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PHP

What is PHP?
A popular adition to ConnectWeb sites is PHP. PHP is a server-side, cross-platform, HTML embedded scripting language, and is available on both our Unix and NT sites. PHP is similar in concept to ASP scripting on the Windows platform, but does not suffer the same platform dependancy. Currently customers are able to use PHP Ver3 or Ver4 on Unix, and PHP Ver4 on NT.

Some excellent resources that provide examples of using PHP are:
  PHP Homepage
    http://www.php.net/
  The PHP Homepage - Documentation and FAQ section.
    http://www.php.net/docs.php
  DevShed - PHP tutorials and articles.
    http://www.devshed.com/Server_Side/PHP/

How can I check that PHP is working OR How can I see what configuration options are available?
The easiest way to find out if the PHP install is functioning is to make use of the phpinfo() function.
To do this:
Create a file called "test.php" and place it in a web viewable area of your site. The contents of the file should be:

<html>
<body>
<?php
   phpinfo();
?>
</body>
</html>

When run from a web browser you should be presented with a table that shows the PHP version, and definitions available.

What can I troubleshoot if my PHP pages are not working?
(applicable to ConnectWeb Unix only)

Does the the /cgi-bin/php.cgi (or php3.cgi or php4.cgi) have read and execute permissions set ?
Try chmod 755 php.cgi

Does the /htdocs/.htaccess file have the extension used by your scripts defined ?
Eg: if you want to use .phtml you will need to add:

     Action  application/x-httpd-php /cgi-bin/php.cgi
     AddType application/x-httpd-php .phtml
     DirectoryIndex index.phtml index.html

Module xyz is not working / available. What can I do?
(applicable to ConnectWeb Unix only)
In certain circumstances, some non-default functionality can be enabled for a customers PHP installation. Requests are evaluated on a case-by case basis, and should be requested in the same manner as an installation request.
We suggest that you use the above-mentioned phpinfo() command to check what is available to your installation, as some parameters can be enabled by use of a php.ini file, which is located in the /var/php directory. Please consult the PHP documentation for configuration types.

How to I get PHP enabled on my ConnectWeb site?
PHP installation is done free of charge, and can be arranged by emailing support@connect.com.au or alternativly by filling in our on-line Support Request Form AAPT periodically update the build of PHP that is available for the UNIX platform, but we do not attempt to update customers versions, as this could introduce incompatabilities with certain customers scripting. Instead, we ask that if you believe that you require the version updated, that you follow the same procedure as for initial installation.

To assist in your request, we ask that you copy and paste this template into your email, and provide all requested information.

 I would like PHP:         (Please select) Installed / Upgraded
 I would like PHP version: (Please select) Ver3 / Ver4
 Web Site type:            (Please select) Unix / NT
 Website URL(s):
 Website Login Name:

 Your Name:
 Your email address:
 Your contact phone number:
 Best time to contact you:

Please allow at least 3 working days for the installation to be performed.