Reference for Processing version 1.5. If you have a previous version, use the reference included with your software. If you see any errors or have suggestions, please let us know. If you prefer a more technical reference, visit the Processing Javadoc.

Name

### static

Examples

    void setup() {
      MiniClass mc1 = new MiniClass();
      MiniClass mc2 = new MiniClass();
      println( mc1.y );   // Prints "10" to the console
      MiniClass.y += 10;  // The "y" variable is shared by mc1 and mc2
      println( mc1.y );   // Prints "20" to the console
      println( mc2.y );   // Prints "20" to the console
    }

    static class MiniClass {
      static int y = 10; // Class variable
    }

    void setup() {
      println(MiniClass.add(3, 4));  // Prints "7" to the console
    }

    static class MiniClass {
      static int add(int x, int y) {
        return(x + y);
      }
    }

Description

Keyword used to define a variable as a "class variable" and a method as a "class method." When a variable is declared with the static keyword, all instances of that class share the same variable. When a class is defined with the static keyword, it's methods can be used without making an instance of the class. The above examples demonstrate each of these uses.
This keyword is an essential part of Java programming and is not usually used with Processing. Consult a Java language reference or tutorial for more information, such as this one.

Usage | Web & Application

Updated on August 30, 2010 04:29:39pm EDT