JARStarter (formerly Hitonic JAR-Starter)

JARStarter is a lightweight software application designed specifically for helping you launch Java files in multiple J2SE (JDK/JRE) and J2ME simulating environments.

User interface

You are welcomed by a clean feature lineup that embeds only a few configuration settings. The main window is divided into two main panels where you can manage J2SE and J2ME starters.
You cannot consult a help manual but the dedicated parameters are intuitive so you are going to invest minimal effort into the tweaking process. You may also check for updates.

Automatic detection of J2SE and J2ME environments

JARStarter comes with support for an automatic detection mode that allows you to scan your computer for J2SE and J2ME environments. In addition, you can manually add J2SE and J2ME starters by providing information about the name of the file, executable item, as well as arguments.
Several features are implemented for helping you manage J2SE and J2ME starters, namely build a list with all files, copy, edit or delete them. In addition, you can make file associations and make use of the program’s features directly from your Windows Explorer, as it supports context menu integration.
JARStarter proves to be extremely useful in case you have multiple environments installed on your computer, such as Java 2SE JDK 1.4.0, Java 2SE JDK 1.5.0, Sun WTK 1.0.4, and Sun SDK 3.0. It gives you the freedom to launch JAR and JAD files in the desired environment.

Bottom line

All things considered, JARStarter comes with a handy package of features for helping Java developers run JAR and JAD files in various environments. We have tested it on Windows 8.1 Pro and experienced freezes upon trying to make file associations.