How do you get a .java or .jmdl file to actually load in to microstation?
I mean, I can type in the command to load it, but where am I meant to store the file for it to be loaded?
Also, how or where do I look to try to get my program to interface with the create new layer function?
by create new layer function, I mean the fuction that runs when you hit the button to create a new layer of drawing.
Also, how would I go about learning MDL? I've tried in the past to find online tutorials, but to no avail.
When you "hit the button" in MicroStation's user interfave (or any product), that usually does not equate to "calling a function" in the API -- at least not on a one-to-one relationship. Typically, a "command" is called that invokes a series of functions and statements to fulfill what the user "clicks on" in the interface (or enters from the command line). You can get a good sense of this using MicroStation's VBA macro recorder. Although that might not result in exactly what you are looking for, you might at least get an idea as to what is happening behind the scenes.
AFA programming with MicroStation is concerned... there is the MicroStation SDK, which has some examples included. Have you looked at that? If not, that might be worthwhile to do.
sramage: How would I go about learning MDL?
That depends where in the world you are. If you are close to a Bentley office, you could contact the Bentley Institute to find out about training.
You need to be fluent in C/C++, as well as understanding MicroStation.
Regards, Jon Summers LA Solutions