As a programming language, it allows software developers to write a variety of applications, including those for video, audio, animation and the other prerequisites for rich interactive media. The Java Virtual Machine also provides a built-in for downloading Java applications from the Internet. From an advertiser's perspective, Java is important because Java applications can handle rich interactive media files and run on any type of computer that has a Java-capable browser. Java applications require more processing power than applications written for specific hardware platforms, but Pentium II processors easily run Java media applications in a fast and responsive manner. The user's bandwidth also affects the amount of data that can be sent from the Web site to the browser.
More bandwidth allows the transfer of more data.
Greater bandwidth is necessary because richer media typically requires larger files, and most applications stipulate that the entire file be transferred to the user's PC before it can be played. However, on a connected PC with a 28.8 modem, downloading a 30-second video clip can range from several minutes to hours, depending on its quality, and very few viewers will want to wait that long to see an advertisement. With the latest compression technology, it is possible to use streaming media to download audio, animation and even low-quality video to users with a 28.8 or 56K modem. Server-side detection involves placing specialized software on the Web server to determine the capabilities of the requesting browser, for instance, to decide whether the browser can run Java applications. Most versions of browsers introduced in the past two years have this capability.