Sun's Java Desktop 2.0: at a glance

BANGALORE: The newly launched version of Java Desktop, a Linux-based desktop solution boasts of a hassle free installation experience. In a typical Linux environment, administrators mostly take care of the job of installing and configuring software and if one is working with different versions making Java-based software work smoothly may not be a cakewalk.

Sun's Java Desktop 2.0, however addresses all these problems, as it is pre-configured to work with open source applications like StarOffice and Mozilla. The software is built on an enterprise distribution of SUSE Linux Desktop 8.1, and the next version will use SUSE's 9.1 kernel. Said an online report.

The SUSE's version of GNOME user interface has been replaced by Sun's own GUI, which installs by default and is in line with the KDE's and GNOME's interface. Also bundled is GAIM a client for instant messaging, Ximian's Evolution an email client as well as a connector that will allow Evolution to use the Java system calendar server.

The product also provides server-side administration tools at no extra cost. These tools enable centralized configuration, deployment, and administration of the user desktop environment. In addition, Java Desktop System includes advanced developer tools to assist developers in creating Java-technology based applications for the desktop.

Pricing

According to the online report Sun's Java Desktop 2.0 system is priced at $100 per desktop per year. However, Sun has promotional pricing of $50 per desktop per year for the first year, until December 2004.

Sun's two-tiered iForce channel program allows partners to receive Web-based baseline certification courses at no charge.