Using php code in payment module language files?

[gilby]

I am writing a new payment module which involves getting the next (possible) order number.
If I use some php code to customise the output in the language file it all works fine.
The other way would be to hack a lot of other files to achieve the same result.

1. How bad is the downside to using php code in the language files?

2. Using custom functions to calculate and display info in other places, such as customer order info. Is it ok to put these into the class file and call them externally or should I use "another" file for these functions elsewhere?

I am trying to keep it compact to 2 new files, and 2 edited files if possible.
vs editing and adding code in a lot more places!

[DrByte]

The Authnet AIM module (and the Linkpoint module) has code in it to check the last order number, then add 1 and use that when submitting a new payment transaction. You can duplicate that code and adjust as needed, ideally in the same class method as you copy it from.

Remember: Zen Cart doesn't officially assign a final order number until *after* payment is confirmed ... so this process is only a best-guess approximation, primarily intended for use when reconciling between the payment gateway and the store.