Datasheet

Chapter 1: Introduction to PHP and MySQL

over the connection. The MySQL server interprets the SQL message and fol-

lows the instructions. The MySQL server sends a return message, stating its

status and what it did (or reporting an error if it was unable to understand or

follow the instructions).

Software designed specifically to interact with MySQL database is also dis-

cussed in this book. You can use this software, called phpMyAdmin, on your

own computer to communicate with your MySQL databases. PhpMyAdmin is

also available on almost all Web hosts.

For the lowdown on how to write and send SQL messages to MySQL, check

out Part II.

PHP, a Data Mover

PHP, a scripting language designed specifically for use on the Web, is your

tool for creating dynamic Web pages. Rich in features that make Web design

and programming easier, PHP is in use on more than 20 million domains

(according to the Netcraft survey at www.php.net/usage.php). Its popular-

ity continues to grow, so it must be fulfilling its function pretty well.

PHP stands for PHP: HyperText Preprocessor. In its early development by a

guy named Rasmus Lerdorf, it was called Personal Home Page tools. When it

developed into a full-blown language, the name was changed to be more in

line with its expanded functionality.

The syntax of the PHP language is similar to the syntax of C, so if you have

experience with C, you’ll be comfortable with PHP. PHP is actually simpler

than C because it doesn’t use some of the more difficult concepts of C. PHP

also doesn’t include the low-level programming capabilities of C because PHP

is designed to program Web sites and doesn’t require the capabilities required

by C.

PHP is particularly strong in its ability to interact with databases. It supports

pretty much every database you’ve ever heard of (and some you haven’t).

PHP handles connecting to the database and communicating with it. You

don’t need to know the technical details for connecting to a database or for

exchanging messages with it. You tell PHP the name of the database and

where it is, and PHP handles the details. It connects to the database, passes

your instructions to the database, and returns the database response to you.

Technical support is available for PHP. You can join one of several e-mail discus-

sion lists offered on the PHP Web site (www.php.net), including a list for data-

bases and PHP. In addition, a Web interface to the discussion lists is available at

http://news.php.net, where you can browse or search the messages.

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