What is better? an external page or a database

[moishy]

I want to store (and later retrieve) an array.

How is the simplest and best way to do so?

[ronverdonk]

Depends on how long you want to store it: for the duration of a session of over sessions?
For the duration of a session you can store the array in the $_SESSION array. Over sessions you can store in in the database.

It would be easiest to first use PHP serialize() function on the array to make it into a string that can be stored anywhere. After retrieving iy back again in a string variable, you can then use PHP unserialize() function to reconstruct the array again.

Ronald :cool:

[moishy]

No. I don't want is only for that session.

I want it to last at least a week, and on MY server, not HIS system

So, I guess I'll use the serialize(), but how should I store it?
(that was my original question)

Thanx,

[moishy]

And to make things clearer:

I want to store my serialized array somewhere where I can retrieve it with PHP when needed.

What should the code for that be?

[ronverdonk]

A serialized array is just a straight string. So you can store it, depending on the expected length, in a char or (better) varchar data type table column.

Ronald :cool:

[moishy]

So what should the code for this be?

[steven]

So what should the code for this be?

You will need a database server up and running with relevant access permissions.

Also, php.net has plenty of information on interacting with a dbms, such as MySQL. Just pop in 'mysql' in the search field on http://php.net/ and in the drop down, select "online documentation" and you will have all the information you need.

TheScripts is not a code database, you don't just come and expect code. Make a start, show us what you have done and if you're struggling or need help, people here will be more than happy to assist.

[ronverdonk]

If you do not know anything about storing data in a MySQL database, then you'd better run off to get some basic education for MySQL (and maybe PHP also).

Ronald :cool:

[moishy]

It just so happens to be that I never got into databases yet.

Quote: show us what you've done

Actually, I've already written a full-fledged website using PHP:

http://www.thelivingsidrah.com

[theRamones]

cool man..,
the simple way is what you prefer and understand to use.
it depends on you, whether txt or database.

I cann't show you how to do this, because this is large problem on simple question, but i'm sure you're really had experience on php to accomplish this.

So my suggestion is,
If what you need is just to store un structured data, using txt is a good simple once.
But if you need to store structured data, so you can manipulate this data (sorting, updated per one data, etc), using database is more simple.

all i had mention is not look from the simple or not the code to write, but it's look from the simple logic to implement....

[Atli]

I'd be very carefull when using external text files. In my oppinion it would be simpler to just learn MySQL than it would be structuring a decent system on your own.