Running Java in the Open Labs

These directions are for running Java tools in the open labs (first floor of CCT or 24-hour lab in the Health and Safety building). If you're not in one of the open labs you do not need to do any of this. Hopefully these directions will become obsolete by Summer 2006.

Running BlueJ: BlueJ is the only Java tool that's ready to use in the open labs without having to do any additional configuration. Just click on the Start button, then Programs, then the BlueJ folder, and finally the BlueJ icon.

Running Crimson Editor and TextPad: Before you can run Crimson Editor or TextPad you have to update the CLASSPATH environment variable in Windows. This may seem complicated at first but once you've done it a couple of times it goes pretty quickly. You will need to do this every time you log on to an open lab PC if you want to use Crimson Editor or TextPad.

Here's how: Click the Start button, then Settings, then Control Panel, then System. Click the Advanced tab and click the Environment Variables button. Under "System variables" select the Classpath environment variable and click on the Edit button. Press the Home key which places the cursor at the beginning of the Variable value and type  .;   (a period followed by a semicolon). Click the OK button on all the windows as you make your way back out.

Running Crimson Editor: After you've updated the CLASSPATH you can launch Crimson Editor by clicking on the icon that looks like a dog face located right next to the Start button. Then you need to proceed to Install Crimson Editor Tools.

Running TextPad: TextPad isn't installed in the open labs but you can install it quickly and it requires no further configuration. After you've updated the CLASSPATH, click here to install TextPad (just click "Next" and "I agree" as prompted).