Eclipse isn't the only open-source development tool for Java. Before Eclipse, it was NetBeans. Now, NetBeans 4 takes on the latest Java 5.0 features. It also incoporates improvements in a number of different areas, such as debugging and J2ME (Java 2 Micro Edition) support.
NetBeans handles J2ME MIDP 2.0 (Mobile Information Device Profile) and CLDC 1.1 (Connected Limited Device Configuration), including the addition of an MIDP project type. There's support for third-party emulators and integration with the J2ME Wireless Toolkit.
At the other end of the spectrum is J2EE (Java 2 Enterprise Edition). This version of NetBeans has enhanced support for two-tier Web application development.
Java 5.0 includes a number of enhancements, including new debugging hooks. NetBeans lets developers employ these hooks with the NetBeans debugger. New display filters and views arm developers with more refined diagnostic information.
General enhancements include a project system based on Apache Ant. Developers now can work with multiple projects. Refactoring additions cover class and package renaming.
NetBeans is a free download from the NetBeans Web site.
NetBeans.orgwww.netbeans.org