Computer & Software related languages XML, HTML, Java, ASP C+, VC+, VC++,VB - Books

Core Java 2 , Volume 1 by Cay S. Horstmann, Gary Cornell
Editorial Reviews : Amazon.com
If you need to get something done in Java, Core Java 1.2, Volume 1--Fundamentals is one of the best books you can turn to for assistance. It's devoid of shaky, academic examples and packed with robust demonstrations that illustrate hundreds of powerful concepts.
This book begins with an explanation of the Java programming and execution environments in general terms and then provides specific examples of how to put key parts of the core packages to work. The authors back up the many examples with sharp, fact-rich commentary on how to get things done with Java. This volume covers data structures, object orientation, events, applets, input/output, and Swing.
A quick note: though the title of this book includes the words Java 1.2, the Java examples appear to be based on a very late beta and effectively cover what's now called Java 2. JavaSoft changed the name of the software during the final stages of testing--after the authors had finished this book. --David Wall

The Complete Java 2 Certification Study Guide by Simon Roberts, Philip Heller, Michael Ernest
Editorial Reviews : Amazon.com
Sun Java certification is no picnic, so a thorough study guide is essential. Look no further than The Complete Java 2 Certification Study Guide for formal, structured preparation. This bulky title offers comprehensive coverage of the objectives you must master to pass both the Programmer's Exam and the more demanding Developer's Exam.
Written by a trio of Sun Java course instructors, this book uses a straightforward bottom-up approach, starting with core syntax of Java and moving into progressively more graphical and sophisticated aspects of development. The familiar textbook style makes the title very suitable for self-paced study, even if you're not shooting for certification.
Each chapter includes a test, and the answers are explained. The authors use code snippets that are not overwhelming in length to keep their readers focused on the concept at hand. A large portion of the rear of the book is devoted to a Java 2 API reference, and the CD-ROM features a test limit to help you get psyched for the big exam. If you've got the time and dedication to master the material, this fine guide is all you need to get Sun's stamp of approval as a developer. --Stephen W. Plain
Topics covered: Java language fundamentals, objects and classes, event management, components, graphical user interfaces, database integration, thread management, and Remote Method Invocation (RMI).

Computer Graphics for Java Programmers
The publisher, John Wiley & Sons
Reinforcing concepts with useful and simple examples, this book explores both elementary and advance topics--from producing simple graphical objects to using applied geometry to create vectors and polygons and finally to rotating and transforming these graphical objects. It provides both classic graphics algorithms as well as particular effects such as perspective drawings. Ready-to-run programs and worked examples illuminate the principles and techniques for creating 2d and 3d objects.

Client/Server Data Access With Java ...
Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
This exciting tour of emerging Web technologies explains what Java and XML offer for the future of the Internet. Early chapters discuss the current state of the Internet, including HTTP, followed by a quick tour of Java technologies. The authors look at database standards such as SQL (for relational databases) and the Object Data Management Group (ODMG) 2 standard (for object databases).

The most hands-on part of this title examines how to implement a Web-based database using three different technologies: Java Database Connectivity (JDBC) for programming relational databases in Java; the emerging SQLJ standard for creating "embedded" SQL within Java code; and the ODMG Java binding for manipulating object-oriented databases directly in Java. Next, the authors look at providing HTML pages on the fly using Common Gateway Interface (CGI) and Java Servlets. Further sections introduce additional Java-based technologies, such as Remote Method Invocation (RMI), Java Object Request Brokers (ORBs), JavaBeans, and Enterprise JavaBeans.

Later in the book, the authors explore the intricacies of the XML standard for structuring content within Web browsers. They also detail the Java classes that permit developers to program with XML today. The final chapter concentrates once more on the future tense, with a tour of other emerging standards and technologies. --Richard Dragan

From Book News, Inc.
For database developers interested in using the two popular Web products and technologies for large corporate applications. Explains what the products are, how to program them, and how different and competing technologies can work together. The CD-ROM contains all the sample programs in the book and evaluation copies of the software products described. Book News, Inc.®, Portland, OR

Book Description
An authoritative insider's guide to Client/Server Data Access with Java and XML

Written by two of the foremost client/server and Java experts in the world, this powerful book/CD package is a vital programming tool for all database developers interested in using Java and XML Web products and technologies for large corporate applications. You'll find out what these products are, how to program them, and how different and competing technologies can work together. You will also receive detailed... read more

Beginning Java 2

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Beginning Java 2 is one of the two best introductory Java 2 books available. (The other is Peter van der Linden's Just Java 1.2.) Assuming nothing more than curiosity and tenacity, this book explains how to create programs with the Java programming language. And not just simple, academic programs either--the applets and applications that Ivor Horton describes in later chapters take advantage of the latest features of Java 2.

After a brief introduction to the characteristics of Java, Beginning Java 2 digs into variables, data types, operators, control structures, and basic Java syntax--the stuff you absolutely have to understand in order to get anything done. Horton then explains streams, files, and threads before getting into the graphical stuff, where he details how to build attractive, functional user interfaces with the Swing components (with solid coverage of the Java 2 event model). Later chapters address Java2D graphics and database connectivity. The author treats object orientation as integral to the rest of Java programming, which is appropriate to the language.

Readers get to see how concepts work, as regular Try It Out sections include illustrative code listings and the resulting output. The author and publisher deserve kudos for printing the complete source code of example programs rather than just key excerpts. These example programs also appear on the publisher's Web site. --David Wall

Book Description
This book has now been updated to cover JDK 1.3. This updated book is Beginning Java 2- JDK 1.3 edition, by Ivor Horton (ISBN- 1861003668).

The Java 2 platform, which is the release name for JDK 1.2, was released in December 1998. Java 2 is an important stage in the evolution of Java as a serious programming language. There are no substantial changes to the language - instead JavaSoft have focussed on extending class library support for common programming tasks.

Sams Teach Yourself Java 2 in 21 Days...
A well-organised tutorial to get you up to speed in Java February 18, 2000

Reviewer: Rohan Parkes (see more about me) from Melbourne, Australia
I found most of the content in the negative reviews here bewildering. To take some examples:
"The code doesn't compile" - yes it does.

"They teach you deprecated code" - yes they do. This is because if you want to write applets, you have to use deprecated code. This is reiterated frequently throughout the applet section. They also teach you Java 2 code.

"They don't explain the examples" - yes they do, often giving line-by-line explanations. There are a couple of early examples that use yet-to-be-explained code, but they tell you this (it would be impossible to write functioning code with all you learned in day 1).

"They don't build on a foundation" - yes they do. The class concept is clearly explained, then the syntax, data types, then you move onto applet writing.

I suspect most of the negative contributors here are merely venting their frustration.

My only problem with this type of book is that it is unrealistically titled - you will only get through it in 21 days if you don't have a day job, don't take notes, and dont' revise.

Other than that, it was one of the better tutorials in this series.

XML Bible

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
The emergence of XML is having an enormous impact on Web development, and scaling the learning curve of this new technology is a priority for many developers. The XML Bible offers a superb introduction to the subject and the groundwork to understand XML's future developments.

Author Elliotte Rusty Harold uses a patient, step-by-step discussion that clearly points out the potential of XML without boring his readership with tons of SGML spec-speak. Harold opens quickly with a "Hello World" example to get the reader coding early, and follows that with a simple but powerful example of XML's data management benefits--presenting baseball statistics. Once you've coded your first XML documents, you'll be hooked on the technology and motivated to learn about the more sophisticated topics.

Style sheet languages are covered comprehensively to illustrate the presentation possibilities and pitfalls. An unusually long list of real-life XML applications also shows how XML is already being used, and there is in-depth coverage of the Resource Description Framework, Channel Definition Format, and Vector Markup Language. The book wraps up with a section that helps you design your own XML application from scratch.

Titling a book a bible is a bold move, but this engaging and informative guide is entitled to make this claim. --Stephen W. Plain

Topics covered: XML background, example XML applications, type definitions (DTDs), style languages, Xlinks, Xpointers, Namespaces, application planning, and XML 1.0 specification.

The publisher, techpr@idgbooks.com , August 9, 1999
If XML can do it, you can do it too . . .
XML is revolutionizing Web-site development by making difficult tasks easier-and many tasks possible. Based on the latest W3C standards, this thorough tutorial-plus-reference takes you step by step through everything you need to know to put XML to work, from the fundamentals of the XML language to document construction and simple XML-based solutions for specialized markup problems. Numerous examples, specifications, and addresses for relevant Web sites leave no questions unanswered.

Professional XML
Professional XML
by Mark Birbeck, Michael Kay, stev Livingstone, Stephen F. Mohr, Didier Martin, Dino Esposito, Steven Livingston, Brian Loesgen, Nikola Ozu, Mark Seabourne

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
A serious look at how to use XML in sophisticated real-world Web applications, Professional XML goes beyond your run-of-the-mill tutorial by giving you practical examples and techniques.

The book focuses on W3C XML and the various enabling technologies that are becoming entwined with XML. It provides three threads of content, representing the different angles from which readers will approach XML. The first covers the core material, including well-formed syntax, data modeling, and the Document Object Model (DOM)--a critical programming interface to XML documents. The other two threads cover the most common usages of XML: as a data format and transport mechanism, and as a visual presentation language for human interaction.

The material is aimed at Web developers who already have a handle on standard Web architectures and are looking into what XML can add to the mix. Chapters on where XML fits into eBusiness and the Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) illustrate how powerfully XML can impact tomorrow's Internet-driven marketplace. Four case studies explore rather advanced applications as well.

While Professional XML provides an overview of XML, it's best to read it as a secondary resource after you get the basics from a traditional primer. This fine work will then propel you to the frontiers of XML technology. --Stephen W. Plain

Topics covered: XML syntax, Document Type Definitions (DTD), data modeling, Document Object Model (DOM), Simple API for XML (SAX) 1.0, namespaces, schemas, linking, XML--database integration, server to server transfers, eBusiness applications, Wireless Application Protocol (WAP), and SOAP.

Book Description
Professional XML is a broad compendium that investigates and describes how the total XML concept will work for programmers. XML, otherwise known as eXtensible Markup Language, is a rapidly maturing technology with powerful real-world applications, particularly for the management, display and organization of data.

This book's scope takes in XML, the Document Object Model, SAX, XSLT, and much more.

All major implementations are covered - Sun, Netscape and Microsoft - as well as the W3C standards. read more

XML by Example (By Example)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
XML by Example is a hands-on guide for those who already know the basics of HTML authoring but want a complete introduction to the exciting new world of XML. It lives up to its title, with plenty of examples of actual XML, HTML, JavaScript, and Java code. The author is an experienced trainer in XML and Internet technology, and the result is a particularly clear and well-informed tutorial.

Beginning with an overview of XML technology, the book goes on to explain XML syntax complete with a list of common errors and misunderstandings. Next comes an explanation of DTDs (Document Type Definitions) and then a guide to transforming XML into readable output with XSL (XML Stylesheet Language) and CSS (cascading style sheets). That accounts for the first half of the book. The second part focuses on the programmer's view of XML, with information on XML parsing, the DOM (Document Object Model), and SAX (Simple API for XML). Finally, there is a walkthrough of a multitier e-commerce application using XML and Java servlets. There is an appendix providing a crash-course introduction to Java.

Although it is aimed at XML newcomers, XML by Example covers a good bit of ground. Its fast pace makes it more demanding than some tutorials, but professionals will welcome its tight focus. A glossary and index round off the excellent handbook. --Tim Anderson, amazon.co.uk

Book Description
XML by Example teaches Web developers to make the most of XML with short, self-contained examples every step of the way. The book presumes knowledge of HTML, the Web, Web scripting, and covers such topics as: Document Type Definitions, Namespaces, Parser Debugging, XSL (Extensible Stylesheet Language), and DOM and SAX APIs. At the end, developers will review the concepts taught in the book by building a full, real-world e-commerce application.

Focuses on teaching XML, not its surrounding

XML Pocket Reference
Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Even hot dog Web coders proficient in XML need a little refresher once and a while. Although some portions of XML are still very fluid, the handy XML Pocket Reference offers quick access to the syntax and usage rules of this next-generation language.

At the front of the book, a crash course in XML quickly spells out the important terminology, along with extremely short examples of XML, Document Type Definition (DTD), and Extensible Stylesheet Language (XSL) documents. The book also includes a nice bulleted list of cautions and rules to follow if you want to create valid XML documents. A tip section entitled, "Unlearning Bad Habits" offers handy warnings that are especially useful for those of us who occasionally slip into sloppy HTML coding behaviors that XML won't tolerate.

The remainder of the title comprises reference sections devoted to XML, DTDs, XSL, XLink, and XPointer. These sections offer a balanced mix of both straight syntax references and brief general explanations of key topics. Short examples are in abundance to illustrate usage with accompanying explanatory text. The authors are very up-front about the changing nature of the XSL, XLink, and XPointer and point out that even their freshly published material on these subjects may soon be out of date.

You won't find any big-picture look at the importance or implementation of XML in the real world. However, if you're already sold on the technology and working with it, this little guide will be a handy companion. --Stephen W Plain

Topics covered: XML overview, well-formed XML rules, using elements and attributes, syntax and usage reference to XML, DTD, XSL, XLink, XPointer.

Book Description

XML, the Extensible Markup Language, is the next-generation markup language for the Web. It provides a more structured (and therefore more powerful) medium than HTML, allowing us to define new document types and stylesheets as needed. Although the generic tags of HTML are sufficient for everyday text, XML gives us a way to add rich, well-defined markup to electronic documents.

The XML Pocket Reference is both a handy introduction to XML terminology and syntax, and a quick reference to XML... read more.

Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 Reference...

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
The first of the three volumes in this box set, Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 Language Reference compiles all the language features of today's Visual Basic, from basic data types and built-in control types (their methods, properties, and events) to advanced material (such as conditional compilation directives). If you've ever had trouble remembering a string function or working with Visual Basic Variant, this first volume can help you get the right information fast.

The second volume, Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 Component Tools Guide, isn't a dictionary, but an in-depth, useful tutorial to Visual Basic programming--and even to deploying ActiveX components, the technological heart of Visual Basic. After a basic tour of ActiveX controls, the text introduces each of the more than two dozen built-in ActiveX controls that ship with Visual Basic 6, from fancy widgets, such as the new DateTimePicker and Coolbar controls, to older favorites, such as the Animation and UpDown controls.

Component Tools Guide looks at the considerable support for building ActiveX components--ActiveX servers (in both DLL and EXE formats), custom reusable ActiveX controls, and even ActiveX documents (suitable for use inside Internet Explorer 4). This guide discusses support for Internet applications using Dynamic HTML (DHMTL), how to connect to data sources in ActiveX controls, and how to build server-side components for Internet Information Server (IIS). You can still create "fat clients," but this reference shows you the better way to develop with Visual Basic using ActiveX and the Internet.

The last volume of the set, Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 Controls Reference, returns to reference mode with a convenient listing of the properties, events, and methods for more than two dozen standard Visual Basic controls, from user interface objects such as grids, list, and tree views to Internet transfer controls and those that provide database access. The book clearly explains each control's property, method, and event. --Rich Dragan

From Book News, Inc.
Three-volume reference taken from the online product documentation for Microsoft Visual Basic version 6.0. The language reference is an alphabetical listing for the objects, functions, statements, methods, properties and events; the controls reference contains alphabetical listings for the ActiveX controls, relevant properties, events, and methods; the component tools guide provides information about component tools, from add-ins and dynamic link libraries to ActiveX components. Book News,... read more

Book Description
This three-volume set written by the Visual Basic team covers the most commonly sought information about Visual Basic technology. The Language Reference provides A-Z listings for the objects, functions, statements, methods, properties, and events encompassed by the Visual Basic language. The Controls Reference describes the custom controls that ship with Visual Basic. Finally, the Component Tools Guide contains information about component tools, from add-ins and dynamic link libraries to... read more

Microsoft Mastering : Microsoft...

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Mastering Visual Basic 6.0 Development introduces readers to the bread and butter of the Visual Basic programmer: database access programs. With lots of detailed prose and many laboratory exercises, this book helps illuminate the new VB6 ways of connecting users to data; combines excellent documentation of the VB6 development environment with solid explanations of certain features of the VB language itself; and gives particularly heavy attention to the mechanics of creating ActiveX controls (including data-bound ones) and to the relatively new ActiveX Data Objects (ADO) strategy for managing connections to data repositories. In fact, the book earns its keep with its clear explanations of these topics alone.

The explanatory material combines descriptive prose with precise procedures, screen shots, and lists of options. Some code listings are included too, mostly utility subroutines that readers can borrow. The real strength of Microsoft Mastering: Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 Development lies in its liberal use of hands-on exercises (based on the contents of the companion CD-ROM) as a means of helping you understand the VB6 language and development environment. Though the exercises sometimes seem contrived (which, after all, they are), they'll familiarize you with various aspects of VB6. You'll know what to look for in reference books after working through the demonstrations presented here. --David Wall

Topics covered: Data tools that ship with Visual Basic 6, Component Object Model (COM) modules, ActiveX controls, ActiveX Data Objects (ADO), and VB data-access programs on the Internet.

Book Description
MICROSOFT MASTERING: MICROSOFT VISUAL BASIC 6.0 DEVELOPMENT offers skills-focused instruction for creating database applications using components. Intermediate-level developers work through the curriculum in print and on line. As they progress through essential development topics-including visual data access tools, class modules, ActiveX(r) controls, ActiveX Data Objects, COM components, Internet programming, and application deployment-the hands-on lab exercises reinforce learning and provide... read more

HTML 4 for the World Wide Web, Fourth...

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Whether you use a high-end authoring application like Dreamweaver, or in the most economical fashion you write your own code out in a text file, knowing your way around HTML comes in handy. HTML 4 for the World Wide Web: Visual QuickStart Guide will teach you what you need to know quickly.

The book covers the latest specifications of HTML 4 set by the World Wide Web Consortium, from the most basic tags that place text, images, and links on the page to more complex ones that set up tables, frames, or forms. New to this fourth edition, the book provides a chapter on debugging, including browser compatibility issues, expanded sections on cascading style sheets, JavaScript, and CGI scripts for use with forms.

As with all Visual QuickStart Guides, HTML 4 features clear and concise instructions side by side with well-captioned illustrations and screen shots that show both the source code and the resulting effect on the Web page. The index is extremely detailed, making this a good reference book for intermediate users who are already familiar with basic HTML but need help with specific topics.

The book also includes extensive and useful appendices. One offers a chart that describes each tag (along with its compatibility with Netscape Navigator and/or Microsoft Internet Explorer.) Other appendices show the code for special symbols, hexadecimal equivalents for RGB colors, and a comparison chart for some of the HTML editors on the market. All in all, this is the perfect desktop reference for Web designers. --Angelynn Grant

Topics covered: HTML code for creating Web pages, including formatting text, images, links, colors, tables, frames, forms, embedded multimedia clips, cascading style sheets, basic JavaScript actions like rollovers, finer points like drop caps and page counters, debugging code, browser compatibility issues, publishing pages on the Internet, registering with search engines. --This text refers to the textbook binding edition of this title

Book News, Inc.
A tutorial for novices and a reference for experienced users, featuring step-by-step instruction, tips, troubleshooting advice, and a visual approach with screenshots and code examples. This fourth edition contains a new debugging chapter, expanded coverage of cascading style sheets, a new section on attracting visitors to a web page, and a set of CGI scripts for processing forms. -- Copyright © 2000 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR All rights reserved

Book Description
HTML, short for HyperText Markup Language, is the lingua franca of the World Wide Web. Like any language, it keeps evolving, so while HTML 4 is the current standard, there is nevertheless need for a revised and expanded edition of the HTML 4 Visual QuickStart Guide. Resounding response to the first edition and strong word-of-mouth recommendations made it a worldwide bestseller. Among other additions, this fourth edition includes expanded coverage of working with JavaScripts and Cascading Style... read more

HTML: The Definitive Guide

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
In the most recent edition of this acclaimed HTML guide, Musciano and Kennedy look closely at every aspect of HTML and show how to use it wisely to create top-quality Web pages. The book is up-to-date, covering HTML 4, Netscape Navigator 4, Microsoft Internet Explorer 4, and the various extensions of each.

HTML: The Definitive Guide is aimed at beginners as well as those who have more practice in Web-page creation. The authors assume at least a basic knowledge of computers, including how to use a word processor or text editor and how to deal with files. They teach you that learning HTML is like learning any other language and that reading a book of rules can only take you so far. Readers begin writing what may be their first Web page just two pages into the book's second chapter. From there on, they provide a wide range of HTML coding to allow readers to learn from good examples. The book includes a handy "cheat sheet" of HTML codes for quick reference. --Elizabeth Lewis

From Book News, Inc.
Covers the latest standard, HTML 3.2, and all of the features supported by every popular Web browser, including the latest editions of Netscape and Internet Explorer. Explains how each element of HTML works and how it interacts with other elements, describes HTML style, and gives models for writing Web pages and mastering advanced features like style sheets and frames, with hundreds of examples of code. Includes reference appendices. For anyone from casual users to design professionals... read more

Book Description

HTML is changing so fast it's almost impossible to keep up with developments. How do you know what's real, and how do you use it? The third edition of HTML: The Definitive Guide brings it all together for you. It is the most comprehensive book available on HTML today. It covers Netscape Navigator 4.5, Internet Explorer 4.0, HTML, JavaScript, Style sheets, Layers, and all of the features supported by the popular Web browsers. Learning HTML is like learning any new language, computer or human.... read more

Creating Web Pages With Html Simplified

A solid way to start learning HTML May 13, 2000

Reviewer: A reader from Silicon Valley
I gave this book 4 stars only because an instruction book needs to fill all of my requirements to earn 5 stars. This book comes darn close.
The MaranGraphics instruction books for computer applications and education are generally superb for learning how to do something on a computer from scratch. This book will teach you how to program HTML and put up a very nice web site of your own.

My one gripe is that I would have liked to have worked on one project from the beginning, starting from blank page to finished web site, while seeing how each stage looks via the excellent graphics these books have. That was not the case. This book showed you the code, and what it's effect would be, but the pages were always different. Not something I could do and have it show just like in the book. Some of the other Maran Graphics books do just that.

Still, you won't go wrong if you pick this book to learn HTML. It is not the complete end all reference to HTML, but if you get that advanced you can buy one of those too.

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Harry Potter and the Order of The Phoenix

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