Svn Tortoisesvn Google Code

How to Download Code Using SVN/Tortoise from Google Code

If you’ve recently discovered a fascinating project on Google Code and want to dive into its source code, you’ve come to the right place! Many projects, like the WPF Twitter client called Witty, use Subversion (SVN) for version control. This blog post will walk you through the simple process of downloading code using SVN and TortoiseSVN, even if you’re a beginner. So, let’s get started!

What is SVN and TortoiseSVN?

Before we jump into the downloading process, let’s clarify what SVN and TortoiseSVN are:

  • SVN (Subversion): This is a version control system that allows developers to manage changes to source code over time. It helps track modifications, collaborate with others, and revert to previous versions if needed.

  • TortoiseSVN: This is a user-friendly interface that simplifies the use of SVN through a graphical interface, making it easier for those who aren’t comfortable with command-line tools.

Step-by-Step Guide to Download Code

Now that you know what SVN and TortoiseSVN are, follow these steps to download code from Google Code.

Step 1: Install TortoiseSVN

If you haven’t installed TortoiseSVN yet:

  • Visit the TortoiseSVN official website and download the installer for your operating system.
  • Follow the installation instructions to set it up on your machine.

Step 2: Create a New Folder

  1. Navigate to a location on your computer where you want to store the downloaded project.
  2. Create a new empty folder. You can name it whatever you like, perhaps something descriptive for the project you are downloading (e.g., WittyTwitterProject).

Step 3: Use SVN Checkout

  1. Right-click on the newly created folder. A context menu will appear.
  2. Look for the option labeled SVN Checkout and select it. This action will open a dialog box specifically for SVN operations.

Step 4: Enter the Repository URL

  1. In the dialog box, you will see a field labeled with something like URL of repository.

  2. Paste the following URL into this field:
    http://wittytwitter.googlecode.com/svn/trunk/

  3. After pasting the URL, click the OK button to initiate the checkout process.

Step 5: Wait for the Process to Complete

The TortoiseSVN client will now communicate with the Google Code repository and download the files to your folder. The time it takes will depend on your internet speed and the size of the project.

Step 6: Explore Your Code

Once the download is complete, you can navigate to the folder where you checked out the project. You will find all the files related to the Witty project ready for you to explore!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during this process, consider the following tips:

  • Check your URL: Ensure that you copied the correct repository URL.
  • Firewall/Antivirus: Your firewall or antivirus software may block TortoiseSVN from accessing the internet. Temporarily disabling them may help.
  • Permission errors: Make sure you have the correct permissions set for the folder you are trying to use.

Conclusion

Downloading code from Google Code using SVN and TortoiseSVN is a straightforward process once you know the steps. With this guide, you should now be comfortable cloning repositories and exploring interesting projects like Witty. Happy coding!