How to Create a Class That Handles Primitive Arrays in Java?

Question

What is the process for creating a class in Java to handle primitive arrays?

public class PrimitiveArrayHandler {
    private int[] array;

    public PrimitiveArrayHandler(int size) {
        array = new int[size];
    }
    
    public void setElement(int index, int value) {
        if (index >= 0 && index < array.length) {
            array[index] = value;
        } else {
            throw new IndexOutOfBoundsException("Index: " + index);
        }
    }
    
    public int getElement(int index) {
        if (index >= 0 && index < array.length) {
            return array[index];
        } else {
            throw new IndexOutOfBoundsException("Index: " + index);
        }
    }
}

Answer

In Java, creating a class to handle primitive arrays encapsulates the array functionality and provides methods for interaction, promoting encapsulation and better code organization.

public class PrimitiveArrayHandler {
    private int[] array;

    public PrimitiveArrayHandler(int size) {
        this.array = new int[size];
    }

    public void setElement(int index, int value) {
        if (index < 0 || index >= array.length) {
            throw new IndexOutOfBoundsException("Invalid index: " + index);
        }
        array[index] = value;
    }

    public int getElement(int index) {
        if (index < 0 || index >= array.length) {
            throw new IndexOutOfBoundsException("Invalid index: " + index);
        }
        return array[index];
    }

    public int[] getArray() {
        return array;
    }
}

Causes

Need for encapsulation of array operations
Desire to create reusable components
Requirement for additional functionality beyond simple array manipulation

Solutions

Define a class that contains an array as a class member.
Implement methods for setting and getting the elements of the array.
Add array manipulation methods for advanced functionalities, such as sorting or searching.

Common Mistakes

Mistake: Not checking index bounds before accessing the array

Solution: Always validate the index before accessing or modifying the array elements.

Mistake: Confusing an array's size with its indexing

Solution: Remember that arrays are 0-indexed; ensure your logic reflects correct indexing.

Helpers

Java class primitive array
Create class with primitive array
Java array encapsulation
Handling primitive arrays in Java
Java class methods for arrays