PHP Script Question

[fuggles]

Is there a way for me to have a PHP script run constantly on the server, rather than only run when a user loads the page?

Sorry if this is a stupid question. I just haven't ever had the need until now.

[CFROG]

It can be done using AJAX if you don't want the page to reload.

[fuggles]

It can be done using AJAX if you don't want the page to reload.

I mean something that is never in a URL and never echo's anything, that would constantly update something in my MySQL database. Is there no way in PHP, or do I have to learn another language?

[CFROG]

There is no way in PHP, but like I said AJAX would do exactly what you are describing and with a framework like Prototype.js it is surprisingly easy and can be accomplished with an additional 3 or 4 lines of code.

[fuggles]

Thanks for your help. I'll check it out.

[fuggles]

I tool a look at it. But I have a question about security, since it runs in my client's browser, can't they see my code? I was looking for something that would run on my server, not my client's browser.

[CFROG]

Here is a quick example using Prototype:

function someFunction()
{
	new Ajax.PeriodicalUpdater('div_id', 'your_function_page.php', {
  method: 'post', frequency: 2, decay: 1
});
}

Using body onload or window.onload in your js will start the script running when the page loads. The script will execute every 2 seconds (if the decay is set to 1). The script is the only thing viewable to your users if they decide to look.

[CFROG]

if you want something to just run on the server side you can look into cron jobs as well. You can set it up to run at certain times/dates. I don't use it much myself but it's worth looking into either way.