Computer Back-Up Help Quick

[audiobliss]

Hey all you computer whizzes....(one title I hope to one day claim for myself)...I have a question about backing up. I'm fixin' to reformat my desktop just to have a clean start, so I was going through My Documents to see what I wanted to save first. One of the files I want to save is 14BG. (It's badminton game/training videos, etc.) Another file I know will be quite large is music. I don't want to have to use 10 DVDs, so what should I do? I also want to do this now, and I don't want to have to buy any special software. Is there some option lying at my feet that I'm just not seeing? What should I do?

Thanks!

[neomagus00]

compress if you can, if you still need to split a file, there's a utility called GSplit that i find useful... it also has a packager available, so you can put a ton of files into one package, compress it, split it into 750-meg chunks, transfer it, and reverse the process...

[CrBoy]

What's the capacity of your Hard Drive, in Gb? maybe you can create a 2nd partition and move there all the files you don't want to delete...

Then you choose the old partition when installing the OS...

[bobman1235]

You could find a program like PartitionMagic that will partition your hard drive into two (or more) parts, put the stuff you want to keep on one part, the stuff you don't on another, and then when you reformat only reformat the partition that has stuff you don't want to keep on it.

But i gotta ask : what kind of file could you hvae that's 14GB? That's a little absurd. Any way you can find the disk it CAME from and just reinstall after you reformat? Keep the save files, but the rest you probably don't need or can find again.

[audiobliss]

Is that pretty simple? lol I guess there's no kind of 'data loss' in that method, is there? I'm looking to back-up on DVD-RW (larger...and I can later re-use); will that work just as well? Just curious, about how small can I expect to get a 14GB file?

Thanks!

[CrBoy]

the data compression ratio depends on the actual format of the file... if it's a video or music the compression would be insignificant... DVD back up is a good idea, but a secondary partition containing all the back up files is even better... if you scratch the DVD you'll be screwed... just my $0.02

[audiobliss]

Partitioning..that's a great idea! My hard drive is 200gb, so that ought to work just fine. Now, let me clarify what it is I'm doing. I'm not actually 'reformatting', I don't reckon. I'm actually going to use the 'Recovery Disc' that Windows XP let me create the first time I started it up. So, I'm not sure if the partition will work, seein' as how that's what I'm doing.

The file is just a collection of videos for badminton training and past badminton olympic games. Might have some pics in it, too; I'm not sure.

[neomagus00]

i prefer to do a complete and total wipe of the drive when i do this, which means removing all the partitions and starting from scratch, then i'm guaranteed not to have any leftovers... CrBoy is right, the compression ratio varies wildly with the type and content of a file, only real way to find out is to try, but videos don't compress so good, you'll have to split it...

[CrBoy]

Just use a tool like Partition Magic, create a 2nd partition (50Gb...?) move all your file there and use the Recovery Disc... Just like Neo said, a clean install works a LOT better...

[audiobliss]

Well, I've only had this computer for a year, so it's not really all that 'clogged up'. I just wanted to start fresh anyways. I don't think it really needs a completely clean start. Especially since I don't have any discs with which to do that. Or is the Recovery Disc that Windows XP let me create going to allow me to do that? Will it let me start from the beginning just like installing an OS and let me do the partitions and all that, too? Or will it just take over and do everything itself?

Thanks!

[audiobliss]

Yeah, I'd love to do a clean instal - but this Recovery Disc won't let me do that, will it?

[neomagus00]

no, i don't think so, so apparently your only option is the repartitioning...

[CrBoy]

the Recovery Disc will not allow you to perform a clean install, you'll need the WinXP CD...

[audiobliss]

Wait a minute; you've lost me. How can I repartition if the Recovery Disc isn't going to let me set-up partitions? From what I know about this XP stuff (not much!!), It's just going to wipe out everything and automatically redo the partitions, no? So doesn't that mean that if I set-up a new partition and move all my data to it, I'll just lose it all when I use the disc?

Thanks, folks! Almost there!

[CrBoy]

the Recovery Tool will NOT touch the new partition (that's why you have to create it before) so don't worry about files been deleted from the new partition, its not going to happen...

[CrBoy]

To create new partitions you'll need a third party software...

[audiobliss]

Oooh, that's awesome. So, now I can google for Partition Magic - was that it? And use that to create a new partition. Then move all my stuff over there. Then use the Recovery Disc. Then move the stuff from the new partition (which will still have the same name it did when I created it, no?). Then can I 'delete' the partition? No, wait. I don't want to do that; then I wouldn't be able to use that part of the hd, right? So, would I just be stuck with a 50GB partition? I guess I could just keep it for future backing up.

So, is there anything else I need to be aware of?

Thanks!!

[neomagus00]

once you've 'recovered' the old partition and moved your files back to it, you may be able to use the partition manager to merge the two back together

[CrBoy]

You can create the new partition, move the files there, use the recovery disc and keep the new partition and the files... you don't need to move them back to "My Documents"... just leave the file in the new partition so you don't have to go thru this over and over whenever you want to refresh your install... Partition Magic is not free so you'll have to download another tool... i'm working on it right now

[audiobliss]

Alright, awesome! So, there's nothing else real major I need to be aware of? Thanks guys!! I really appreciate it a bunch!!

[CrBoy]

Just make sure you back up every single file you need... after the Recovery Disc works there is no way back...

[audiobliss]

Alright, awesoem! I'm on it!

Thanks, folks. What a great forum! Much appreciated!!

(BTW, I posted this exact same question on another (computer) forum and so far I have 2 views and 0 replies.)

Thanks!

[audiobliss]

I just found Partition Magic 8.0 download free trial. That should for as long as I need it to, no?

http://www.soft32.com/download_151.html

Thanks!

[CrBoy]

I just find a Free one Partition Tool (http://visopsys.org/partlogic/download.html)

The downside is that you need to burn the image onto a CD and the use it... not so bad as far as I'm concern

:D

[audiobliss]

What does that mean? I'm lost - again. Burn the image onto a CD? And use that? What does that mean?

[audiobliss]

Hey, cool. My 'What does that mean' line up nicely! :D

[CrBoy]

I just found Partition Magic 8.0 download free trial. That should for as long as I need it to, no?

http://www.soft32.com/download_151.html

Thanks!

try it if you can, that's one of the best/easy to use tools for the job.

[CrBoy]

What does that mean? I'm lost - again. Burn the image onto a CD? And use that? What does that mean?


Just try the PQ Magic... it will be a lot easier...

[audiobliss]

Ok. Will do.

Thanks!

[CrBoy]

You're welcome...

this is the first time I do something good/useful for the people here... it feels nice! :D

[audiobliss]

Haha...awesome. I'm pretty sure I'm still waiting to do return a few favors on here..... :( ....maybe I'll get to one day.

[audiobliss]

Partition Magic is recommending that I create the new partition in NTFS format. I regret to say that I've forgotten the difference between the FAT systems and NTFS and which is which. Is NTFS what I want?

Thanks!

[audiobliss]

Guys? THE last question!



Please?

[neomagus00]

eep! NTFS = good, edits to come...

[audiobliss]

Thanky, thanky!!

[neomagus00]

otay, fat = file allocation table, also known as fat16, DOS ran on this... fat32 is the jump to a 32-bit file system, happy times (no more 8-character filenames)... ntfs = new technology file system (recall windows NT), which is still 32 bit but is more secure and more efficient...

[CrBoy]

Go with NTFS all the way...

[audiobliss]

Ok, now I've got a problem. I installed Partition Magic 8.0 and selected 'Create Back Up Partition'. I went through all that and chose to create a 70GB partition in NTFS format and name it 'Back Up'. When I finished, it said that I had three 3 operations pending, so I said 'Apply'. Then a window popped up that said something like 'You are using a free trial version of this software; to buy it go to www.yadayadayada.com'. I said ok, and now it says '0 operations pending'.

I figured that it actually did create the partition, since there'd be no use in having a free demo that didn't do anything. However, I can't find the new partition, lol. It's not under 'My Computer', and when I re-open Partition Magic, it doesn't list it, either.

What'd I do?

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

Ummm...if you're talking about using a System Recovery disk like that came with a pre-built PC (Dell, HP, etc) - you want to check on using that recovery disc BEFORE your partition and move all your data on that drive.

SOME system recovery programs also blow away all your partitions and restore the physical drive to factory settings - if that's the case, you'll lose all your data...

[audiobliss]

That's sorta what I figured, but I wasn't sure. The first time (as I recall; maybe it was like the fifth) I started my desktop, a window popped up that asked me if I wanted to create a system restore disc, as none came with the computer. This is that disc.

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

Uh, that free trial stuff usually only lets you see what the program can do, but won't actually DO anything - or else everyone would just download the trail when they need it and never buy it...

PS - make sure you take a look at my post above. If you're using a Dell or something like that, there's a good chance the system recovery tool is going to blow away ALL your p[artitions - you'll lose all your data on that partition...

[audiobliss]

This is a Compaq Presario SR-1050NX; maybe I can find something out at their website.

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

I'd bet it's gonna restore the original partition configuration...

Do you have the actual Windows XP CD?

[neomagus00]

nope, that's the problem

[CrBoy]

Ummm...if you're talking about using a System Recovery disk like that came with a pre-built PC (Dell, HP, etc) - you want to check on using that recovery disc BEFORE your partition and move all your data on that drive.

SOME system recovery programs also blow away all your partitions and restore the physical drive to factory settings - if that's the case, you'll lose all your data...

:eek: I have NEVER seen this happen in the past... the Recovery Disc only "recovers" the system files... it doesn't deal with partition tables.

[audiobliss]

Yeah - that's the problem. However, I went on Compaq's website, and I'm actually 'texting' a real technician about the problem as we speak. This is awesome!! lol


Wow, this is sooo cool, lol. I didn't know you could do that!!! Hmmm...I sure hope this is free......LOL

[audiobliss]

It's just like AIM. It's just like calling a guy in India, only you don't have to talk to him, so you can actually understand each other! And you don't even have to be reminded that all these jobs have been sourced out over the world. Hehe.

This is cool.

[neomagus00]

teehee... glad you found the help, though, this is me, signing off...

[CrBoy]

Good luck there! :D

[audiobliss]

Well, thank you very much for your help! It has been very much appreciated!!

Everybody's, that is!

[CrBoy]

Just so everyone knows I'll be glad to help you guys out with any computer problems you may have in the future... comps are my thing... I'm about to finish my career (university)

Just PM me... :D

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

:eek: I have NEVER seen this happen in the past... the Recovery Disc only "recovers" the system files... it doesn't deal with partition tables.I worked on the Dell and HP support desks for Stream Int. a few years back and all our system restore discs worked this way...worked in home and small business...

[audiobliss]

Hehe. I'll certainly remember that, as I didn't accomplish much with that little 'AIM' experience. Well, I guess I did; I saved all my information, as the tech told me that the disc would indeed wipe out all the partitions and start all over. He said my only two options were to back-up to CDs/DVDs or hook-up a second HD as a slave drive.

Hmm. Maybe my information isn't as valuable as I thought it was. Or, maybe I don't really need to reformat it. Hmm.

[audiobliss]

I must say, I was very pleased with the service. I was (or will be) e-mailed a complete transcript of our conversation, and the tech sent me links to two webpages on how to hook-up/replace a HD. Almost restores my lost faith in HP. However, not quite.

[CrBoy]

I worked on the Dell and HP support desks for Stream Int. a few years back and all our system restore discs worked this way...worked in home and small business...

That sucks big time... there is no reason for a Recovery Disc to perform such a task... all you want from the RD is to recover the system files, that are the ones actually screwed up... not your partition tables...

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

That sucks big time... there is no reason for a Recovery Disc to perform such a task... all you want from the RD is to recover the system files, that are the ones actually screwed up... not your partition tables...Agreed, that's why I typically just use the Windows XP repair tool when I have issues - just replace the files that I need.

The way to do it, though, is to get your computer running at maximum capacity, everything installed and working flawlessly, everything tweaked out and every setting configured to your liking - then image the damn thing. I did that about six months ago - and now I just restore the image every so often...that's the best mothd that I've found...

[CrBoy]

Agreed, that's why I typically just use the Windows XP repair tool when I have issues - just replace the files that I need.

The way to do it, though, is to get your computer running at maximum capacity, everything installed and working flawlessly, everything tweaked out and every setting configured to your liking - then image the damn thing. I did that about six months ago - and now I just restore the image every so often...that's the best mothd that I've found...

That's a really good idea, however I personally enjoy re-installing Win from scratch... it only takes me 25 minutes (with my comp) to have it up and running...

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

I don't mind installing Windows, it's taking the hour to configure everything that pisses me off. I'm very picky about how everything is set up, as I try to squeeze every bit of performance out of my machine that I can - things like setting a static page file on a separate partition and overclocking my video card are things that I need done, and just don't like going through all those steps every month...

[bobman1235]

I also enjoy reinstalling from scratch. I usually find that half the programs I use regularly have updated versions that I didn't realize, or i find better programs to perform the same task.

To each his own tho :)

[audiobliss]

There's no way for me to procure one of these Windows XP CDs, is there?

I just remembered that I think (am pretty sure) I have a (bootleg) copy of XP (and Me and 2000). Is there a reason I'd rather use the version of XP currently on my desktop instead of installing the one that I have on CD (somewhere)?

Thanks.

EDIT I mean, that way I'd be able to create a partition to back-up my data, right? What would be the cons of that method?

[CrBoy]

I don't mind installing Windows, it's taking the hour to configure everything that pisses me off. I'm very picky about how everything is set up, as I try to squeeze every bit of performance out of my machine that I can - things like setting a static page file on a separate partition and overclocking my video card are things that I need done, and just don't like going through all those steps every month...

Tweaking the registry and the services certainly takes a lot of time... but I re-install every 3-4 months so I don't mind to do it...

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

I'm just curious how long it takes you guys to reinstall everything from scratch?

With all the software and games I have (about 150 GB now, not including any data of course), it takes me about 5 hours to do a complete install of all my programs and configure my PC for optimal performance. Maybe I've just been into this business for too long - I just can't stand to sit down at a computer for 5 hours and install programs - oh and that doesn't even include the hour that it usually take me to install all the Windows updates and restart my computer 5 times during the process.

I must be getting old...

[audiobliss]

Somebody go back to the previous page and look at my posts (please). What're y'all's thought on that?

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

ADo you have an installation key for the XP that came on your machine?

[audiobliss]

I hate to say that I don't. I do, however, have the Certificate and accompanying number for Microsoft Office S&T Edition 2003 Trial, Microsoft Works 7.0 w/ Money 2004 Standard, and Microsoft MSN Encarta Standard that came preloaded on my computer. But I have no reason to believe that number would be any good. (Do I?)

[audiobliss]

Wait. I just remembered there's a holographic sticker with a number and what not on it on the side of my case. Would that be the number? *crosses fingers*

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

It could be, I'm not sure. Anyway, if you a serial number for Windows XP, you could get a CD from anyone and install XP on your machine using that CD, but with your serial number.

I'd be surprised if Compaq didn't provide you with that number in some way, you may want to give them a call...

[audiobliss]

Well, I'll see if I can't get at that sticker without unplugging everything and pulling it out of my desk. How long should the number be, if it is indeed what I'm looking for? (I assume I wouldn't want to post the actual number here.)

Thanks

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

Here's a sample number - no it won't work for you because it's known illegal serial, basically everyone in computers know about it.

Anyway, it'll give you an idea of what your number should look like, same layout and number of characters:

FCKGW-RHQQ2-YXRKT-8TG6W-2B7Q8

[audiobliss]

I haven't managed to pull out my case yet, so I don't actually have the number, but I can see that there's a sticker there, and I'm 98.99% sure it has the number on it. However, I can't find those CDs!! LOL For the life of me I can't remember where I put them. So, I guess I'm kinda back at square one, unless I accidentally run into them - in 3 years.

[CrBoy]

I'm just curious how long it takes you guys to reinstall everything from scratch

it takes me about 2 hours... WinXP + SP2 plus software (photoshop, Office) plus Development Software (Java, C++... etc)... only games in my comp are NFSU 2 and Zeus

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

Yeah, I think I've got about 25 games installed - at least...plus all my programming and designs software...

[CrBoy]

I just to be a HardCore gamer... I don´t have time any more...

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

I don't really play much anymore, maybe a few hours a month.

I just have all my games installed because I never know what I'll in the mood for, and I've got plenty of space :)

[CrBoy]

I know i´m there to...
I´m going home now... ;)

[audiobliss]

Assuming I actually do find those discs (and they work), I can just go ahead and create a partition on my hard drive to back-up to, do a clean instal with the disc, and then use the number on the side of my case with that disc?

[CrBoy]

Windows XP CD... or other CDs...?

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

The whole need for you to do a clean install of Windows XP is based on the assumption that the restore disc will wipe out your partitions.

Here's what I would do if I were you:

Contact Compaq support and see if restoring the image you created is going to wipe out the partitions.

If their answer is no, then just create a second partition, back up your crap, and then do the system restore thing. After you've completed the system restore, go through the add/remove programs tool and remove all the Compaq crap that you don't need and any other junk software that came with the PC. Then install all the programs that you will be using. Then grab a program like Registry Mechanic and run it - this will clean up your registry and remove references to those programs you deleted. Then, after all that, defrag your hard drive because all the adding and removing programs is going to fragment the hard drive pretty good.

If their answer is yes, then you'll need to either backup everything on DVDs and perform the remaining steps above, or you'll need to get a copy of the Windows XP CD - it can be from anyone, even your parents of friends, as long as it's not a hacked copy - and you'll need to find your Windows XP CD Key. Then do the clean install of XP, install all your programs and any updates you need (i.e. Service Pack 2) and still defrag your drive when you get through with everything...

[audiobliss]

Awesome, thanks. I'm going to look for that Windows XP CD I supposedly have. If I can't find it, I should be able to procure one from one of several friends. I'll just wait a while and then create a partition to back-up to and all that.

Thanks for all the help, fellas. Greatly appreciated!

[CrBoy]

get a copy of the Windows XP CD - it can be from anyone, even your parents of friends, as long as it's not a hacked copy

Why not...? :eek: :D

[audiobliss]

Actually, I almost asked that myself. I'm pretty sure mine is a bootleg copy. Why won't that work?

[CrBoy]

It won't work 'cause you'll use a Serial Number that somebody already use to activate the WinXP... so you won't be able to activate yours...

there are many ways to work around this protection, however all of them are illegal... :)

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

If you wanna load illegal software on your machine, that's your call - I'm just not going to advocate it on a public forum.

Also, if you do have a legitimate key, you wanna do an install from a regular XP CD, not a hacked version - because some of the fiels and stuff have been changed on the hacked version to bypass all the activation crap. I've done side-by-side comparison between a hacked and retail copy of Windows XP, and the retail version runs much better...

[CrBoy]

If you wanna load illegal software on your machine, that's your call - I'm just not going to advocate it on a public forum.

I'm not saying I do it that way... I'm just saying it can be done... any day!
Having a hacked copy of ANY program in you PC is correct? NO its not correct, everybody knows that...

I have an idea... lets all switch to Unix and cut the activation crap...! :mad:

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

that actually wasn't directed at you, but at audiobliss...

you've been around computers enough to know what's cool and what's not :)

I'm running Mandrake right now along with my WinXP OS - as soon as I get all my software to work on Linus, I'll be dumping Windows...I already use Linux about 80% of the time...

[CrBoy]

You want to know why I haven't switch 100% to linux...? because the friggin Mandrake doesn't recognize my Modem (winModem :( ), so I wouldn't have internet access from my room...

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

Have you tried ubuntu? It's on the Debian core and I believe has better out of the box support for a wider range of hardware.

I still prefer Mandrake, but you may want to check out another distribution...

Modem...dial up....what's that?

[CrBoy]

Modem...dial up....what's that?

I know I know... :D I still live in the past... i'm too lazy to set up an account for Cable Internet or ADSL...

[audiobliss]

Well, I'm certainly not big into making bootleg copies or pirating songs/movies, etc. I believe in being fair and honest, most definitely. However, I 'payed' for Windows XP, you could say, in that it was bundled on my computer. Hmm. I guess I should really say pre-installed. At any rate, I've bought Windows XP. Now I want to wipe everything out and install it again. But, Compaq doesn't give you the CD with which to do this. So, I grab a friend's CD and use it, and use my serial number. What's wrong with that? I had Windows XP. I now have Windows XP. I was under serial number A. I'm still under serial number A. Only thing that's changed is that I probably don't have all those annoying programs that originally came installed on my desktop.

I'm just missing the 'illegal/dis-honest' aspect of it.


Please don't y'all think I'm a big advocate of ripping everybody off so I can get the best deal! :p

EDIT - And if I just make a copy of my friend's disc, or if he makes a copy and gives it to me - now I just don't have to make the effort to borrow his.

[audiobliss]

CrBoy - you really, really, really need to go with cable or dsl!! We switched to cable a while back....amazing difference!!

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

If he's got a hacked copy, and you install it using your serial number, I don't see any issue with that from an ethical standpoint.

However, those hacked copies of XP sometimes don't run as well as retail because some of the files are changed to get around the activation crap - so it may or may not run as well as yours. For me, the hacked version did NOT run as well, but YMMV

[audiobliss]

I see your point; hadn't thought about that. Don't guess it really matters, as I can't find the disc, anyways! lol

What's 'YMMV' mean?

[ND13]

What's 'YMMV' mean?

Your mileage may vary

[audiobliss]

Ahh. Thanks. I keep forgetting these internet abbreviations! :p

[CrBoy]

CrBoy - you really, really, really need to go with cable or dsl!! We switched to cable a while back....amazing difference!!

Tell me about it! At work we have a DEDICATED E1 Connection (2Mb/s) so when I get home and I surf the Net using my Dial up I get like :eek:

[audiobliss]

Whao!!!! Man, that's a fast connection. Like, you're there before you even click on the link. LOL

Wow....

[CrBoy]

I have a Friend that works at an Internet Cafe and they have a 4Mb/s connection...! THAT'S FAST!!!

But an E1 is fine...