java sdk 1.4 - problem compiling

[craigtaylor74]

I've just downloaded j2sdk 1.4 from SUN and textpad 4.0 too so that I can start learning a bit of java and see if my programmes work. Unfortunately with anything I try to compile it says "The system cannot find the file specified" and its talking about "javac.exe". Have I done something wrong? What am I missing or what can I change? Somebody suggested I need to do something with the "path" but I don't really know what that means - a little help would be much appreciated.
Thanks,
Craig.

[doctorgonzo]

PATH is a system variable that tells the OS where to look when you type in a program at the command prompt. To see what the path variable contains, type set path at the command prompt and press enter. If it isn't already there, you will have to add something like "C:\j2sdk1.4.0_02\bin" to tell your PC where to find the javac.exe file. Changing the path variable depends on the OS you are using; which one do you have?

[craigtaylor74]

I've got XP. If I go tinkering about with the Path stuff, can i do some damage?

[doctorgonzo]

It's not the registry, so you can't really do much damage. For XP, right-click on "My Computer" and select Properties. Click on the Advanced tab, and then click on "Environment Variables." On the bottom half, find the Path variable and click edit. Then just add ";C:\j2sdk1.4.0_02\bin" to the end (semicolons separate the values). Substitute the exact path if that isn't it for you. You should then be set.

[craigtaylor74]

thanks. that sorted it. ta for your advice.