Automated generation and execution of in-container Cactus test cases also is included to simulate a realistic runtime environment. This enables early exposure of defects that might go unnoticed until quality assurance, deployment, or production time. Cactus is a testing framework that extends JUnit.

Additonally, Jtest Tracer replaces Test Sniffer as a named capability; it has been updated to boost its effectiveness. JTest Tracer allows users to create realistic functional JUnit test cases to reflect an application's functional behavior. Test cases can be run to identify when new code changes break or modify applications.

A new code review module in Jtest 8.0, meanwhile, helps automate the review process for code reviews. Geared toward teams of developers, the code review feature enables users to define and manage distribution lists and groupings for code review modifications and routings, Parasoft said.

Test case parameterization in Jtest 8 allows Jtest-generated or user-defined JUnit test cases to be extended and customized with varied, controlled test input values. This enables creation of test scenarios that reflect a range of realistic usage, the company said.

Also featured in version 8.0 are rules for Java 5 and the Hibernate Java framework. Parasoft Jtest 8.0 is available for Windows 2000 and XP, Linux and Solaris. Single-license prices start at US$3,495.