Payment module class extends base, making a payment module.

[torvista]

In the class name, some payment modules just have the class name, others have the class name and "extends base".
When is that needed/for what?

Apart from that, is there any documentation for the construction of/standard functions required in payment modules?
If not, what would be the best module to use as a reference?

[mc12345678]

The primary benefit of extending the base class that I have seen is the direct use of the notifier system ($this->notify('I_AM_A_NOTIFIER');) instead of having to include the global $zco_notifier variable( global $zco_notifier; $zco_notifier->notify('I_AM_A_NOTIFIER');). Generally speaking, extending a class offers the ability to access methods of that class based on their visibility (protected or public) where if the method is not defined in this class, then it is accessed in the parent class(es).

As far as methods either expected or available, the payment class identifies the methods that will be checked within the payment module. In some perhaps most cases, the method can be absent and it will default to a value of false, but as I recall there are some methods that are expected and do not have such "ditch out" responses.

As far as a method to be used as an example, primarily it depends on how the payment method operates. Those that require the order number to exist prior to obtaining payment generally need some sort of unique place holder so that the payment information can be sent, a satisfactory response received and the order committed to the database. Others such as paypal express use transactional information to relate to the payment and do not appear to need the order number as part of the payment request and therefore can process and complete payment before the cart commits the order.

[torvista]

Ok, thanks. That's cleared that up!

[mc12345678]

Ok, thanks. That's cleared that up!

Really?! Not being facetious? My response cleared up an issue and was understood? :) (for other readers, we have a bit of a history)

[torvista]

Not being facetious in the slightest!!

[mc12345678]

Not being facetious in the slightest!!

Whew. 1:unknown. :) I always try to answer your questions as you still ask for understanding and try to seek solutions. :) sometimes I am able to help, sometimes not, but I continue to try.