Normally I wouldn't ask a question this simple

I know that this is a simple question. However, due to the nature of the question, I can't find any information by searching for it.

What does the below mean in PHP?

->

Code (markup):

Is it similar to this?

.=

Code (markup):

If so, what are the differences? Or, can someone send me a link to where I can learn more about it?

Thanks

 

-> is associated with PHP Classes
.= means append this to the variable

Now you have the basic meaning, I'm sure you can look it up

Jay

 

Thanks. I now know that -> is associated with PHP classes. However, PHP classes is quite a large subject, and there is a lot of information about PHP classes.

I have searched many PHP websites for '->'. Unfortunately, none of them pull up anything. Probably because most search engines don't consider -> a valid search.

I know this is something so simple that most people don't even mention what it does because it is common knowledge. Does anyone have a more in depth explaination.

 

It's called arrow operator, and it's used when working with Objects (not only classes). Its purpose is basically to access methods/variables within the scope of a class, or to access values of an object.

Further references:
www.php.net/object
www.php.net/mysql_fetch_object
www.php.net/get_browser
www.php.net/language.oop5.basic

 

Here's a brief explanation:
"You use the "->" operator to refer to a variable or a function of an instance." Taken from :
http://www.phpbuilder.com/columns/rod19990601.php3?page=2

This one looks a little better as it explains each part as it goes along:
http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/5100-22-1045062.html

 

Perfect! Thanks!

 

Examples:

class MyClass {
     public $var;

     function isTrue() {
     return $this->var;
     }
}
//Instantiate a new object
$object=new MyClass(param);
//Set the MyClass member 'var' to true
$object->var=true;
//Call method isTrue, which returns the value of member 'var'
if($object->isTrue()) {
echo  "Class member var is true.";
}
//Outputs "Class member var is true."

PHP: