To obtain a module from the CVS server for the first time, is known as a checkout. Checking a module out from the repository gives you a local copy of the directory hierarchy that makes up the module. To perform a checkout, do the following:
1. Choose the Create -> Checkout module menu.
2. In the checkout dialog that pops up, type in the module name that you want to check out in the Module name and path on the server field. Note that the module name is case sensitive.
3. Select the place where you would like WinCvs to checkout the module you have just typed in. A directory named after the module will be created in the directory you supply, so you will normally want to provide the directory in which you keep all your projects.
4. If needed, check the Override checkbox and fill in a directory name you would like to have on your local copy instead of the module name.
5. If you want a special revision checked out, select the Checkout options tab and set it according to your wishes. Also, if you just want to export the module (eg. to copy a website to a production server), check the Do not create the CVS directories checkbox.
6. Select the Globals tab.
7. Set the Checkout read-only according to what the project leader tells you (see below).
8. Press the OK button.
If you state that Checkout read-only should be in use, you will have to tell WinCvs which files you intend to edit before editing them. This may be cumbersome, but it enables other developers to track who is currently editing given files. See the section Who's Editing that File? for more information.