PHPEdit 5.0.0.12872

Overview

PHPEdit 4.2.1 is the latest addition of one of the most renowned PHP editing software available today. This program is actually a combination of PHP and packages that work in conjunction to create an ideal development platform for PHP programmers.

Installation

The installation is as simple and straightforward as most other free trial software, and can be completed within literally seven clicks. After choosing your desired language, and selecting the type of installation you'd like to perform, the download/unpacking process is a bit lengthy at about 5 to 20 minutes on average, depending on your Internet connection and computer speed. The final step of the installation will present a few checkboxes, asking you if you want to install a debugging Firefox extension, desktops shortcuts, and whether you'd like to add an exception for PHPEdit to the Windows firewall (this is recommended if you'll be using the software to develop applications that connect to the Internet). Once the installation has finished you can select the evaluation option to begin using the trial version.

Interface

The interface is neatly categorized into four main tabs - File, Project, Search-And-Replace, and Debug. The File tab lets you import, export/publish, print, reload, close, compare, and open new files. The Projects tab lets you manage files, connections, and servers associated with your projects. The Search and Replace tab makes it easy to locate specific code snippets, files, or other aspects of your projects. The Debug tab lets you begin new debugging sessions, evaluate specific lines of code, and utilize the powerful profiling feature to discover inefficient code.

Pros

• Advanced PHP editor supports syntax highlighting, code folding, code completion, and syntax checking

• Smart Editing environment supports integrated PHP unit testing, remote file synchronization over FTP/FTPS/SFTP connections, and CVS/Subversion

• Script debugger/profiler lets you run PHP scripts by each individual line to help you diagnose and repair unclean code more productively.

• Includes a preconfigured integrated server for debugging, and is compatible with external servers. Also provides a diagnostic tool to recommend proper configuration settings and test your debugging server.

• Profiler feature makes it easy to find bottlenecks that are slowing down your scripts and affecting application performance

• Links to tutorial screencasts are conveniently placed within the software interface to provide an easily accessible visual learning experience for users.

• Fully customizable templates, menus, and shortcuts

• Lets you edit, download, and publish files using simple one-click shortcuts

Cons

• The free evaluation version doesn't last forever, and the full version is a bit costly (although well worth the price).

• While this software can be a useful learning tool, it can also carry a significant learning curve for a novice PHP programmer, and is therefore recommended for more advanced users that can truly appreciate its extensive functionality.

Alternatives

While PHPEdit is perhaps the most popular and comprehensive PHP development/editing platform available, there are a few notable alternatives, including Eclipse, NetBeans, QT, and Zend Studio.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a robust PHP development/testing platform that gives you all the tools and resources needed to create powerful applications and scripts, PHPEdit 4.2.1 is certainly worth an evaluation run.