Java is the perfect match for internet of things apps

The rise of the internet of things

The internet of things and the rise of M2M ecosystems are in the process of converging with big data and cloud computing, which requires a seamless platform that runs from the device to the data center with Java. Oracle offers a secure, comprehensive, integrated platform for the whole IoT architecture across all vertical markets, with key features that include:

• Faster market time
• Real-time response capabilities for millions of devices
• IT systems integration
• End-to-end security
• Worldwide, coordinated partner ecosystem
• End-to-end compatibility, as well as lifecycle management

Java, the go-to language for the internet of things

Java remains the number one choice among developers and is the leading development platform in the world, with millions of Java developers worldwide. It’s the go-to language for IoT apps. According to Oracle, one of the biggest perks of Java is the robustness of the app code. While C makes use of explicit pointers to reference memory, all object references in Java are implicit pointers that could not be manipulated by app code. This rules out potential concerns automatically, such as memory access violations, which could inevitably cause an app to stop suddenly.

Developers choose Java for IoT gateways

A recent survey suggests that Java is gaining strength for developing embedded IoT apps. Java programmers are often using the programming language for IoT gateways. The data makes clear that a huge percentage of Java developers are working on IoT or planning to work on or partner for IoT efforts.

The Java programming software was designed to be easy to use and thus easy to write, compile, debug and learn compared to other programming languages. This helps in creating modular programs, as well as reusable code. One of the most significant benefits of the Java language is its ability to move easily from computer system to computer system.

Top reasons to use Java in embedded apps

1. It makes use of the extensive library of standard APIs. Java SE7 has almost 4,000 standard APIs, which can be used for anything from networking to concurrency. What this means is that one already has almost everything needed written already and there is no need for minimal rewrites to make the applications work.
2. To be platform independent. Java enables writing one and running apps on any other application. This means that one could use it on desktops and embedded systems, with no worries on platforms or devices where it’s going to run. Furthermore, even if porting the app to a later Java version, all it takes is to recompile the code.
3. It avoids segmentation fault. Java is one very robust app programming language. Unlike C or C++, Java uses implicit pointers for all object references, which helps avoid buffer overruns, violations of memory access and other possible problems that could cause the app to hang or stop. Java, in effect, can help avoid a whole lot of headaches.
4. The language is low maintenance. Java can be run with only 64 MB of RAM on a machine that runs Windows XP. Embedded machines have better specifications, meaning that Java applications could run on these systems efficiently. As a matter of fact, the Java ME Embedded from Oracle runs on systems with just 130 KB of RAM and 350 KB of ROM.
5. To forget the small things. The Java virtual machine can deal automatically with memory management, so there is no need to keep track of object references or reallocate memory manually. Ultimately, one could avoid memory leaks. The Java virtual machine can also handle concurrency support.
6. To deploy applications anywhere, easily. Embedded systems are not the same as desktop computers as typically they do not have screens or displays. Java enables using a desktop or laptop computer for developing the app and then deploying it somewhere else. One could compile the code anywhere, with no need to write complex cross-compilation codes. Furthermore, one could use remote debugging to work out errors in the deployed applications.
7. To become more productive with Java. Working with Java allows one to have the best tools in the market. One can use Eclipse or NetBeans to make writing code not just easier, but faster as well. One could have code automatically completed and the syntax could be checked instinctively even before one finishes typing it out. With no need to rely on text editors , one could cut development time drastically.
8. Java is everywhere. Java can be used anywhere, and it is everywhere — from device to data center. The embedded system would be networked to other embedded systems and a data center where the data that it gathers can be analyzed, compiled and then searched. The great news is that enterprise-level apps are also written using the Java platform.

Why Java is needed for IoT

Java is a platform that offers network portability. It’s also one of the few programming languages that developers can easily learn. These two aspects merge to make Java the perfect program to help devices connect. Almost all devices, from personal computers to mobile phones, use Java. It’s an integral part of the internet world, making it a great choice for the internet of things. It offers every device the best functionality level and gives it a high security level, as well as a good amount of scalability in the industry.

Java developers and programmers are working on developing innovative IoT applications, which help in achieving the goal of a connected world. Java programmers jobs are plentiful, thus there is always room for more talent to join.

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