How to Parse XML into an Array of Strings Using SAX Parsers?

How to Use SAX Parsers to Parse XML

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to effectively parse XML data using the SAX parser, addressing a common issue where the parser returns a single string rather than an array of strings.

Problem Statement:

You need to return an array of all the strings parsed from an XML document instead of a single concatenated string.

SAX Parser Implementations:

There are two SAX parser implementations commonly used:

android.sax Implementation:

• Advantages:

  • Defines the XML structure, which simplifies element handling.

• Disadvantages:

  • Code becomes repetitive due to the need to define listeners for each element.

org.xml.sax Implementation:

• Advantages:

  • No need to define the XML structure, which allows for more flexibility.

• Disadvantages:

  • Requires careful tracking of the current parsing context.

Example Using android.sax:

public class Example extends DefaultHandler {

    private Channel channel;
    private Items items;
    private Item item;

    // ... (rest of the code omitted for brevity)

    public Channel parse(InputStream is) {
        // ... (parsing code omitted for brevity)
        return channel;
    }
}

Example Using org.xml.sax:

public class ExampleHandler extends DefaultHandler {

    private Channel channel;
    private Items items;
    private Item item;
    private boolean inItem = false;

    // ... (rest of the code omitted for brevity)

    public void endElement(String uri, String localName, String qName) 
            throws SAXException {
        // ... (element handling code omitted for brevity)
    }
}

Conclusion:

Both SAX parser implementations have their strengths and weaknesses. The android.sax implementation is easier to use when the XML structure is well-defined, while the org.xml.sax implementation provides more flexibility but requires careful context management. Choose the implementation that best suits your specific parsing requirements.

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