Weird problem with distributing .jar

[Cynot]

I've created a small java application in Netbeans as a "proof of concept" to see if I could do something before proposing it to a client, but I'm running into a weird error.

I can compile a good .jar file that runs perfectly, and I can copy the "dist" folder anywhere and it works. However, if I package it with an installer (Astrum Install Wizard) and run the unpackaged .jar, it fails to run (the command line gives me a couple "NullPointerException" errors).

However (this is what confuses me), if I take the same "dist" folder as created by my installer, and copy it to my desktop, the .jar runs fine. :confused:

I'm not sure if this is the right forum (moderators feel free to move this thread if so), but what is causing this? The same file that is unzipped by the Install Wizard works fine if I do a "copy + paste" somewhere else (its not the location, I've tried installing it in a couple different places) it just doesn't like to work if I use the wizard.

[Norm]

Not familiar with Netbeans. I've only worked with the javac, jar and java commands.

What is the relationship between the dist folder and the jar file containing the app?

This sounds like an IDE problem not a java programming problem.

[Cynot]

When you use the "Clean and build" function in Netbeans, it compiles everything into .jar files and stores them in a folder labeled "dist". According to the documentation in order to distribute your java application you need only distribute the "dist" folder and its contents.

This all works correctly. I only run into an error when I use the install wizard to copy the files, which leads me to believe the issue is with the integration of the installer.

[Norm]

Better ask this on a Netbeans forum.

[Tolls]

Or a forum for the installer stuff...(see your other thread).