Pre-compile PHP files into binary (for hiding source)?

[torbjoen]

Hi!

I have a PHP application that I am planning to sell for a small fee. Also, I would like to make trial-versions of the application available on my site.

Since regular php-applications contains all sourcecode, I can't control that the customer actually stops using the application when the trial period is over.

Also, I would like to keep the sourcecode private, so that users of the application can't copy, modify or use it in other systems.

What are my options, if any? Can I pre-compile my php-files, and still be able to run it with a regular PHP engine?

-Thanks!

Torbjørn :-)

[mystrymaster]

You can use the zend encoder

[ednark]

also Pear has a bytecode compiler located here:
http://pear.php.net/package-info.php?pacid=95

it claims to still be in beta however