Guide - for Block Developers

The BDG is written for developers who want to create blocks for Phoenix. It is assumed that you are familiar with Java, XML, Avalon patterns and server side security issues. This book provides an overview of the underlying technology, Java classes and interfaces, component model, and behavior of server Blocks within Phoenix.

While this book concentrates on server fundamentals, it should not be construed as a “dummy's“ book. Server side programming is complex because of the performance and security issues you must balance.

You should be well versed in the Java language and have some practical experience developing server solutions. If you need a stronger background on server side programming, I suggest finding a good book on the subject (any suggestions?).

Here is how the information is presented. The first few chapters are foundational material, and describe the basic concepts you can use in your own blocks. The later chapters specify in detail the formal requirements of Block implementations.

1. What is a block?
2. What is a block listener?
3. What is an application listener?
4. How do I create a block?
5. How do I make my components phoenix-compatible?
6. BlockInfo specification
7. Using doclet tags to generate .xinfo files