March 2006 – Page 12 – Kev's Development Toolbox

March 6, 2006

Thinking in Java 4th Edition now in bookstores

Thinking in Java is a classic Java book by Bruse Eckel. This is an awesome book, that goes far beyond the typical leanring Java books, because Bruce goes to some length to explain not just the how, but also the why.

If you want to get a more indepth understanding of the Java lanaguage and platform then this book is a definite ‘must read’ (however it may be too much information for someone just starting out with Java).

If you’ve come across this book before, then this 4th Edition of the book has been updated to cover Javav SE 5.0 features, and now weighs in at 1500 pages.

Previous editions of the book can be found for free electronic download on Bruce Eckle’s website, here.

Bruce was also recently interviewed on the Java Posse webcast, in which they talked about the book in some detail. The podcasts(2 parts) can be downloaded here.

March 6, 2006

Data encryption in Windows Vista

Windows Vista will include a data encryption service called ‘BitLocker Driver Encryption’, which is intended to protect personal data on a PC should be PC get stolen or fall into the wrong hands.

This is causing some concern from some governments, who are worried that this will make forensic access to PCs significantly harder. Microsoft has also stated that there are no ‘backdoors’ to get around the encryption, even for government access.

March 6, 2006

RIM settle with NTP

RIM have settled the patent infringement with patent owner NTP, for $612million. This is a one time payment to NTP, and the Blackberry service will now continue.

March 3, 2006

Josh Bloch’s and Neal Gafter’s Java Puzzlers

Josh Bloch has (in my opinion) one of the best Java books out there for improving your understanding of the Java Language – Effective Java

In the same vein Josh Bloch and Neal Gafter have been presenting ‘Java Puzzlers’ at JavaOne and other conferences, presenting an unusual snippet of code and challenging people to work out what the code does. JavaLobby have a recording of one of their sessions at JavaPolis.

Also, Bloch and Gafter released a book which is a collection of these code puzzles, which is well worth a look (it’s currently on my Amazon Wish List 🙂 – Java Puzzlers