23-03-2012, 10:59 AM
Client-Server Chat Program
[attachment=18796]
Introduction
For this project, you will be required to write a chat program based on the client-server model. Understanding
the principles used in writing such a program will provide you with insight into practical computer
networks and the problems faced when implementing them.
2 General Information
Please note of the following points when implementing your solution:
You may code in any programming language, but we recommend Java. Take note that the demonstrators
might not know your chosen language and would be unable to help you if you run into
trouble.
You may work in groups of no more than two persons. You do not have to work in a group.
Every project must be accompanied by a report. The report must contain the following:
1. Name(s) and student number(s).
2. A description of the project.
3. Features included in your solution.
4. Features not included in your solution.
5. Extra features included.
6. Algorithms and data structures used to implement your solution.
All project sources and reports will be checked for plagiarism, including being checked against
solutions from previous years. If you are found guilty there will be serious consequences, including
receiving a mark of zero for the project.
3 Project Specifications
The model used for this project is the single server - multiple client model. The following general specifications
must be implemented:
1. Multiple clients must be able to connect to a single server.
2. No GUI is needed for the server.
The Server
A single server program should handle all requests from the clients. As such, you will have to implement
a multi-threaded service solution for your server. The following must be implemented in your server
application:
1. Server operations (such as connect requests and disconnect requests) should be printed out by the
server.
2. The server must handle connections / disconnections without disruption of other services.
3. Clients must have unique nicknames, duplicates must be resolved before allowing a client to be
connected.
4. All clients must be informed of changes in the list of connected users.
3.2 The Client
The following must be implemented in your client application:
1. A list of online users must be displayed (via GUI or command).
2. Connection / disconnection actions of users must be displayed.
3. Messages from the originating user and other users must be displayed (in other words the messages
you send must also be displayed).
4. Must still be able to receive messages / actions while typing a message.
5. Clients must be able to disconnect without disrupting the server.
[attachment=18796]
Introduction
For this project, you will be required to write a chat program based on the client-server model. Understanding
the principles used in writing such a program will provide you with insight into practical computer
networks and the problems faced when implementing them.
2 General Information
Please note of the following points when implementing your solution:
You may code in any programming language, but we recommend Java. Take note that the demonstrators
might not know your chosen language and would be unable to help you if you run into
trouble.
You may work in groups of no more than two persons. You do not have to work in a group.
Every project must be accompanied by a report. The report must contain the following:
1. Name(s) and student number(s).
2. A description of the project.
3. Features included in your solution.
4. Features not included in your solution.
5. Extra features included.
6. Algorithms and data structures used to implement your solution.
All project sources and reports will be checked for plagiarism, including being checked against
solutions from previous years. If you are found guilty there will be serious consequences, including
receiving a mark of zero for the project.
3 Project Specifications
The model used for this project is the single server - multiple client model. The following general specifications
must be implemented:
1. Multiple clients must be able to connect to a single server.
2. No GUI is needed for the server.
The Server
A single server program should handle all requests from the clients. As such, you will have to implement
a multi-threaded service solution for your server. The following must be implemented in your server
application:
1. Server operations (such as connect requests and disconnect requests) should be printed out by the
server.
2. The server must handle connections / disconnections without disruption of other services.
3. Clients must have unique nicknames, duplicates must be resolved before allowing a client to be
connected.
4. All clients must be informed of changes in the list of connected users.
3.2 The Client
The following must be implemented in your client application:
1. A list of online users must be displayed (via GUI or command).
2. Connection / disconnection actions of users must be displayed.
3. Messages from the originating user and other users must be displayed (in other words the messages
you send must also be displayed).
4. Must still be able to receive messages / actions while typing a message.
5. Clients must be able to disconnect without disrupting the server.