PHP ini_parse_quantity() Function: Usage and Examples

Use ini_parse_quantity() when you need to parses PHP shorthand sizes such as 128M into byte quantities in a PHP application. The examples below show the actual operation and its limitations.

What Is ini_parse_quantity() in PHP?

Parses PHP shorthand sizes such as 128M into byte quantities. The exact signature supported by your installation depends on its PHP version and enabled extensions.

Its syntax is:

ini_parse_quantity(string $shorthand): int

Parameters and return value: The parameter types, optional arguments, references, and return type are shown in the signature above. Optional parameters are marked with an ellipsis in this reference signature.

Example 1: Basic Usage

<?php

echo ini_parse_quantity("2K");

Output:

2048

Example 2: Different Input or Behavior

<?php

echo ini_parse_quantity("1M");

Output:

1048576

Practical Example: Applying the Function

<?php

$memoryLimit = ini_get("memory_limit"); $bytes = ini_parse_quantity($memoryLimit); echo is_int($bytes) ? "Parsed" : "Unavailable";

Output:

Parsed

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

Negative quantities and overflow can be meaningful; inspect configuration semantics before treating output as a byte allowance.

Comparison With Related Functions

Common Beginner Mistakes

Key Takeaways

• Parses PHP shorthand sizes such as 128M into byte quantities.
• Negative quantities and overflow can be meaningful; inspect configuration semantics before treating output as a byte allowance.
• ini_get() obtains raw setting text; ini_parse_quantity() interprets PHP shorthand sizes.

Use ini_parse_quantity() for the specific operation demonstrated above. Check its prerequisites and handle failure conditions before using it with production data.