Our world's embraced the digital era with open arms. Technology and software always surround us. They are implemented in almost everything, from social media to money transactions. This digital immersion has become our daily rhythm, from dawn to dusk.

Programming has emerged as the ultimate champion for this technology-driven world. It shapes and crafts the devices according to the specific needs and functions.  

Programmers become the creators of these innovative digital devices. They make out lives more accessible and more convenient. The more we crave, the wider the horizons of programming stretch.

Each programming language boasts its interpreter or compiler, transforming human-readable code into machine-understandable language.

One of the most popular programming languages in the world is Java. When you code in Java, your programs are translated into machine language. This transition makes sure that your code becomes executable by computers.

This blog will let you know the Java IDE compilers used for compiling Java code. We will also delve into the concept of abstract class in Java.

So, let us dive into this programming world and learn the beauty of Java language.

What are Java compilers?

A Java compiler transforms a developer's text file into a platform-independent Java file. It interprets and translates the written code from human-understandable text to machine-understandable code and allows for the execution of various functions. These compilers ensure that Java becomes universally functional regardless of the underlying platform.

The compiler's role comes into play as developers write code in a text file. The compiler processes this text-based code, converting it into a format that the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) comprehends.

Let us now talk about the types of Java compilers.

Types of Java Compilers

There are nine types of Java compilers. They are:

Javac: This is the default compiler included in the Java Development Kit (JDK), translating Java source code into bytecode for the JVM.

Edison Design Group: It is the company producing the EDG compiler. They focus on crafting compilers for preprocessing and parsing. EDG compiler is accessible on Windows, UNIX, and other operating systems. However, it isn't integrated with any IDE.

GCJ: GCJ, the GNU Compiler for Java, is a free compiler tailored for the Java Programming Language. It also can compile JAR files containing bytecode. However, it's important to note that GCJ is exclusively compatible with UNIX systems and lacks support for other operating systems like Windows. 

Additionally, GCJ is not seamlessly integrated into any integrated development environments (IDEs), setting it apart from other Java development tools. The GCJ platform is compatible with many programming languages other than Java. This makes it very useful for multiple functions.

ECJ: This Eclipse compiler is designed explicitly for Java programming within the Eclipse IDE. ECJ supports Windows and UNIX operating systems. Unlike the Javac compiler, which necessitates resolving all compile-time errors before proceeding, this Eclipse compiler offers the advantage of testing individual code segments for functionality even if other parts contain errors.

Furthermore, any compile-time errors in your Java source code when using the Eclipse compiler won't halt the process entirely; instead, they transition into runtime exceptions during execution. 

This behaviour contrasts with Javac, where all errors must be addressed before compilation. Notably, the Eclipse compiler operates in the background of the IDE, contributing to quicker compilation speeds than Javac.

Jikes: Dave Shields and Philippe Charles crafted the compiler under IBM's banner. Jikes handles the compilation of large projects well. Jikes made its debut in 1998, initially targeting Linux.

A notable drawback is that the Jikes compiler lacks compatibility with Java versions 5 and above due to a lack of updates from IBM. Its optimal functionality aligns with JDK 1.3 and earlier versions.

Power J: Sybase, later acquired by SAP, developed this Power J compiler. The program is available on Windows and can be easily integrated into IDEs.

JIT: JIT stands for "Just In Time" compiler. It enhances the performance of Java applications. By default, this compiler is always on standby. Whenever a Java method is invoked, JIT springs into action. 

It converts the method's bytecode into machine code. JIT is an integral part of the Java Runtime Environment. It works to boost performance while the program is running.

Client-side compilers: The C1 compiler is the client-side compiler. It gets activated with the –client option at JVM startup. This accelerates the initialization of small client programs.

Server-side Java compilers: This compiler serves server-side enterprise applications, a realm where the client-side counterpart falls short. The server-side compiler, named C2, is activated through the –server option during JVM startup. 

This lets your application utilize advanced algorithms and techniques essential for achieving optimal server-side performance.

Now that we have grasped the concept of Java compilers, let us talk about the Java IDE compiler.

What is a Java IDE compiler?

The Java IDE compiler transforms human-readable Java code into machine-readable bytecode or native code. It's a crucial component within the IDE that ensures the Java Virtual Machine or the underlying hardware can execute the code. 

This compilation process is an essential step in the software development cycle. It converts the programmer's instructions into a format understandable by the computer. 

The Java IDE compiler bridges the gap between human programming and machine execution. Java applications can now be highly productive and efficient because of their use.

Let us now move on to the next part of this blog i.e. abstract class in Java

Abstract class in Java

An abstract class in Java is defined by its declaration as "abstract." It accommodates both abstract and non-abstract methods. The abstract class requires an extension that mandates the implementation of its methods. 

Importantly, abstract classes cannot be directly instantiated. This class serves as a blueprint that guides the structure and behaviour of their subclasses.

Here are some points to keep in mind about abstract classes in Java:

• Declare an abstract class using the "abstract" keyword.
• A mix of abstract and non-abstract methods is allowed.
• Instantiation of abstract classes is not allowed.
• Constructors and static methods can be present.
• Incorporating final methods restricts the modifications that can be applied to the subclass.

Conclusion

In Java programming, understanding the Java IDE compiler is essential. This Java IDE compiler serves as a link between code that can be read by humans and instructions that machines can execute.

Furthermore, understanding the concept of abstract classes in Java adds flexibility to your software design.