JavaOS Operating System

The JavaOS operating system is specifically designed to run network computers such as the JavaStation computer. The compact architecture of the JavaOS software provides the following advantages:

• Minimum JavaStation memory requirements - JavaOS software has a small runtime footprint that conserves memory space and reduces memory costs.

• Short download times - The compact size of the JavaOS software reduces the time needed to download software to the JavaStation computers.

• Ease of training - The JavaOS feature set reduces user training on core OS functionality, enabling trainers to spend more time on application functionality.

• Customization - The JavaOS software supports customization of the JavaStation user's desktop environment through static linking or dynamic loading (see the following descriptions).

Statically Linking the User Application to JavaOS

The JavaOS operating system supports linking of application files to the JavaOS binary via a special build you can execute at the command line. The JavaOS image resulting from the new build can be downloaded to JavaStation computers in exactly the same way as the old image, with exactly the same core functionality. However, in addition, the user application will be launched automatically when the JavaOS software boots.

Static linking is useful when the JavaStation computer is a public kiosk or other fixed-function device running a single, dedicated application. For instructions on using the static link procedure, see "Using SLK".

Dynamically Loading the User Application in JavaOS

Dynamic loading is similar to static linking, in that it enables the user application to be launched immediately when the JavaOS software boots. However, in this case the application is not physically linked to the JavaOS image; rather, the JavaOS software finds and downloads the application from a network server via HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP) immediately after it boots. Because HTTP is used to download the application, the application can reside anywhere on the network that is visible to the JavaStation web server.

The dynamic loading scenario is not limited to a single application. If you like, JavaOS can open a dialog window with a list of applications for the user to choose from. When the user selects an application, JavaOS locates and launches it.

Dynamic loading works in any situation where the JavaStation computer has web access. For instructions on using the dynamic loading procedure, see "Setting Up Dynamic Delivery of an Application ".