First Steps

First, you must know the typical steps in using SNTOOL (further details are given later in this document):

  1. Create your model using the network designer
    Define classes (internal and external) and pages (places, interfaces, super-places, and links) that describe your model. Many elements, such as classes, pages, etc., may have implementation code (written in Java) and even make use of external libraries (jar files, for example).
  2. Compile your model
    Your model will be validated and compiled to a collection of Java class files. These files represent your model, and are ready to use. Each time you change your model you must recompile your model.
  3. Simulate your model
    You can either use the internal debugger or just plug the client library and your compiled model to your external application.
    1. Simulate your model using the SNTOOL Debugger.
      Using the previously compiled model, you can open a simulation session, in which the model will be instantiated. Using the viewer technology, you can visualize and even change the state of network elements as it runs.
    2. Simulate your model using client libraries.
      After debugging your model you may want to embed it into another system. In this case, you can use the client library. This usage provides better performance and integrates seamlessly with third-party projects.