2ME

You can develop and test your J2ME applications on your desktop.

You'll need to download the J2MEWTK (J2ME Wireless ToolKit) from Sun:

http://java.sun.com/products/j2mewtoolkit/download-2_1.html

(Note that you'll need the Java SDK installed before you install this - although it looks like you might alread have that.)

This toolkit provides a tool called ktoolbar that you can use to build and test your applications (MIDlets).  As you have identified, MIDlets are designed to be executed on mobile devices, so the toolkit provides an emulator (with different skins) to show your MIDlet running on an "on screen" device.