An item is an object that represents the physical implementation of an application component. For example, an item in a software application could be source code, an executable file, a specification, or a user guide. An item in a web site could be an HTML file, a script, or an image file.
An item revision is a specific version of an item. Whenever you modify an item, a new revision of the item is created and stored in Dimensions CM. The revision stores the state that the item is in after being modified. The file associated with the item revision is stored in operating system libraries controlled by Dimensions CM. Every revision is tracked and stored separately so you can make sure revisions are not accidentally lost. Every revision has a full set of attributes that are stored in the Dimensions CM repository, such as modification date, reason for change, and author's name, so you can trace the history of all changes to an item.
A directory item is an entire folder, including subfolders and files, that is compressed and stored in Dimensions CM as a single item.
A virtual item is one that does not have its associated data file stored in Dimensions CM. When you create a new item you have the option to create a virtual item with no file content. Virtual items are primarily used for controlling hardware configuration items, rather than software. You can use a virtual item to track all information about the hardware item using revisions, attributes, and relationships.
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