Hidden Java Classes You Should Discover for Better Coding
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Introduction to Uncommon Java Classes
Java boasts a multitude of built-in classes and functions that serve as vital tools for developers. Despite this, many of these invaluable resources remain unnoticed by Java programmers. Understanding these lesser-known classes can save you time and streamline your code.
Below, I've curated a list of six uncommon Java classes, along with their methods, that can be particularly beneficial throughout your coding endeavors.
Section 1: IntSummaryStatistics Class
The IntSummaryStatistics class is instrumental for the analysis and management of statistical data. It processes Integer objects and gathers essential insights such as sum and average.
Basics:
IntSummaryStatistics is primarily designed to work with streams, though it can also accept values via lists and iterators.
To instantiate an IntSummaryStatistics object, use the following syntax:
IntSummaryStatistics stats = new IntSummaryStatistics();
Methods:
Here are a few notable methods within the IntSummaryStatistics class. You can find additional methods online for a comprehensive understanding.
- accept(int value): Adds an integer to the statistics.
- getAverage(): Retrieves the average of all integers processed.
- getCount(): Returns the count of integers processed.
Example:
IntSummaryStatistics data = new IntSummaryStatistics();
List<Integer> nums = Arrays.asList(1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10);
Iterator<Integer> iter = nums.listIterator();
while (iter.hasNext()) {
data.accept(iter.next());
}
System.out.println("Average: " + data.getAverage());
System.out.println("Count: " + data.getCount());
Output:
Average: 5.5
Count: 10
Section 2: OptionalDouble Class
The OptionalDouble class serves as a container that may or may not hold a double value.
Basics:
If a double exists within the OptionalDouble, various methods can confirm its presence. It's advised to avoid identity-sensitive operations due to its value-based nature.
To create an OptionalDouble, utilize its static methods:
- To create without a value: OptionalDouble emptyVal = OptionalDouble.empty();
- To create with a value: OptionalDouble filledVal = OptionalDouble.of(15.0);
Methods:
Here are several methods for OptionalDouble:
- isPresent(): Checks if a value exists.
- getAsDouble(): Returns the contained value or throws an exception if absent.
Example:
OptionalDouble val2 = OptionalDouble.of(15.0);
System.out.println("A value is present: " + val2.isPresent());
System.out.println("Double contained: " + val2.getAsDouble());
Output:
A value is present: true
Double contained: 15.0
Section 3: SimpleTimeZone Class
The SimpleTimeZone class, a subclass of TimeZone, is tailored for the Gregorian calendar and incorporates daylight saving time rules.
Basics:
This class is essential for handling time and dates, especially concerning daylight saving time adjustments. You can retrieve different time zone offsets relative to UTC.
Basic Syntax:
SimpleTimeZone zone = new SimpleTimeZone(rawOffset, timeZoneID);
Methods:
Key methods include:
- clone(): Produces a copy of the SimpleTimeZone object.
- usesDaylightTime(): Indicates if the time zone observes daylight saving time.
Section 4: StringTokenizer Class
The StringTokenizer class facilitates breaking down a string into tokens (segments of the string).
Basics:
To use StringTokenizer, initiate it with a string and optionally specify delimiters. Tokens can then be accessed using the nextToken() method.
Example:
StringTokenizer tokenizer = new StringTokenizer("Tandrew is legit");
while (tokenizer.hasMoreTokens()) {
System.out.println(tokenizer.nextToken());
}
Output:
Tandrew
is
legit
Section 5: Hashtable Class
The Hashtable class links keys to specific values, forming key-value pairs.
Basics:
In a Hashtable, each key is hashed to determine where its corresponding value is stored.
Basic Syntax:
Hashtable<keyType, valType> table = new Hashtable<keyType, valType>();
Methods:
Key methods include:
- elements(): Returns an enumeration of all values in the table.
- get(Object key): Retrieves the value associated with the specified key.
Section 6: TimerTask Class
The TimerTask class allows for scheduled execution of tasks.
Basics:
Working alongside the Timer class, a TimerTask can be scheduled to perform actions after a specified delay.
Example:
TimerTask task = new TimerTask() {
@Override
public void run() {
System.out.println("Task executed!");}
};
Timer timer = new Timer();
timer.schedule(task, 10000); // Executes after 10 seconds
Conclusion
In summary, here are the highlighted classes:
- IntSummaryStatistics: For statistical data management.
- OptionalDouble: A container for double values.
- SimpleTimeZone: Handles time zones and daylight saving.
- StringTokenizer: Breaks strings into tokens.
- Hashtable: Maps keys to values.
- TimerTask: Executes scheduled tasks.
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