why buy a backup util - is Data Backup no good?

09-02-04, 04:08 AM

I have noticed on a number of threads people recommending the purchase of a backup utility.
I have been using the Data Backup program that comes included on my Axim X30. Is this no good - can I not rely on it to get me out of a jam?
I have been using this app to backup up to the built in storage in the hope that if I ever let my battery run completely flat I just need to charge up and restore. Will this work?

Thanks and apologies if this is a dumb question?

Gigi · 09-02-04, 07:33 AM

Yes, you can use the utility that comes with your Axim (or with ActiveSync), but many people have found it unreliable (including myself). Third party apps, such as Sprite Backup, are more reliable and have more features. For example, you can do selective backups/restores and scheduled backups. You can even create a self-executing restore file that just restores everything without first having Sprite installed.

09-02-04, 07:58 AM

Originally Posted by harry66

I have noticed on a number of threads people recommending the purchase of a backup utility.
I have been using the Data Backup program that comes included on my Axim X30. Is this no good - can I not rely on it to get me out of a jam?
I have been using this app to backup up to the built in storage in the hope that if I ever let my battery run completely flat I just need to charge up and restore. Will this work?

Thanks and apologies if this is a dumb question?

Hi Harry - This is not a dumb questio, actually it is a very good question, once I asked in the beginning. I held the same stance "Why do I need 3rd party backup if I can use AS and/or the integrated Dell Backup Util?

It's really a matter of preference and need. If the ActiveSync backup works for you, stick with it. I purchased Sprite Backup Standard, and suffice it to say, I've gotten alot of use out of it. IMO, it's much more advanced (yet simple) than AS or the Dell Backup utility.

I will surmize it like this:

The AS backup util can't get you out of a Jam if you don't have your PC with you, but the Dell utility can.

The Dell Utility is "All or Nothing". You can restore all your files, or none of them. It will let you backup and restore individial databases.

I'm pretty crazy with my Axim, hacking away at stuff, deleting registry keys, messing with databases, and Sprite has come to my rescue many a time.

If AS and the Dell util work for you, stick with them, If you start to see that the backups and or restores are not working properly, look towards a 3rd party utility.

09-02-04, 08:26 AM

I have never tried a restore with the Dell utility. What kind of problems can you have with it? Does it really fail to restore?? I only ever do complete backups. My main use for my PDA is GPS and would hate to get somewhere - have to hard reset (for whatever reason) - and then not be able to use the GPS software.

My biggest fear is someday I will let the battery run flat and then I wont be able to restore via ActiveSync again. I had this problem with my previous Medion PDA. I didnt use it for a week or two so the batteries went flat. When I charged it up again ActiveSync would not recognise it! It kept trying to create a new partnership!! Never did figure out what that was all about. This was about the time the Axim X30 was available so I just took the Medion back to Aldi, got a full refund and bought the X30!

09-02-04, 08:36 AM

I've used the Dell Backup utility way back with the X5, and I am still using it with my X30 High. For me it has ALWAYS restored after a hard reset or when the battery went dead.

09-02-04, 08:47 AM

As I said, it it works for you, stick with it.

tussin · 09-02-04, 08:51 AM

I have the same fear with my GPS software, so I always carry the cab file for the install on an SD card with the maps. Should I run into a problem I copy it over, and reinstall. It may not be a complete system restore, but it would get me out of a pinch.

frogster · 09-16-04, 02:51 PM

where do you find this dell utility? i want to make a backup before I do a hard reset.

09-16-04, 04:23 PM

On my Axim X30h its under Start->Programs and its called Data Backup.

Waxwing · 09-16-04, 05:12 PM

I'm with Wooch, in fact, I bought Sprite standard on his recommendation, after reading some of his posts. I agree that the one that comes with the Dell is fine but his points are well taken and I did (not been unhappy with the results either). :approve:

09-16-04, 05:13 PM

my backup policy is to leave files that I need (data files and spreadsheets and the like) in My Docs where it is sync'd regularly; I also keep files on the CF and SD cards.
all the apps that I installed I keep on my PC.

If I have a problem where I would loose all my data (which has not happened in the 1.5 years I have had my Axim) I would prefer to install all apps new and fresh, and then copy the lost data by performing a sync.

HighTymes · 09-17-04, 04:13 AM

ya i have never had a problem with built in backup utility on my x3i or my x30 once. If i hard start i want everything i h ad before and nothing less. Hope i don't start having problems with it now,lol.