Unix in a Nutshell, 4th Edition

Name

ci

Synopsis

ci [options]files

Check in revisions. ci stores the contents of the specified working files into their corresponding RCS files. Normally, ci deletes the working file after storing it. If no RCS file exists, the working file is an initial revision. In this case, the RCS file is created, and you are prompted to enter a description of the file. If an RCS file exists, ci increments the revision number and prompts you to enter a message that logs the changes made. If a working file is checked in without changes, the file reverts to the previous revision.

The two mutually exclusive options -u and -l, along with -r, are the most common. Use -u to keep a read-only copy of the working file (for example, so the file can be compiled or searched). Use -l to update a revision and then immediately check it out again with a lock. This allows you to save intermediate changes but continue editing (for example, during a long editing session). Use -r to check in a file with a different release number. ci accepts the standard options -q, -V, -V n, -T, -x, and -z.

Options

-d[ date ]

Check the file in with a timestamp of date or, if no date is specified, with the time of last modification.

-f[ R ]

Force a check-in even if there are no differences.

-i[ R ]

Initial check-in, report an error if the RCS file already exists.

-I[ R ]

Interactive mode; prompt user even when standard input is not a terminal (e.g., when ci is part of a command pipeline).

-j[ R ]

Just check in and do not initialize. ...