PEAR is the PHP Extension and Application Repository, and is a framework and distribution system for reusable, high-quality PHP components, available in the form of "packages". This book is for PHP developers who want to maximize their productivity through the use of proven, high-quality, reusable PEAR components. This book is packed with code examples; every topic is explained in a clear, practical way. “The PHP Programming with PEAR” book explains many powerful PEAR packages for maximizing your PHP development productivity for accessing and displaying data, handling dates, working with XML and Web Services, and accessing Web APIs. This book will explain how to use a number of the most powerful PEAR packages available to boost your PHP development productivity. By focusing on these packages for key development activities, this book is an in-depth guide to getting the most from these powerful coding resources.