Several weeks ago, I tired phoneGap(Cordova) start-up, and I need to install it first as the Doc said:
Install SDK + Cordova
Download and install Eclipse ClassicDownload and install Android SDK
Download and install ADT Plugin
Download the latest copy of Cordova and extract its contents. We will be working with the Android directory.
So I want to know why these components be needed, here is the anwser.
Eclipse --- provide editor and the whole develop environment
Android SDK --- provides the API libraries and developer tools necessary to build, test, and debug apps for Android.
ADT Plugin --- a bridge plugin for Eclipse, it connects Eclipse and Android SDK
Cordova --- no doubt, it provide Cordova device APIs