Microsoft Releases Beta Of Java Conversion Tool

In its latest move to draw in Java developers, Microsoft on Wednesday posted a beta release Wednesday of the newest version of its Java Language Conversion Assistant (JLCA), a tool for porting Java code and API calls to Visual C# and the .Net Framework.

JLCA 3.0 allows Java developers to convert J2EE 1.3 applications that include JSP (Java Server Page) and EJB (Enterprise JavaBeans) to Microsoft's own Visual C# language and the .Net Framework, the latter of which is required to run applications and services converted with JLCA 3.0.

Other Java technologies which can be translated to the .Net Framework and Visual C# include JAAS (Java Authentication and Authorization Service), JCE (Java Cryptography Extension), JMS (Java Message Service), JNDI (Java Naming and Directory Interface), and RMI (Remote Method Invocation).

Developers who want to join the beta program of JLCA 3.0 can log in to Microsoft's BetaPlace Web site. (a .Net Passport account is required), sign in as a guest (via this link), enter "JLCA3" as the guest ID, and click the "Java Language Conversion 3.0" link. A survey/registration form must be completed by the user and approved by Microsoft before access to the beta is given, the company said.