Perforce Software Unveils Time-lapse View for SCM System

Developers can rapidly visualize the evolution of code in a single merged view

ALAMEDA, Calif., Nov. 30, 2004 - Perforce Software today announced the addition of Time-lapse View to Perforce, the Fast Software Configuration Management system.

Time-lapse View (screenshot) provides a graphical way to view the complete change history of individual text files stored in the Perforce repository. In a single window, developers can now instantly visualize changes to code over any user-defined time period using familiar graphical elements.

"Traditionally, developers are required to manually open files two at a time and hunt for specific code," said Christopher Seiwald, president and chief technology officer of Perforce Software. "The ability to view and contrast all versions of a file in a single merged view allows developers to save time and increases the accuracy of development activities such as debugging and code walkthrough."

Using Time-lapse View, Perforce users can rapidly detect which piece of code was added, deleted, or changed at any point in the lifecycle of a file. Each change is identified by time and date, file revision number, and the developer responsible for the change. A color gradient instantly highlights the most recent code changes.

The sliding range control mechanism enables developers to narrow down their desired range of file revisions to find problems, examine merges, and review coding style and history. No extra system configuration is required; Time-lapse View uses the wealth of information already available in Perforce.

"The context for viewing code evolution has now changed from comparing two file versions at a time, to seeing all revisions at once," Seiwald said. "Even skilled command line veterans will be able to find code changes faster."

Availability & Pricing

Time-lapse View is part of Perforce version 2004.2, and is available now. Interested developers are invited to download and evaluate Perforce free from the Perforce Web site without obligation for a 45-day trial. This offer includes free technical support during the evaluation period. A free, fully functional, two-user version is also available from the Web site. End-user licenses, including one year of support and maintenance, start at $750 per seat; volume discounts are available. For additional price and license information, send e-mail inquiries to info@perforce.com or visit www.perforce.com.

About the Perforce SCM System

Perforce, the Fast Software Configuration Management System, tracks and manages software development for enterprises large and small. Perforce is easy to install, learn and administer; seamlessly handles distributed development, and supports developers across more than 50 operating systems. Perforce ensures development integrity by grouping multi-file updates into atomic changes, enables concurrent development, and intelligently manages multiple software releases using its Inter-File Branching system.

About Perforce Software

Perforce Software Inc. develops, markets, and supports Perforce, the Fast Software Configuration Management System. Headquartered in Alameda, Calif., Perforce Software sells worldwide and has international operations in Europe, Japan and Israel. In addition to application software companies, Perforce customers represent a broad range of industries including the game development, electronics, pharmaceutical and financial services markets. For additional information, contact Perforce Software via email at info@perforce.com or phone at +1.510.864.7400, or on the web at www.perforce.com.

Media Contacts