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Build your PHP application project

Compiling Your Application

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This step involves ExeOutput for PHP creating the application's executable file recognized by Windows (.EXE file extension). This file is what you will distribute to your end users.

Shortcuts for Launching the Compilation

You have several ways to initiate the compilation of your package:

  • Click the Build Button in the toolbar.

  • Use the Build Commands from the Application Menu

  • Keyboard Shortcuts
    Press F5 to compile and F10 for a full build.

  • Command Line Parameters
    Utilize command line options for automated builds.

Warning

Ensure that all resources (such as splash screens) and source files are present when you compile the application.

Tip

To launch the publication, press F9. If the project has been modified, you will be prompted to perform a new compilation before launching.

About Archive Caching

When building an application, ExeOutput for PHP first compresses source files into a single archive, which is then merged into the application's .exe file. Compressing files is the most time-consuming step. To optimize this, ExeOutput for PHP caches the newly created archive in a temporary folder, similar to how web browsers cache temporary internet files.

This significantly reduces build time, allowing compilation to take only seconds when an archive is cached.

To force a full rebuild by recompressing all source files, use the Build Full Application command from the Application menu: .

The cached archive is automatically deleted when you close ExeOutput for PHP or switch to another project. It is temporarily stored in the local user's temporary folder.

ExeOutput for PHP can automatically determine when to recompress source files, such as when file dates or times differ. For more information, see Environment Options.

Compilation Options

  • Activate TEST Mode:
    Designed for testing purposes only. ExeOutput for PHP can disable file compression, optimizations, and digital signing to speed up the compilation process. Applications built in test mode should never be distributed.

  • Jump to the Compilation Log After Compiling:
    This option automatically displays the compilation log once the build operation has finished.

Reset Settings

An application stores its settings (user window preferences, etc.) as local information on the user's computer. If you are testing your application on your own computer, you may want to remove or reset these settings:

  1. Click .
  2. Choose Build => Reset Settings.
  3. Confirm by clicking Yes.