Install PsySH for Python IPython Shell

PsySH is a powerful REPL for PHP and Python. It offers debugging and introspection features. This guide shows how to install PsySH for Python.

What Is PsySH?

PsySH is an interactive shell. It works with PHP and Python. It provides better debugging than standard shells.

PsySH offers features like:

• Code introspection
• Debugging tools
• Syntax highlighting

Prerequisites

Before installing PsySH, ensure you have:

• Python 3.6+ installed
• Pip package manager
• Basic terminal knowledge

Check your Python version with python --version.

python --version

Python 3.9.7

Install PsySH via Pip

Install PsySH using pip. Run this command in your terminal:

pip install psysh

This installs the latest PsySH version. For specific versions, use pip install psysh==x.x.x.

Verify Installation

Check if PsySH installed correctly. Run:

psysh --version

PsySH v0.11.2

Using PsySH With Python

Start PsySH with Python support:

psysh --python

You'll see the PsySH prompt. Try Python commands:

>>> 2 + 2
4
>>> import math
>>> math.sqrt(16)
4.0

PsySH vs IPython

PsySH offers some advantages over IPython:

• Better PHP integration
• Simpler debugging
• Lightweight

For pure Python work, IPython might be better. But PsySH shines in mixed environments.

Common Issues

If you get installation errors:

• Update pip: pip install --upgrade pip
• Check Python path
• Verify internet connection

For other Python installations, see our guide on installing Python on Raspberry Pi.

Advanced Usage

PsySH supports configuration files. Create .psysh.php in your home directory.

Example configuration:

 'less',
    'historySize' => 1000,
];

This sets up paging and history size.

Conclusion

PsySH is a great alternative to IPython. It's especially useful for PHP-Python projects.

Installation is simple with pip. The shell offers powerful features for debugging.

For more Python tools, check our guide on installing Bottle web framework.

PsySH fills a niche between pure Python and PHP development environments. Give it a try for your next project.