Lesson 2: Modify the Java Activator class

The Activator class is created automatically with the creation of the Eclipse plug-in project. This lesson guides you through the steps to modify the Activator class to display the appropriate graphics as decorators.

1. In the Package Explorer view, navigate to the Activator class by expanding com.ibm.carma.plugin.decorators > src > com.ibm.carma.plugin.decorators, and double-click on the Activator.java file to open it in the editor.
2. Scroll down, and below the getDefault method, add the following method to the Java Activator class:

   public static ImageDescriptor getImageDescriptor(String path) 
   {
   	return imageDescriptorFromPlugin(PLUGIN_ID, path);
   }
   

   This method provides a way for the Activator class to find the graphics you plan to use as decorators.
3. Ensure that the following classes and packages are included in the import commands. An easy way of doing this is by right-clicking within the editor, and selecting Source > Organize Imports and verifying all the listed import statements were included. You can also manually enter the import commands at the top of the class with any other import commands.

   import org.eclipse.jface.resource.ImageDescriptor;
   import org.eclipse.ui.plugin.AbstractUIPlugin;
   import org.osgi.framework.BundleContext;

4. Save the Activator.java file.