Roadsend PHP stands out from Zend PHP and all other PHP “compilers”, encoders, and caches because of its ability to produce native machine code from PHP source code.
However, for development purposes it is often convenient to run PHP code immediately, without compiling. This method of running PHP code is also supported by Roadsend PHP.
Luckily, you don't have to choose between using your code with the interpreter or the compiler. Even if you develop with the interpreter, you are still able to compile it at a later date.
Interpreting vs. Compiling
It is possible to run compiled and interpreted code at the same time. This happens when a compiled program includes one or more uncompiled source files. In this case the compiled program will search the include path and interpret the included source file at runtime if it is found.
TIP: You can leave PHP configuration files that your project uses uncompiled. They will be interpreted at runtime, and allow the end user to customize your application.
Interpreting Include Files at Runtime
This may also occur if a compiled library is in use. In this case, if an interpreted source file calls code that has been compiled into the included library, then the faster, compiled code will execute during the interpretation of the original script.
Running Compiled Code From An Interpreted Web page
For more information, see Handling Include Files.