Installing Php, MySQL,Apache

Hi There, Apache, MySQL is installed and running on Windows XP Home Edition from my office in my house. The installation of Apache, and MySQL was smooth, but having some problems with PHP. The version is PHP5. I have Dreamweaver MX, and I use CoffeeCup, and Notepad. Also have a DzSoft php Editor. It's very friendly and clean. When I attempt to write a small script in Notepad and save as PHP file, it does not work. I can't open the file with IE. So, the infamous PHP test file of PHP info(); is a problem for me. I know that Apache is installed correctly. If I open Notepad and type some code and save as index.htm insert in htdocs folder and type in Http://localhost/index.htm the file is displayed in IE. The way I got started on this track was this. A book called SAMS Teach Yourself PHP, MySQL and Apache. The book came with a CD. Install all three from the CD. I'm not sure that I have PHP-CGI or what. (It says php 5.02 Installer) I have a Hosting company and a Web Site that I created myself www.zwangproductions.com <http://www.zwangproductions.com/> the reason for the installation on my box is to practice on PHP from the house before going live with the hosting company. Do you have any suggestions? Yours in Success, Jimmy Clark