The Internet data system has been developed using JAVA development tools and provides access to a broad range of data and information maintained by the board. 

Java II is required for on-line data access and Internet production filing through the Montana web site.  Microsoft has been supporting Java in Internet Explorer but announced that in early 2004 the Java virtual machine would no longer be included in Microsoft applications.  This change is apparently due to continuing legal issues between Microsoft and Sun Microsystems.  Some newer computers are being shipped without a Java engine, and users of those computers are unable to access the Java-based utilities on our web site.

A Java engine that can be downloaded and installed on the user’s computer is available directly from Sun Microsystems through the following web site:

http://www.java.com

 The download is currently available from the main page of that site from a link labeled “Free Download”.  Help screens are also available to explain the installation process, and the site includes a test area to determine whether Java has been successfully installed.