What I really wanted was a program that will colorize syntax based on the type of language I am using, built in FTP, and a more powerful search and replace function. While all I really need is a program that shows me line numbers and a basic search and replace feature, I want to make programing a lot easier for my self. I downloaded PHP Designer 2005 when it was new. I ran it that day of course but quickly realized that I preferred CuteHTML. At the time it didn't make much sense to me why some of the features were included. For example, why would you use the "function" insert feature. All it does is input the following:
CODE
function
{
}
{
}
Seems to me that it would make sense for it to request the function's name and any parameter you wish to include. But there are a few handy items built into the program like the ability to organize your project files. However, it doesn't make sense that you have to manually add folders if your file structure is already in place. It seems like you should be able to import an entire file structure and that you should be able to save the entire project and all of the files would be saved in their correct folders etc...
Another issue I have with this program is the FTP feature. I don't understand why it is so hard to upload. There isn't a drag and drop feature and again, you can't manipulate entire folders! You have to have the folders already on the server or create them before you can upload to them. My regular FTP client you can upload an entire website by just dragging the top level folder over to the server. Seems like a file sync feature is what this program really needs but they didn't ask me.
I am getting used to using the program and that there are a lot of useful features like a built in PHP help system, a debugger, and an output display. However, you have to install PHP, PHP Help File, MySQL, and probably Apache for this to be used. Any other web services you wish to use in your project will also need to be installed for debugging and output display.
It is really nice having your parenthesis, brackets, and curly brackets highlighted together. That way you can always see which if any bracket belongs to the one you selected. Makes finding a missing end bracket simple. The ability to quickly switch between open files is very good and shares that attribute with my other HTML editor. There are a number of features that I am sure I just haven't found yet but I am becoming more familiar every day.
Perhaps when I learn how to fully utilize this software, I'll be as happy with it as I am with CuteHTML. I did go to the website today to check on updates and found that they have two versions now. The professional version promises to be all you'll ever need and more while the personal version is the same with a number of features removed.
So my question is, has anyone used either PHP Designer 2007 Professional or PHP Designer 2007 Personal and are they any good. Is it worth buying the professional version or is the free personal version good enough. The reason I ask is because I am finding that I spend much more time writing PHP code than I used to and the number of requests I am getting for more scripts is increasing all of the time. I think right now, I have 12 or more pending or in development projects. I need software that will help me develop new script more quickly.
Of course, the other question I have is, should I just stick with PHP Designer 2005?
Thanks for your input,
vujsa
The personal version isn't updated to much to use it and it has some terms and conditions too 