Loading the applet

Question

Hi All,
I've been asked to produce documentation for java card beginners. I'd like to double check much of what I write. Is this right: the easiest way to convert a class file to an applet and load it on to a card is to use a vendor package, like Gemplus's RAD III?
Is it any easier to do this using the latest java card kit than it was with 2.1.2, or is the vendor package still the way to go?
I suspect the vendor package will still get the nod. If so, which one is the one to go for? It may be that it is a case of six of the one or half a dozen of the other. I am only familiar with RAD III.
Does any one know how to load a pure java card application not importing or implemeting visa.openplatform but only importing javacard.framework? I'd like to make the first applet example as simple as possible.
Thanks
Chris

Answer 1

Most, if not all, vendors use the standard, Sun Converter. This is what converts your java class file into a CAP file. This cap file is what gets downloaded onto a JC. Since you get the Sun converter with the Sun JC kit, that's the easiest way to convert. I recommend this way to assure that the cap files you are generating are adhereing to standards. see VerifyCap. As far as a loader, you may develop your own OR use a vendor specific tool.
The Sun kit version is for the card, not client side. Therefore, you need to check the version of the card you are using. Currently most, if not all, are 2.1.x.
For starting out, I'd say use a vendor's kit. In my opinion there are only 2 good kits out there. I'd worry more about who can give you the better simulator, since they all provide a loader.
You only need to import visa.openplatform if you are implementing it in your applet. So if you don't use any openplatform, you won't need to import it. Keep in mind the implementation is already loaded onto your card.
To see a simple applet look at the Sun's HelloWorld applet.