How do I include JavaHelp with my Eclipse project?

Question

I am writing some applications that require to have a Help Contents system tied to it. I came across JavaHelp which seems perfect for what I need.

The issue I am having is that when you download JavaHelp, it comes with its own bin folder which looks like you are suppose to use separately. However, I am pretty sure if I just copy some of the JAR files I should be able to just place them in the hierarchy in my Eclipse and use it in the project.

What JAR(s) would I need to copy so I can use JavaHelp in my application?

Update

I got JavaHelp working rather easily. I had issues with the built in Eclipse Help though. But I appreciate both of your answers!

If anyone is interested in knowing how to add JavaHelp to your project (doesn't have to be Eclipse specific), I will be more than happy to provide the answer here.

Answer 1

While JavaHelp is a good api, Eclipse has its own api for help, and (IMO) it's a much better option for SWT based applications. See this developerworks article on developing help using the Eclipse help system.

If you're actually creating a swing application, and want to package java help with it, you'll need to create the help documents (help topics, helpset file, map file, TOC, index, full-text search db) and then package those files into a jar for distribution with your application. See the JavaHelp Users Guide for details.

For running the help viewer from the Eclipse IDE (and from your application at runtime), all you need is the jar file jhall.jar from the JavaHelp distribution.

Answer 2

The JavaHelp README details the redistributable jar files that are supplied in the download. Select the jar that suits your needs and add it to your Eclipse project.