February 19th, 2008
HD-DVD folds, Java comes out on top
The high-definition DVD wars are over and Blu-ray is the winner. While it doesn’t happen very often, in this case the technically superior choice won out over the cheaper and first-to-market leader. One of the best features of Blu-ray is a Java virtual machine and platform called BD-J.
BD-J is the latest in a long line of Java-based platforms designed for home entertainment. BD-J is based on the Globally Executable MHP (GEM), which forms the basis of most global digital television application standards. These include:
- Multimedia Home Platform (DVB-MHP) for broadcast, satellite, and cable worldwide
- OpenCable Application Platform (OCAP) for North American cable, and
- Advanced Common Application Platform (ACAP) for US broadcast
Information for developers specific to BD-J is sparse. Amazon lists a rather pricey book on Programming HD DVD and Blu-ray Disk, but I haven’t read it. The Blu-ray Application Development site has several guides and tutorials to get you started if you’re interested in Blu-ray development.
Since all GEM-based standards are built on top of Java technology, a good introductory book on Java is recommended as well. Keep in mind, though, that BD-J is a pared-down version of Java, so it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles you’ll find on the desktop versions like Generics. Some would say that’s a good thing.
Ed Burnette is a professional developer and author of several articles and books about computing including Hello, Android: Introducing Google's Mobile Development Platform, 2nd Edition. For disclosure of Ed's industry affiliations, click here or to view his full profile click here.
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