Question about Java Eclipse Export function

Question

I'm trying out the Eclipse Java 'Export Runnable JAR file". It creates a single JAR with all files in it, which is great. But one issue, in my project I have two directories and a few external libraries, like the following layout

• src
• resources
  
  • mypic.jpg
• JRE System Library
• Referenced Libraries
  
  • a bunch of external libraries

As usual 'src' contains all my codes. and resources contains some image files I use in the code. in my code, when I refer to mypic.jpg, I do:

String filename = "resources/mypic.jpg";

However, when I Export the project as runnable JAR file, it totally ignores the 'resources' directory, it put mypic.jpg into the top level directory, which makes "resources/mypic.jpg" in my code won't work at all. 'resources' directory is not created neither in the JAR file

I tried creating the "resources" directory using both 'New->Folder', 'New->Source Folder', none avail.

here is my "Source folders on build path" on Build Path configuration

MyProject/resources MyProject/src

My Eclipse build (Windows XP): Eclipse Java EE IDE for Web Developers. Build id: 20090621-0832

Answer 1

I would recommend taking the approach described here using maven:

http://stackoverflow.com/questions/574594/how-can-i-create-an-executable-jar-with-dependencies-using-maven/574650

Yes it will require "mavenizing" your project and learning how to use Maven but sooner or later you are going to want to build your project outside of Eclipse.