1 Introduction

This book is targeted for the Classic Edition. The Java Card 3 Platform consists of two editions.

The Classic Edition is based on an evolution of the Java Card Platform, Version 2.2.2 and is backward compatible with it, targeting resource-constrained devices that solely support applet-based applications. You may disregard the specifications for the Connected Edition if you are interested in the functionality found only in the Classic Edition.
The Connected Edition features a significantly enhanced runtime environment and a new virtual machine. It includes new network-oriented features, such as support for web applications, including the Java Servlet APIs, and also support for applets with extended and advanced capabilities. An application written for or an implementation of the Connected Edition may use features found in the Classic Edition. Therefore, you will need to use the specifications for both the Classic Edition and the Connected Edition.

1.1 Runtime Environment

The runtime environment (RE) for the Java Card 3 Platform, Version 3.0.4, comprises the Java Card virtual machine (VM), the Java Card Application Programming Interface (API) classes (and industry-specific extensions), and support services.

This document, the Runtime Environment Specification, Java Card 3 Platform, Version 3.0.4, Classic Edition, specifies the Java Card RE functionality required by Classic Edition of the Java Card technology. Any implementation of Java Card technology shall provide this necessary behavior and environment.