Blackberry App Creatation / Programming?

[ModderXstatic]

Hello Everyone,
I was wondering how hard it was to write an App for the Blackberry's. You can download the development software right from Blackberry, but how hard is it really to write a simple program for the phones? Has anyone done this, and if so could you please share your thoughts on this subject?

[Xopher]

If you know Java development, it is pretty straight forward. I had been programming in other languages prior to developing for BlackBerry - mostly Pascal and Object Pascal, both are somewhat similar to Java, so it was a quick transition for me.

If you haven't programmed before, there was a topic on the blog (about 1 year or two ago) that had a good list of books to get on Java programming.

Once you have all the tools, you will need to purchase a set of signing keys. You can develop an app and test it in the simulators. If your app needs access to any personal data or data connections, you'll have to sign it before deploying the app to actual devices.

[ModderXstatic]

Very cool! Where can I get all these tools for the development? Can you please provide me with links and such info? Also, how much are the signing keys, when I purchase them are there a limited amount? I have never done this before, and this will be my first programming adventure! I have done plenty of webpage design and applications like that but never actual programming in itself. Is it fairly easy to pick up if you are literate with computers? I have an A+ Certification in PC's so I know what I'm doing when it comes to computers. If you could, can you provide me with links or the names of the tools I would need to create apps?

Thanks in Advance!

[maxqtime]

For anyone wanting to learn java and new to programming I suggest the programming methodology course through acedemicearth.org (its free). You can also look at the blackberry developer zone on the official blackberry website for tools and tutorials

Posted from my CrackBerry at wapforums.crackberry.com

[ModderXstatic]

@ MaxQtime, thanks for the info! Both of you have been a great help!