KB: Resolving SVN Repository Creation Error in Altium Designer

Solution Details

Creating an SVN repository in Altium Designer may occasionally result in an error indicating "Value cannot be null." The parameter name is "repositoryPath". This article seeks to clarify the root cause of this mistake and provide a clear solution to users who are experiencing this issue, ensuring a smooth setup for version control within Altium Designer.

When attempting to set up version control in Altium Designer using an SVN repository, users may get the following error: "Value cannot be null. The parameter name is "repositoryPath". This occurs while attempting to build a new SVN repository directly from Altium Designer. Understanding Altium Designer's restrictions in repository creation and the proper way to link to SVN repositories is critical for resolving this issue.

Understanding the Error

Altium Designer's Limitations

Currently, only Design Repositories with the file repository access method can be created directly from within Altium Designer. A Design Repository using a different access method (e.g. networked access over http or https) can be set up outside of Altium Designer using an external SVN interface tool, provided that tool bundles with it the Apache web server required to facilitate the http access method. Alternatively get the repository set up by your network administrator, or use one of the many providers of hosted Subversion repositories. You can then connect to that existing repository from within Altium Designer.

Solution: Correct Approach to SVN Repositories in Altium Designer

• Server-Side Setup: Ensure that the SVN repository is properly configured on the server. This includes installing the SVN server-side software, defining access rights, and setting up port forwarding if internet connectivity is required.
• Use 'Connect To' for Existing Repositories: When integrating Altium Designer with an SVN repository, always select 'Connect To' rather than 'Create New' for existing repositories. This approach avoids the problem by not attempting to establish a repository straight from Altium Designer.
• Repository Path: Check that the repository path entered into Altium Designer during the 'Connect To' step is correct and properly structured. This path is required for a successful connection to the SVN repository.
• Grayed Out Options: While it would improve usability, Altium Designer presently does not gray out the 'Create New' option for SVN repositories when such an action is not supported. Users must be aware of this and select the appropriate solution based on their requirements.

Avoid Common Mistakes

• Do not use the 'Create New' option within Altium Designer to attempt creating new SVN repositories.
• Verify the server-side configurations before attempting to connect through Altium Designer.

By understanding the limitations of Altium Designer and following the correct procedures for connecting to an existing SVN repository, users can effectively integrate version control into their PCB design workflows, enhancing project management and collaboration.