What are JavaBeans?
JavaBeans are software components for the Java programming language. They are reusable and are designed to easily transfer GUI classes. They are now also used for data transfer via containers.
A JavaBean is a software component with which graphical user interfaces can be generated (“instantiated”) and transmitted. They actually works as a standard within the Java – programming language . This means that it is reusable – it is a generally working addition that simply needs to be deployed.
Ideally, there is no need to write a line of code for the adaptation. The JavaBean supports RMI (Remote Method Invocation), i.e. the calling of remote methods. It is therefore also suitable for transferring data via containers . It offers the structure necessary for this.
How a JavaBean works: a simple example
Java is an object-oriented programming language. This means that the architecture of the software consists of objects that are oriented towards the section of reality that the program affects. The term is a bit misleading: Objects can also contain “functions” or “methods”. It is also possible to change the state of the objects using “procedures”. They don’t have to be rigid entities.
From this arises the need for the development to tailor objects individually. For example, Java is used for web development, for desktop applications and for smartphone applications. It goes without saying that different qualities are required here. Problematically, however, there is also the need to be visually and functionally identical to the outside world.
As an example: An online shop would like to design a login area. This should look and work on the web just like an app. In addition, the data entered for registration on the mobile phone should also work on the web – and vice versa. This is where the JavaBean intervenes – as a standardized software component, it enables the forms to be designed in a uniform manner and to enable data transfer.
It has the following properties for this:
- public parameterless constructor (meaning that the JavaBean can be used to create objects, but it is not specified how this should be done)
- Public Getters (public query possible)
- Public Setters (public changes possible)
- Serializability (shown in a row in order to be able to identify the JavaBeans and their jobs more easily)
- Reusability through inheritance (the new “bean” seamlessly takes over the tasks of the one it replaces)