How to Compile Java with a Custom Output Folder in VS Code Using Code Runner

When working with Java in VS Code, it’s important to keep your project well-organized, especially when compiling code. By default, the compiled class files will be placed in the same folder as the source code. However, you might prefer to store these compiled files in a separate folder (like a `bin` folder) for better project structure.

In this tutorial, we will guide you through configuring VS Code and Code Runner to compile Java files and store the generated `.class` files in a custom folder.

Step 1: Install Java and VS Code Extensions

Before we begin, ensure you have the necessary tools installed:

• Install the latest version of Java JDK.
• Install VS Code (Visual Studio Code).
• Install the Code Runner extension from the VS Code marketplace to run Java code easily.

Step 2: Configure Code Runner in VS Code

By default, Code Runner compiles and runs Java files in the same directory. We need to configure it to compile Java files into a custom directory (e.g., a `bin` folder).

2.1 Modify the Code Runner Settings

To specify a custom output folder for your compiled `.class` files, follow these steps:

1. Open VS Code and go to the settings. Click on the gear icon in the lower-left corner and choose Settings.
2. Search for "Code Runner" in the search bar.
3. Scroll down to the Code Runner: Executor Map section. You'll see a configuration for Java.
4. Edit the Java configuration to include the `-d` flag, which tells the compiler where to store the `.class` files. For example:

{
    "java": "cd $dir && javac -d $dir\\bin $fileName && java -cp $dir\\bin $fileNameWithoutExt"
  }

This command compiles the Java file and places the compiled `.class` files in a subfolder called `bin` in your project directory. The `-d` flag specifies the destination folder for the class files, and `-cp` tells Java to look in the `bin` folder to run the class file.

2.2 Save the Settings

Once you’ve edited the settings, save them. Code Runner will now compile Java files and place the `.class` files in the `bin` folder when you run your code.

Step 3: Test the Configuration

To test the configuration, create a simple Java file in your project. For example, create a file called Test.java with the following code:

public class Test {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        System.out.println("Hello, World!");
    }
}

Once you've saved the file, click the **Run** button from the Code Runner interface or press Ctrl+Alt+N to compile and run the Java program.

After running the program, check your project folder. You should see a new `bin` folder containing the `Test.class` file. The Java output will appear in the VS Code terminal, and you should see the message:

Hello, World!

Step 4: Optional – Clean Up Your Project

After running your Java files, it's a good idea to periodically clean up old `.class` files from the `bin` folder. This will keep your project folder clean and make it easier to manage your files.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can now easily compile Java code with a custom output folder using Code Runner in VS Code. This configuration helps you maintain a clean and organized project structure, especially when working with larger Java projects.

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