Creating Reports with iReports and JasperReports
June 23, 2005
JasperReports
The JasperReports engine is just that: a report engine. Tools from other providers are used to design the report content and layout. This approach gives the report developer flexibility in assembling a reporting toolbox that far exceeds the flexibility offered by traditional one-size-fits-all reporting tools. It is also possible to edit the report definition files by hand for the ultimate in customization.
Use the checklist below to assist you with installing required libraries and components for an end-to-end JasperReports development environment.
Setup Checklist
| Complete | Description | How to get it | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Java 1.4.2 SDK (SDK required as iReport uses tools.jar) | Download J2SE 1.4.2 from java.sun.com. | Install to local hard drive. (The directory created by the installer is called <java_dir> below.) | |
| iReports | Download iReport-0.4.1.zip from Sourceforge. | Extract to C:\Program Files\. (This directory is called <iReport_dir> below.) | |
| tools.jar | Located on your machine in the <java_dir>/lib/ directory created by Java 1.4.2 SDK installer. | Copy this file to your <iReport_dir>/lib/ directory. |
