First, you need to understand what applet components are requirements for your webpage . . . And then, the required HTML statement/instructions to bring your applet to life. You will then be able to install, modify and use these baby "Java Applications" with no difficulty.

After you have unzipped the applet download from AppletOrchard.com, you will find that it contains at least one .class file . . . This is the compiled Java program [there is no need to open the class files in any editor]. Some applets require muliple class files [as provided in the zipped file] and the linking between these files is automatic. But the primary ".class" file is always stated in the first line of the HTML source or markup tags.

Example:

<Applet code=whatever.class width=pixels height=pixels>
</Applet>

In its simplist form, the above is a complete applet statement/HTML source.

The code attribute is always required as is the width and height and, of course, the opening and closing applet tags.

There can be as many [or none] parameter specifications as provided by the developer of the applet. These settings can then be tweaked or customized by the website designer [you!]. Options could include: bgcolor, font, font size, font color, URLink, audio [.au only], images [.gif and .jpg], fade, text, etc.

Example:

<Param Name=BGcolor Value=0000ff>
<Param Name=Image Value=photo.gif>

Enter or copy the applet statement into your HTML Document. [If the applet HTML is not in the zipped file: right-click on the applet window/page - at AppletOrchard.com - select view source and copy it into your clipboard. Then paste it into your document.] Tweak or customize any available parameters. UpLoad the HTML document, along with the class file(s), and any required images, audio files, txt files, etc. to your server. Note: .class files and all non-text files must be transferred to your server in the *Binary* Mode. Make certain that the class file(s) are in the same directory as your web page! If you have any trouble running the applet then double-check your syntax, spelling [CapiTals must be CapiTals . . . applets are very case sensitive!] and the directory you placed your files.

One more thing, if you're hosting your site on one the popular free servers, make sure there aren't any special requirements for applets - Otherwise they may not run on your site.

Remember: not all browsers are created equal. Applets run better in IE.

Important: take note that the Java Virtual Machine for IE5 - the thing that executes the applets in your browser - is now an option at the time of download...get it! Oh yeah, and make certain that your browser's Java JIT Compilier is enabled.