Re: Supporting multiple APIs simultaneously

[Dalibor Topic]

Andrew John Hughes wrote:
> On Fri, 2004-07-02 at 14:10, Dalibor Topic wrote:

Hi Andrew,

> Well, my suggestion would be that the branches are more for the benefit
> of users rather than developers.  Correct me if I'm wrong, but the
> japitools comparisons suggest that 1.1 is just about supported.  This
> would seem to be a solid base to give to those who want something to
> work with, at least for the time being, as a Java replacement without
> having to wonder about holes.  As far as developers go, I would expect
> focus to mainly stay on 1.4 as it is now, with appropriate patches that
> also cover 1.1 being added there.  However, if you think that would be
> too much effort, then I can see your point to an extent.  I do think
> there is something to be said for giving users something more stable
> though, rather than the kind of random implementation guarantees we give
> now.

Japitools only says which APIs can be compiled against, it says nothing 
about the spec-adherence of the implementation (the dreaded FIXMEs! ;).

There are no guarantees because noone stepped up to the plate to provide 
them. If you want to be the one, great! If you feel that you can pull 
off making Classpath implement the remaining bits for 1.1, and closing 
the holes, more power to you. Just keep the patches, mauve tests, and so 
on flowing in, and everyone will be happy.

cheers,
dalibor topic