Configuration Management Software

[lisa yates_1]

I am looking for software that will allow me to check in and check out programs/shells on my unix box. I was told that there is a software package called something like "RCPS", but I have been unable to find it on my machine. Can anyone tell me anything about this?

Thanks in advance.

Lisa

[A. Clay Stephenson · Accepted solution]

Hi Lisa,

You actually have two options to choose from:
1) rcs (Revision Control System)
and
2) SCCS (Source Code Control System)

Both work in a similar manner, the idea is that you checxk out a file and revise it and then check it back in with your revisions. The system keeps up with your 'deltas' so that it is possible to recreate a past version of a routine. Of the two systems, rcs is probably easier to use. You can man rcs and sccs for details.

Clay

[Bill Thorsteinson]

You have three options for free configuration management software.

rcs - stores the latest revision and the difference to get
back to prior versions. It is file based, so you need to
manage files individually. It does a decent job of
retaining permissions. Often installed on UNIX and
available for Windows.

sccs - store the initial version and the changes made to
it. File based like rcs. Again file based, but doesn't retain
permissions. Usually installed on UNIX and I haven't
found a Windows version.

cvs - is based on rcs but works on projects (directories
and directory trees). Files are stored in a repository
which can be network based. Has a larger learning curve
than rcs to setup. Available for UNIX, Windows, and
Macs. Files are usually read-only until you check them
out for editting.

I would recommend you start with rcs. Create an RCS
directory in each directory you work in to keep your
checked in files. You can move these files into the
cvs repository if you upgrade.

If you are setting up configuration management for a
development project, bite the bullet and start with cvs.