How to fix the fatal error in HTML 2PDF library with PHP 8.1?

HTML2PDF is a popular PHP library used for converting HTML content to PDF documents. However, users may encounter compatibility issues when upgrading to PHP version 8.1, specifically regarding array and string offset access with curly braces. In this article, we’ll address the fatal error related to this issue and provide a solution to resolve it effectively.

Issue

After upgrading to PHP version 8.1, users of the HTML2PDF library may encounter the following fatal error message:

Fatal error: Array and string offset access with curly braces is no longer supported

This error occurs due to changes in PHP 8.1, which no longer supports array and string offset access using curly braces, leading to compatibility issues with older code that relies on this syntax.

Problem Identification

The fatal error occurs when the HTML2PDF library attempts to access array elements or string offsets using curly braces, which is no longer supported in PHP 8.1 and results in a runtime error.

Solution

To resolve the fatal error related to array and string offset access with curly braces in PHP version 8.1 while using the HTML2PDF library, follow these steps:

1. Update the HTML2PDF Library

   Ensure that you are using the latest version of the HTML2PDF library that includes compatibility fixes for PHP 8.1. Check the official documentation or repository for any updates or patches specifically addressing PHP 8.1 compatibility.

2. Replace Curly Brace Syntax

   Identify and replace instances of array representation using curly braces { } with square brackets [] in the codebase of the HTML2PDF library or any custom code that interacts with it.

For example, replace code like this: 

   with:

3. Test Compatibility

After making the necessary code changes, test the HTML2PDF library with PHP version 8.1 to ensure that the fatal error related to array and string offset access with curly braces no longer occurs.

Conclusion

By updating the HTML2PDF library to a version that supports PHP 8.1 and replacing array representation using curly braces with square brackets, you can successfully resolve the fatal error encountered when accessing array elements or string offsets. This ensures compatibility with the latest PHP version while maintaining the functionality of the HTML2PDF library. For further assistance or troubleshooting related to PHP version upgrades and library compatibility, consult expert PHP developers.