How do I add PEAR packages to a XAMPP installation

[arnoldc]

I know XAMPP is already pre-installed with a list of PEAR packages.

If I need to bring in some additional packages, what is the best way to do it? Should I use the PEAR commands on a shell to install it or fetch the ZIP package and extract directly to /xampp/php/pear directory.

It seems maintaining the PEAR packages may become a challenge for a XAMPP installation since I can't rely on using the PEAR commands on a shell. e.g. the current "pear list" command shows "no packages installed from channel pear.php.net". Just wonder what you people do. Thanks!