What is this?

This is a repository to document the enhancement of a Java socket chat application. The original CLI code is taken from this codejava.net page. The original code is represented by the the first commit in this repository.

What is the enhancement?

The application has been enhanced with a JavaFX GUI.

How do I test this?

• Clone the repository: git clone https://github.com/abrie/JavaChatGUI.git

• Change into the repository directory, and build the components: make all

• Start the server: java server.ChatServer 9999

• Open a new terminal window, change to the repository directory, and start the frontend: java frontend.Frontend

The frontend application will spawn a GUI window. Change the connect parameters to match your server configuration. Use the defaults if you followed the above directions. Now set a username, and click connect.

If successful, you'll see a chat window. If not, check the console window for an error message.

Launch additional instances using java frontend.Frontend to add more users. Other computers on the LAN may also connect, assuming you know the server machine's IP and have a suitable firewall configuration (left as an exercise to the reader.)

To disconnect, type 'quit' as a chat message.

To completely exit, either hit CTRL-C in the terminal window, close the chat window, or turn off your computer. ;)

Why was this made?

The reasons are vague and might never be satisfactorily explained.

Questions, email abrhie@gmail.com