Now is a great time to start out with JavaFX. At the time of writting this, only the preview release is available, but that will be enough to get started with. We find it can actually be better to start learning something new before the official release - it’s like starting at the shallow end, and gradually moving in deeper as the laguage and tools develop over time.
Before you can install the preview release of the JavaFX SDK (Software Development Kit) you need to have the most recent stable Java JDK (Java Development Kit) installed (around 72Mb download) - Apple users can get it the Mac Java JDK here.
Once you have downloaded and installed the Java SDK (if you do not already have it installed), it is time to get the JavaFX SDK. At present, this is available in two forms - either Netbeans 6.1 or Project Nile. Lets see which one is best for you..
Netbeans 6.1 with JavaFX
Netbeans is the IDE (Integrated Development Environment) provided free from Sun Microsystems. This is aimed at application developers and supports many programming laguages. Probably the best option if you already have experience with an IDE or programming. However, you could install this and Project Nile.
Get Netbeans from here
(Download size: 38 Mb)
To add JavaFX to a previously installed Netbeans 6.1, go here for instructions.
Note - It is hoped that a newer version of Netbeans with JavaFX will be available next month (December 08).
Project Nile
Project Nile comes with plugins for Adobe Photoshop CS3 and Adobe Illustrator CS3, and a selection of tools. The idea is to enable designers the ability to export designs for use in JavaFX (save graphics in a format useable with JavaFX, along with JavaFX scripts). It may be worth trying this out if you use Photoshop or Illustrator for your application interface designs. You can install this along with Netbeans.
Get Project Nile here (Download size: 16 Mb)
More information on how to test and use Project Nile can be found here.
Now that you have downloaded and installed everything you need, you may want to get started with some sample applications.
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