"new to Java" question...

Is there an easier way to access method variables in another method other 
than passing them on the call?  here's an example:

public static void main(String args[]) {
  DB2400 nal820 = new DB2400("nal820");
  getData(nal820);
  nal820.disconnect();
}

public static void getData(DB2400 nal820) {
  //process data
}

could I do something in the getData method to access my "nal820" variable 
without passing it?  I'm sure it's something really easy and basic, but 
like the subject says, it's a "new to Java" type of question...Thanks...

Shane Cessna
iSeries Programmer
iSeries WAS Administrator
North American Lighting, Inc.
(618) 662-4483 x2776
shane_cessna@xxxxxxx