Super Powers
PHP Class Builder in JCB
The "Super Powers" system in Joomla Component Builder (JCB) is a powerful abstraction tool that lets you visually create and manage namespaced PHP class structures — including interfaces, traits, abstract classes, and final implementations — all from within the GUI.
This means JCB isn't just generating Joomla components; it's also functioning as a class-oriented code factory.
What You Can Build
Interfaces
Traits
Abstract classes
Final classes
Constants, properties, and method stubs
Namespaces
How It Works
- Create a PHP Class from the Super Powers panel
- Define the namespace, class name, and type (interface/trait/abstract/final)
- Add constants, methods, and properties via the GUI
- Assign visibility (public/protected/private), default values, static flags
- Link your class to a JCB component, or keep it globally reusable
- Compile — and JCB inserts the class into your project automatically
Classes are generated under `/src` using your configured namespace structure and are included during compilation and packaging.
Advanced Features
Implements / Extends logic (with auto-injection into headers)
Method reuse between traits and classes
Automatic namespace path generation based on PSR-4
Use your Super Powers classes across multiple components
PHPDoc integration for auto-documentation
Use Cases
Build a utility interface (e.g. LoggerInterface) and use it across components
Create a shared trait that manages DB logic for similar views
Use abstract classes to define default controller behavior
Inject helper classes into models, views, or templates dynamically
Integration with Joomla Powers
JCB links Super Powers with Joomla Powers, meaning your custom classes can intelligently reference Joomla classes using the JPK system. This ensures compatibility across Joomla versions while maintaining clean architecture.
Rebuilding & Sync
- Rebuilding your component re-compiles your Super Powers classes
- Changes in the GUI will reflect on next compile
- Use `insert/replace` tags to manually tweak parts if needed
Deployment
All Super Powers classes are packaged with the component unless explicitly excluded. They follow PSR-compliant structure and can be registered via autoloaders or JCB’s internal loader.