Getting started

This section shows you how to setup the Java™ ME development environment, create a simple HelloWorld MIDlet for Series 40 and Nokia Asha software platform devices, and has instructions for creating the MIDlet in Nokia IDE for Java ME (Eclipse) and NetBeans.

Figure: HelloWorld MIDlet running on a Series 40 (left) and Nokia Asha software platform device (right)

System requirements

Before setting up the development environment, make sure your computer meets the following minimum requirements:

Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, or 7
2.6 GHz Intel Pentium IV processor
2 GB RAM
3 GB of free disk space (or more if you plan to install multiple SDKs)

Setting up the development environment

Before you can create your first MIDlet, you need to set up the software for developing and deploying MIDlets, that is, the Java ME development environment. Install an integrated development environment (IDE) to create the MIDlet. Nokia recommends using either Nokia IDE for Java ME (Eclipse) or NetBeans IDE ("NetBeans"). If you are new to Java ME development or have no previous experience of either IDE, consider the highlights of both IDEs.

The following table contains the highlights of Nokia IDE for Java ME (Eclipse) and NetBeans.

IDE	Highlights
Nokia IDE for Java ME (Eclipse)	Integrated IDE and SDK in one package Easy to install Supports a large variety of plug-ins for application development
NetBeans	Intuitive user interface with clear menus and window placement Integrated Java ME support Can be used to deploy MIDlets to devices

Depending on your choice, you can refer the following sections:

After you have created and deployed the HelloWorld MIDlet, take a look at further developer resources provided by the Java Developer's Library.

You can download the Nokia IDE and NetBeans project files for the HelloWorld MIDlet from the MIDlet download page.