Why can't xamarin locate my java sdk

Question

Since I uninstalled 32 bit java and installed 64 bit jdk and jre, xamarin can no longer find the jdk. The xamarin build file generates the following errror...

Answer 1

If you are using Xamarin Studio, you will need to go to Xamarin Studio -> Preferences -> Android, then under the Projects section on the left, expand SDK Locations. Here you can update the location of the SDK and the NDK.

If you are using Visual Studio, you will need to go to Tools -> Options, then navigate down to the Xamarin section. Expand Xamarin and select Android. Here you can update the location of the SDK and NDK.

This process may require a restart of Xamarin Studio or Visual Studio for the changes to take effect.

Answer 2

Ok silly me. Xamarin doesn't just require java, it requires 32 bit java. 32 and 64 bit javas can live happily together. The JAVA_HOME can point to the 64 bit, so long as the 32 is present. Reinstalling 32 bit java fixed the problem. Hopefully this record of my silliness will be useful to others :-)

Answer 3

Set the JAVA_HOME environment variable to the root of your JDK. Mine for example is set to

JAVA_HOME="C:\Program Files\Java\jdk1.7.0_21"

How to set Environment Variable in Windows:

http://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000549.htm