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You've probably heard of JRuby. Maybe you've even tried it. But why is JRuby a good idea? How can it help you build better applications? In this talk, we'll cover everything that makes JRuby awesome, from the JVM with its top-notch memory management, solid multithreading, and lightning-fast optimizing compiler, to JRuby itself, giving you easy access to Java libraries, robust Ruby compatibility, and trivial app deployment and distribution options. JRuby is an amazing tool for any Rubyist...come find out why. Help us caption & translate this video! http://amara.org/v/FGgW/
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In the video titled **"Why JRuby?"**, Charles Nutter discusses the advantages of using JRuby, a Ruby implementation that runs on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). He begins by introducing himself and his extensive history with both Java and Ruby, highlighting his full-time work on JRuby since 2006. Nutter explains that JRuby allows developers to leverage the capabilities of the JVM, which offers robust memory management, superior multithreading, and an optimizing compiler. ### Key Points Discussed: - **What is JRuby?** - JRuby is Ruby running on the JVM, primarily written in Java, but transitioning to Ruby for easier maintenance. - It supports features of Ruby versions 1.8 and 1.9, positioned as a drop-in replacement for MRI Ruby. - Limitations include incomplete support for certain low-level UNIX features and deprecated C extensions for performance reasons. - **Performance Improvements**: - JRuby has seen enhancements in concurrency, garbage collection, and execution speed through its integration with the JVM. - The JVM's garbage collectors minimize resource wastage, leading to better performance compared to MRI Ruby. - **Cross-Platform Support**: - JRuby works well across various platforms, including Windows and Dalvik for Android, making it versatile for deployment. - It provides significant library access, with compatibility for Java libraries that do not require native extensions. - **Application Deployment**: - Any Java-based server can run Ruby applications, making deployment seamless in Java environments. - Tools like Trinidad and TorqueBox enhance the experience for Ruby developers by packaging server functionalities. - **Example Applications**: - Demonstrations are provided, including graphics handling in games and applications using libraries like JavaFX for GUI components. - The discussion includes the example of a Minecraft plugin developed with JRuby, showcasing its capabilities in plugin development. ### Conclusion and Takeaways: Nutter discusses the vibrant JRuby community and encourages developers to transition from MRI Ruby, with the acknowledgment of potential challenges, primarily concerning C extension compatibility. He highlights JRuby's advantages, including optimized performance and extensive Java library access. Overall, the talk underscores JRuby as a potent, efficient alternative for Rubyists aimed at harnessing the JVM's strengths while maintaining Ruby's features.
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