JDeveloper - Detailed Review
Coding Tools
JDeveloper - Product Overview
Introduction to Oracle JDeveloper
Oracle JDeveloper is a free, integrated development environment (IDE) provided by Oracle Corporation. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:
Primary Function
JDeveloper is designed to simplify the development of applications across various technologies, including Java, XML, SQL, PL/SQL, HTML, JavaScript, and BPEL. It supports the entire development lifecycle, from design and coding to debugging, optimization, profiling, and deployment.
Target Audience
JDeveloper is primarily used by developers and organizations that focus on building Java-based applications, particularly those leveraging the Oracle Application Development Framework (Oracle ADF). The user base includes companies from the Information Technology and Services industry, as well as the Computer Software sector. It is commonly used by companies with 50-200 employees and those with revenues exceeding $1 billion.
Key Features
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: JDeveloper runs on Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, and other UNIX-based systems.
- Visual and Declarative Development: It provides a visual and declarative approach to application development, making it easier to build applications without extensive coding.
- Multi-Technology Support: Supports various technology stacks including Java, SOA, Oracle WebCenter Portal, SQL and PL/SQL, HTML, and JavaScript.
- Full Development Lifecycle: Includes integrated features for modeling, coding, debugging, testing, profiling, tuning, and deploying applications.
- Extension Capabilities: Allows customization and additional functionality through extensions.
- Editions: Available in two editions: Oracle JDeveloper Studio (the complete version) and Oracle JDeveloper Java (core Java and XML features).
- Integration with Oracle ADF: Works closely with the Oracle Application Development Framework to simplify application development.
Additional Resources
For those looking to get started, Oracle provides various resources such as online demonstrations, tutorials, and the Oracle Technology Network (OTN) forum to help developers quickly adapt to JDeveloper.
In summary, Oracle JDeveloper is a comprehensive IDE that caters to the needs of developers working on a wide range of technologies, particularly within the Oracle ecosystem, and is well-suited for organizations of varying sizes.
JDeveloper - User Interface and Experience
User Interface
The user interface of JDeveloper is highly customizable and intuitive. Here are some key aspects:
Visual and Declarative Development
JDeveloper provides visual editors for HTML, JSP, JSF, and Swing, allowing developers to modify the layout and properties of components visually. Any changes in the code are immediately reflected in the visual view.
Windows and Navigators
The IDE includes various windows and navigators that can be displayed, hidden, docked, or undocked to create a personalized workspace. This includes Application and System navigators, a Structure window, and other work areas that help organize and view project contents.
Component Palette and Property Inspector
Developers can select user interface components from the Component Palette and set their properties using the Property Inspector, making it easier to assemble and configure UI elements.
Ease of Use
While JDeveloper is packed with features, its ease of use can vary depending on the user’s experience:
User-Friendly
Many users find JDeveloper to be user-friendly, especially for those familiar with Oracle technologies. It integrates well with Oracle databases and provides clear visual presentations.
Learning Curve
However, some users have noted that it can be difficult to use without guidance or assistance, particularly for new users. The software’s extensive features can sometimes make it overwhelming.
Performance Issues
There have been reports of performance issues, such as lag when running on certain hardware configurations or virtual machines, which can affect the overall user experience.
Overall User Experience
The overall user experience with JDeveloper is generally positive, especially for developers who work extensively with Java, SOA, and Oracle technologies:
Comprehensive Tools
JDeveloper offers a wide range of tools for the entire application lifecycle, including modeling, coding, debugging, testing, profiling, and deploying applications. This makes it a valuable tool for developers working on complex projects.
Integration and Community
The software integrates well with other Oracle tools and has a large community, which provides many tutorials and resources to help developers manage and use JDeveloper effectively.
Free and Cross-Platform
Being free and available on multiple operating systems (Windows, Linux, Mac OS X) adds to its appeal, making it accessible to a broad range of developers.
In summary, JDeveloper’s user interface is designed to be intuitive and feature-rich, although it may require some learning and adjustment, especially for new users. Its comprehensive set of tools and strong integration with Oracle technologies make it a valuable asset for many developers.
JDeveloper - Key Features and Functionality
Cross-Platform Compatibility
JDeveloper is a cross-platform IDE that runs on Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, and other UNIX-based systems, making it versatile for developers across different operating environments.Complete Development Lifecycle Support
JDeveloper supports the entire application development lifecycle, including modeling, coding, debugging, testing, profiling, tuning, and deploying applications. This integrated approach streamlines the development process.Visual and Declarative Development
JDeveloper provides a visual and declarative development approach, which simplifies the development process, especially when used in conjunction with Oracle ADF (Application Development Framework).Multi-Technology Stack Support
JDeveloper offers a consistent development environment for various technology stacks, including Java, SOA, Oracle WebCenter Portal, SQL and PL/SQL, HTML, and JavaScript. This flexibility allows developers to work on a wide range of projects using different technologies.Database Development
JDeveloper includes a full development and modeling environment for building database objects and stored procedures, which is particularly useful for database-centric applications.Application Deployment Options
The IDE provides a wide range of application deployment options, including the Integrated Oracle WebLogic Server, making it easier to deploy applications in different environments.Role-Based Customization
JDeveloper allows for role-based customization, where the environment can be tailored to specific development needs. This feature helps in optimizing performance and user experience by disabling unnecessary features and focusing on the relevant components for each project.Feature Management
Developers can manage features by adding or removing them based on the project requirements. This is done through the Manage Features and Updates dialog, which helps in keeping the IDE clutter-free and relevant to the current project.AI Integration
As of the current information, there is no explicit mention of AI-driven features integrated into Oracle JDeveloper. The resources provided do not indicate any AI-specific tools or functionalities within JDeveloper itself. If you are looking for AI integration in development tools, you might need to consider other platforms or additional tools that specialize in AI development, such as those mentioned in other contexts like JetBrains’ Assistant or Microsoft’s Semantic Kernel. JDeveloper - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
JDeveloper is a comprehensive IDE for Java development, offering a range of tools for analyzing and optimizing code performance. Here are some performance-related aspects:
Profiling Tools
JDeveloper includes a profiler that can monitor and log a running program’s use of processor and memory resources. It operates in three modes: Monitor, CPU, and Memory profiling, which help in diagnosing performance issues and correcting inefficiencies in the code.
Resource Utilization
The profiling tool can provide detailed data on application performance, including method execution times and memory allocation. However, this can introduce some overhead, which can be managed by defining root methods to limit the instrumentation.
Known Issues
There have been reports of performance issues with specific versions of JDeveloper, such as version 12.2.1.3, where tasks like code insight, importing classes, and pasting large amounts of code can cause significant delays and application hangs. These issues are not related to memory or garbage collection but rather to thread blocking and waiting.
Accuracy
In terms of accuracy, JDeveloper offers several tools that help ensure the quality and correctness of the code:
Unit Testing
JDeveloper supports JUnit for unit testing, which helps in performing regular and reliable tests. This is crucial for maintaining code accuracy and reliability.
Code Analysis Tools
Tools like CodeCoach, code audit, and code metrics provide quantitative analysis of the code. CodeCoach suggests improvements and fixes for coding errors, while code metrics measure aspects like depth of inheritance tree and cyclomatic complexity.
AI Integration
While JDeveloper itself does not natively include AI-driven coding tools, Oracle is developing AI-assisted tools like Oracle Code Assist, which can be integrated with other IDEs. These tools provide intelligent suggestions, dependency analysis, and error mitigation alternatives, though they are not yet native to JDeveloper.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Performance Issues
As mentioned, certain versions of JDeveloper have known performance issues that can hinder productivity. These need to be addressed to ensure a smoother development experience.
AI Integration
Currently, JDeveloper does not have built-in AI-driven coding tools. Integrating tools like GitHub Copilot, Amazon CodeWhisperer, or Tabnine, which are available for other IDEs, could significantly enhance its capabilities.
User Experience
Improving the responsiveness of the IDE, especially in tasks like code insight and class importing, would greatly enhance the user experience and overall productivity.
In summary, while JDeveloper offers strong performance and accuracy tools for traditional Java development, it could benefit from better performance optimization in certain versions and the integration of AI-driven coding tools to stay competitive with other modern IDEs.
JDeveloper - Pricing and Plans
Pricing
- Oracle JDeveloper is completely free to use. There are no costs associated with downloading, using, or deploying the software for development purposes.
Features
- JDeveloper offers a wide range of features for developing Java, XML, SQL, PL/SQL, HTML, JavaScript, BPEL, and PHP applications.
- It includes tools for the full development lifecycle, such as design, coding, debugging, optimization, and deployment.
- The IDE supports various technologies like Java SE, Java EE, JSP, JSF, EJB, Web Services, and more.
- It also integrates with Oracle Application Development Framework (Oracle ADF) and provides visual and declarative development tools.
Editions
- Prior to JDeveloper 11g, there were three editions: Java Edition, J2EE Edition, and Studio Edition. However, from JDeveloper 11g onwards, the features of the J2EE Edition are included in the Studio Edition. The current versions are primarily the Java Edition and the Studio Edition.
Summary
In summary, Oracle JDeveloper is a free IDE with no additional costs or tiered plans, making it accessible to all developers who need to create Java-based applications.
JDeveloper - Integration and Compatibility
Oracle JDeveloper Overview
Oracle JDeveloper is a versatile and integrated development environment (IDE) that offers extensive integration with various tools and ensures compatibility across multiple platforms.
Platform Compatibility
JDeveloper is a cross-platform IDE, meaning it can run on Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, and other UNIX-based systems. This broad compatibility makes it a flexible choice for developers working in different environments.
Integration with Oracle Tools and Technologies
JDeveloper is tightly integrated with the Oracle Fusion Middleware suite of products. It works seamlessly with the Oracle Application Development Framework (Oracle ADF), which simplifies Java EE-based application development. The IDE also integrates with other Oracle tools such as Oracle WebLogic Server, allowing for integrated runtime services for testing and deploying applications.
Support for Various Development Technologies
JDeveloper supports a wide range of development technologies, including Java, XML, SQL and PL/SQL, HTML, JavaScript, BPEL, and PHP. It provides features for modeling, coding, debugging, testing, profiling, tuning, and deploying applications across these technologies. For example, it includes visual and declarative development tools for HTML, JSP, JSF, and Swing, as well as tools for generating JSF and Struts page flows.
Version Control Integration
While JDeveloper has built-in support for Subversion (SVN) through the Java SVNKit, many users prefer to use external SVN clients like TortoiseSVN due to performance and usability reasons. However, JDeveloper allows integration with external tools, enabling users to add commands from third-party SVN clients to the IDE’s menu.
Customization and Extensions
JDeveloper offers significant customization options. Users can manage and disable features they do not need, optimizing the IDE for their specific projects. The IDE also supports extensions, allowing users to add additional functionality based on their development needs. This is facilitated through the core IDE’s API, which other Oracle tools and components use to build their design-time tools.
Deployment Options
JDeveloper provides a variety of application deployment options, including integrated Oracle WebLogic Server. This allows developers to run and test applications within the IDE before deploying them to a production environment.
Conclusion
In summary, Oracle JDeveloper is highly integrated with Oracle’s suite of development tools and technologies, offers broad platform compatibility, and supports a wide range of development technologies. Its customization and extension capabilities make it a versatile tool for various development needs.
JDeveloper - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support Options
Chat Support
Oracle JDeveloper provides chat support, which allows users to get immediate assistance with their queries.
Oracle Forums
Users can engage with the Oracle community through forums, where they can ask questions, contribute to discussions, and interact with other users. The JDeveloper-specific forum is a valuable resource for troubleshooting and learning from others.
Documentation and Guides
Extensive documentation is available, including user guides, tutorials, and online demonstrations. These resources help users get started and continue to develop their skills with JDeveloper.
Additional Resources
Tutorials and Online Demonstrations
Oracle provides step-by-step tutorials and online demonstrations that guide users through specific tasks and features within JDeveloper. These resources are particularly helpful for new users.
Sample Applications
The Summit sample applications are available, which demonstrate common use cases in Oracle ADF and other components of the Oracle technology stack. These samples help users see how different features can be implemented in real-world applications.
Oracle Technology Network (OTN) Forum
The OTN forum is a community-driven platform where users can find answers, share knowledge, and engage with other developers using JDeveloper.
Training and Resources
Oracle offers various training options, including resources listed on the Oracle JDeveloper main page, which include links to documentation, tutorials, and other supporting materials. This ensures users have multiple avenues to learn and improve their skills.
By leveraging these support options and resources, users of Oracle JDeveloper can ensure they have the help and information they need to effectively develop and deploy their applications.
JDeveloper - Pros and Cons
Advantages of JDeveloper
JDeveloper, an integrated development environment (IDE) from Oracle, offers several significant advantages that make it a valuable tool for developers, especially those working within the Oracle ecosystem.
Comprehensive Feature Set
JDeveloper is packed with innovative tools and advanced functionalities, including support for Java, SOA, BPM, and database development. It integrates seamlessly with Oracle’s full stack of products, such as WebLogic Application Server, Oracle Database, and Oracle Express.
End-to-End Development
It provides complete end-to-end development capabilities, covering every step of the application lifecycle, from coding and debugging to deploying and managing applications.
Integration with Other Tools
JDeveloper supports integration with version control systems like Git, Maven, and Ant, as well as testing frameworks like JUnit. This makes it easier for teams to collaborate and manage their projects efficiently.
Visual and Declarative Development
The IDE offers visual and declarative development tools, which simplify the creation of user interfaces and business logic. This includes features like code completion, refactoring, and code auditing.
Free to Use
JDeveloper is free, making it an attractive option for developers who need a comprehensive IDE without the additional cost.
Customer Support
Users have praised the customer support provided by Oracle, which includes both online and in-person support depending on the location.
Community Resources
The large Oracle community provides numerous tutorials and resources, making it easier for developers to learn and use JDeveloper effectively.
Disadvantages of JDeveloper
Despite its many advantages, JDeveloper also has some notable disadvantages that users should be aware of.
Performance Issues
One of the most common complaints is that JDeveloper can be slow and resource-intensive. It consumes a lot of RAM and disk space, which can lead to hangs, crashes, and slow performance, especially on less powerful hardware.
Complexity
The IDE is known for its steep learning curve. It requires a high level of expertise to use effectively, and beginners may find it challenging to get started without guidance.
Stability Issues
Users have reported issues with stability, including unexpected errors, auto-closure of the application, and corruption of files. These issues can result in the loss of work if there is no auto-save feature, which is currently missing.
Limited Evolution
There has been minimal evolution in JDeveloper over the past few years, with Oracle focusing mainly on bug fixes rather than new features. This has led some users to feel that the product has stalled.
Large Installer Size
The full installer for JDeveloper is quite large, close to 3GB, which can be a significant drawback for those with limited storage or bandwidth.
Vendor Lock-in
The software is tightly integrated with Oracle’s Java SDK, making it difficult to use with other Java environments like OpenJDK or Amazon Corretto.
In summary, while JDeveloper offers a rich set of features and strong integration with Oracle’s ecosystem, it comes with significant performance and usability challenges that potential users should consider.
JDeveloper - Comparison with Competitors
Unique Features of JDeveloper
- Oracle Ecosystem Integration: JDeveloper is tightly integrated with Oracle’s platform and applications, making it a strong choice for developers working within the Oracle ecosystem. It supports development in languages such as Java, XML, SQL, PL/SQL, JavaScript, HTML, BPEL, and PHP.
- End-to-End Development: JDeveloper simplifies the development of Java-based applications by addressing every step of the application lifecycle.
- Free and Feature-Rich: Despite being free, JDeveloper offers a range of features that are particularly useful for Oracle-centric development.
Potential Alternatives
GitHub Copilot
- Advanced AI-Powered Coding: GitHub Copilot offers advanced code autocompletion, context-aware suggestions, and automated code documentation generation. It also integrates well with popular IDEs like Visual Studio Code and JetBrains.
- Collaborative Features: Copilot provides features like pull request summarization, change description generation, and context-aware test suggestions, which are not as prominent in JDeveloper.
- Limitations: While Copilot is excellent for common coding tasks, it may lack some advanced features compared to newer alternatives and has limited customization options.
Amazon CodeWhisperer
- Comprehensive Code Suggestions: CodeWhisperer offers intelligent code suggestions, function completion, and automatic documentation generation. It also includes security scanning for potential vulnerabilities.
- IDE Integration: Like JDeveloper, CodeWhisperer integrates seamlessly with popular IDEs such as JetBrains and VS Code. However, it supports a broader range of programming languages.
- Cost: While there is a free plan, advanced features require a professional subscription, which might be a drawback for some developers.
Codeium
- Multi-Language Support: Codeium supports over 70 programming languages and offers features like autocomplete, chat, and search within the IDE. It is particularly easy to install and use within VS Code.
- Refactoring Capabilities: Codeium’s automated refactoring capabilities can significantly improve code efficiency and clarity, which is not a highlighted feature of JDeveloper.
- Cost: The free version has limited indexing and context awareness, with advanced features requiring a subscription.
AskCodi
- Versatility and Ease of Use: AskCodi is versatile and easy to use, supporting code generation, answering programming questions, and providing code suggestions. It integrates with IDEs like Visual Studio Code, PyCharm, and IntelliJ IDEA.
- Learning and Debugging: AskCodi is helpful for learning, debugging, and writing better code, which can be beneficial for developers looking for a more comprehensive tool beyond just coding assistance.
- Cost: The tool requires a monthly subscription for full access to its features, which could be a drawback for some users.
Key Differences
- AI Integration: JDeveloper does not have built-in AI coding assistants like GitHub Copilot, Amazon CodeWhisperer, Codeium, or AskCodi. These tools offer advanced AI-powered features that can significantly streamline the coding process.
- Language Support: While JDeveloper supports several languages, it is more focused on Oracle-specific technologies. Tools like Codeium and Amazon CodeWhisperer support a much broader range of programming languages.
- Community and Ecosystem: JDeveloper is highly regarded within the Oracle Java ecosystem, but tools like GitHub Copilot and Amazon CodeWhisperer have broader community support and integration with various IDEs and platforms.
JDeveloper - Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Oracle JDeveloper, along with detailed responses to each:
What is Oracle JDeveloper?
Oracle JDeveloper is an integrated development environment (IDE) provided by Oracle Corporation. It supports the full development lifecycle for various technologies, including Java, XML, SQL, PL/SQL, HTML, JavaScript, BPEL, and PHP. It is particularly integrated with the Oracle Application Development Framework (Oracle ADF) to simplify application development.
What are the key features of Oracle JDeveloper?
JDeveloper offers a wide range of features, including:
- Visual and declarative application development tools such as visual editors, structure panes, editing dialogs, and property inspectors.
- Support for Java SE, Java EE, and other technologies like SOA, Oracle WebCenter Portal, and SQL/PL/SQL.
- Integrated development and modeling environment for building database objects and stored procedures.
- Deployment options including Integrated Oracle WebLogic Server.
- Extension capabilities for customization and additional functionality.
What editions of Oracle JDeveloper are available?
Oracle JDeveloper is available in two editions:
- Oracle JDeveloper Studio Edition: This is the complete version, including all features such as ADF, SOA, and database development tools.
- Oracle JDeveloper Java Edition: This edition contains only the core Java and XML features, offering shorter download times.
How does JDeveloper support database development?
JDeveloper provides a full development and modeling environment for working with databases. You can use the database modeler for forward and reverse engineering of relational databases, and the SQL Developer tool for executing queries, object manipulation, and definition. It supports both Oracle Database and other third-party databases.
Can I use JDeveloper for mobile application development?
Yes, you can use JDeveloper for mobile application development. With Oracle ADF Mobile, you can create Android and iOS applications. JDeveloper integrates well with Oracle ADF Mobile to make mobile app development easier.
How do I configure proxy settings in JDeveloper?
To configure JDeveloper to use an automatic configuration script for proxy settings, go to Tools > Preferences > Web Browser and Proxy. Select the Proxy Settings tab, choose the Use Automatic Configuration Script option, and enter the complete URL to the script. You can then test the proxy to ensure it is correctly configured.
What are some common issues encountered with JDeveloper 12c?
Users have reported several issues with JDeveloper 12c, such as:
- The ADF Model Tester crashing JDeveloper and not taking bind variables.
- Problems with template rendering and nested templates.
- Issues with the IDE’s performance, particularly with 32-bit JVMs due to memory limitations.
- Inconsistent behavior in design mode and source code mode.
How can I migrate applications and projects to a newer version of JDeveloper?
You can migrate applications, projects, preferences, and settings from earlier versions of JDeveloper. For detailed instructions, refer to the Oracle documentation on migrating from a previous version to the latest version, such as migrating to Oracle JDeveloper 14c.
Where can I report issues or bugs in JDeveloper?
You can report issues or bugs in JDeveloper through Oracle’s support channels. This includes using My Oracle Support to submit service requests or participating in community forums and groups dedicated to JDeveloper and Oracle ADF.
Is Oracle JDeveloper free to use?
Yes, Oracle JDeveloper is free proprietary software for development and deployment. However, Oracle ADF has a runtime license when deployed outside of an Oracle Application Server.
JDeveloper - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Oracle JDeveloper
Oracle JDeveloper is a comprehensive Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that offers a wide range of tools and features, making it an excellent choice for developers working within the Oracle ecosystem.
Key Features and Benefits
Full Development Lifecycle Support
JDeveloper covers the entire development lifecycle, from design and analysis to coding, testing, and deployment. It integrates versioning, build, and deployment tools, ensuring seamless management of the application development process.
Visual and Declarative Development
The IDE features visual editors, property inspectors, and declarative dialogs that simplify the development process, reducing the need for tedious coding. This approach significantly boosts developers’ productivity.
Multi-Technology Support
JDeveloper supports development for Java, web, mobile, web services (REST & SOAP), and database applications. It includes tools for HTML5, JavaScript, CSS3, and integrates with Oracle Fusion Middleware components like SOA Suite, WebCenter, and BI solutions.
Database Development
The IDE includes a full database development environment for both Oracle and non-Oracle databases, with features like database modeling, SQL Developer capabilities, and an integrated PL/SQL editor.
Mobile and Web Development
JDeveloper enables the development of both on-device and web mobile applications through integration with the Oracle Mobile Application Framework. It also supports visual HTML editing and JSF visual editing.
Who Would Benefit Most
Oracle Ecosystem Developers
Developers who are already working with Oracle technologies, such as Oracle ADF, Oracle Fusion Middleware, and Oracle databases, will find JDeveloper particularly beneficial. The tight integration with these technologies streamlines the development process and enhances productivity.
Enterprise Application Developers
Those building enterprise-level applications will appreciate the comprehensive framework support, including ADF, which simplifies the connection between the user interface and the backend server. The built-in support for security, scalability, and integration is also a significant advantage.
Teams and Organizations
JDeveloper’s integrated team development features, including version management and integration with Oracle Developer Cloud Service, make it an excellent choice for teams and organizations looking to manage and collaborate on large-scale projects.
Overall Recommendation
Oracle JDeveloper is highly recommended for developers and organizations deeply invested in the Oracle technology stack. Its comprehensive set of tools, visual and declarative development approach, and full lifecycle support make it an ideal choice for building complex enterprise applications efficiently.
However, for developers who are not specifically working within the Oracle ecosystem, other IDEs like IntelliJ IDEA or Eclipse might offer more versatility and a broader range of community extensions.
In summary, JDeveloper is a powerful tool that significantly enhances the productivity of developers working on Oracle-based projects, making it a valuable asset for any team or organization leveraging Oracle technologies.