6
Network API
6 Network API
Network Connections
The J2ME platform on the Motorola C370, C450, and C550 series of handsets provides a variety of networking functionalities beyond those specified in MIDP. The additional networking protocols are added through the Generic Connection Interface in order to simplify the interface to the application as well as to reduce the need for additional classes. Most of the additional network connections are invoked using a runtime parameter similar to HTTP, reducing the learning curve for developers as well as the reducing potential application porting efforts. The following is a list of networking features for the Motorola C370, C450, and C550 series of handsets:
•HTTP
•TCP Sockets
•UDP Sockets
The standard networking protocol specified in MIDP 1.0 is HTTP. Although HTTP is useful and flexible for most data exchanges, many of the applications fall outside the standard request/response models of most browsers. Applications such as games and stock tickers require networking protocols with different characteristics. In order to accommodate these types of applications with reasonable efficiency, additional protocol stacks including UDP and TCP Sockets, have been added. These added networking functionalities not only provide the application developer with more communication options, it alleviates the need to perform inefficient workarounds for a strict HTTP environment. Other applications may also choose to take advantage of the bottom connector on the devices.
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