Coffee Talk

For reasons WAY beyond the scope of this blog, one of my current tasks at work is to create a Java interface for a large Perl application that we now are using. If it was up to me, I would stick with the Perl interface that already exists - but it isn't up to me.

I tossed around a couple of different options: create a SOAP interface, create Java apps that call Perl command-line utilities, create small (non-SOAP) client/server apps, etc. However, then I came across a set of modules that have given me a different perspective on the task that I need to accomplish.

The Inline module, coupled with Inline::Java allows you to call Java classes/methods right from your Perl code. Newer releases of the module allow you to directly call Perl modules FROM Java! One of the more impressive things about this module is that you can pass objects such as arrays or filehandles between the two languages!

While not perfect yet, this module provides an excellent way to create a bridge between Perl and Java. To many, this may not seem like a huge deal. To those of us in the corporate world, who have to live daily with "company standards", this can provide a powerful tool to help you accomplish tasks that may otherwise require a complete rewrite from one language to the other.

The module's documentation is good, but more examples and tips would make it even better! My plan is to document the helpful things that I learn while working with the module and submit them back to the Patrick LeBoutillier, the module's author. Check out this module and see what you think - and don't forget to share what you learn!

Posted by Brent Michalski at 08:47 AM  Permalink

This is a public forum. CMP Media and its affiliates are not responsible for and do not control what is posted herein. CMP Media makes no warranties or guarantees concerning any advice dispensed by its staff members or readers.

Community standards in this comment area do not permit hate language, excessive profanity, or other patently offensive language. Please be aware that all information posted to this comment area becomes the property of CMP Media LLC and may be edited and republished in print or electronic format as outlined in CMP Media's Terms of Service.

Important Note: This comment area is NOT intended for commercial messages or solicitations of business.