Checking Files Out

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When you check a file out, your installed source-code control system changes the status of the file from read-only to writeable. The system also records that you have the file checked out, and dims the Check Out command (Project menu, Source Control submenu). You then have the necessary permissions to revise the file. Your source-code control system may include a mechanism for exclusive use. You then can specify that you have the file checked out, and that no one else may check out that file.

Some source-code control systems allow multiple authors to check out the same file. In this case, the source-code control system merges the changes from the authors when each one checks in the file.

To check files out

1. In the FileView pane of the Project Workspace window, select the files that you want to check out.
   
   
2. From the Project menu, choose Source Control, and from the drop-down menu, choose Check Out.

   The Check Out File(s) dialog box appears, if it has been selected as an option.

3. Type a comment in the Comment text box, if you want.

   Note   Not all source-code control systems support comments when checking files out. If yours does not, this text box does not appear.

4. Click OK.

To be prompted when you check out a file for editing, set the source control option from the Tools menu.

To prompt for check out from editor windows

1. From the Tools menu, choose Options.
   
   
2. Click the Source Control tab.
   
   
3. Select the Check Out Source File(s) When Edited check box.
   
   
4. Click OK.