Problem:

I see that the file $COBDIR/docs/env.txt shows the versions of Java that are supported for my version of Server Express.  These are all "Sun" versions of Java.  I would like to use IBM Java version 2.1.4.  Can I still use this with Server Express?

Resolution:

Strictly speaking, the versions of Java listed in $COBDIR/docs/env.txt are the only ones supported.  But this does not mean it is impossible to use other versions of Java.  Java versions from other vendors such as IBM are often "rebadged" Sun versions (derived from the same code base and maintaining the same version numbering).  These are sometimes functionally compatible with the Sun versions.

What Micro Focus means by "supported" is that, for customers with active maintenance, Micro Focus Supportline will always be willing to talk on the phone and answer technical questions and provide assistance, but if a bug is discovered, so Micro Focus must provide a patch or a fix, Micro Focus will provide the fix only if the bug can be reproduced using a supported version of Java.  If a bug appears only when using one of the unsupported versions, Micro Focus won't be obligated to fix it.

Given the general compatibility between Java versions, there is a fair chance that an "unsupported" version will work; enough of a chance that it might be worth a try.  But if customers report trouble, Supportline's first advice will be to test using a supported Java version to see whether the trouble still occurs.