Abstract

The PHP coding language features easy-to-use functions for many forms of database software. These functions, usually named after the database software, are the means by which PHP scripts access and perform operations on a database. phpBB 2.0, as a PHP script, uses these functions to provide dynamic content for a forum.

However, the phpBB 2.0 forum software supports several popular database software packages. In order to do this while keeping the size of the software itself reasonable, a special coding method called a "database abstraction layer," or DBAL, is used. As with most things, the DBAL has good and bad points. It is one of the backbones of phpBB.

In this manual, we will explore the phpBB Database Abstraction Layer, it's good and bad points, and benefits for hack authors. To assist potential phpBB coders, the DBAL's functions and variables will also be listed, explained, and equated to their PHP counterparts.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
1. What is good about the Database Abstraction Layer?
2. What is bad about the Database Abstraction Layer?
3. Should hack authors write code using the Database Abstraction Layer? Why?
4. How to use the Database Abstraction Layer
2. Variable Reference
3. Function Reference
4. About this Manual