why did I lose all my data? backup ideas?

[rjnagle]

I have an axim x50v.

I drained my battery down (more on that later), and when I recharged it, I noticed that all my data on the actual device seemed to have disappeared. Also, it prompted me to test the cursor/screen along with a little tutorial. The contents on my cf card is fine. It's as if I installed a totally fresh OS on the device and were using it for the first time.


Here is what I guessed had happened, but I don't understand why. In order to keep the lcd on while cooking a recipe, I switched the settings so the LCD wouldn't turn off. Then I forgot to change the setting, so the battery changed completely. As I understand it there are two types of batteries: the removable battery and the internal battery. I'm guessing that I had drained both batteries, and that caused the total reset.

But why? And why wasn't the OS also removed from the device when volatile memory was wiped clean? Also, why would a device have this Archilles heel; if Dell said, "Buy this, and if your batteries totally discharge, you lose all your data!" I doubt anybody would buy a device.

I haven't had time to check the last time I backed my PDA data up, but I may have lost a good bit of data. Any suggestions about how to prevent this situation from occuring again?

Robert Nagle

[Howard2k]

The OS in in non-volatile memory so it's safe. You data in main memory would be lost when the power is lost (batteries go flat). Your data in Built In Storage and Storage Cards would have survived.

These are battery operated devices. I think it probably does say somewhere that you'll lose your data in the documentation, but regardless it's common knowledge (no offense). Ironically with WM2005 they are moving to using persistant storage for data so it should be a non-issue.

To prevent it from happening again:

1 - understand that if the batteries go flat you will lose data
2 - keep your batteries charged. If you have problems being away from power then consider a bigger battery. Or set a recurring calendar reminder to charge.
3 - Backup on a regular basis. Again a calendar reminder is good.

These are good habits to get into, even with WM2005 around the corner.

[psionandy]

I use Sprite backup.. It is set to backup everynight at 11pm and also does an 'emergency' backup if the battery gets too low

[Howard2k]

Activesync also have a (limited) backup option too. So you don't HAVE to purchase additional software if you don't want to.

[psionandy]

You can also use the built in backup app too..

The problem which I had was...er um.. well...you see.. I err.. OK I just forgot to back it up. And Sprite is automatic. Still if you have the self discipline then The built in app may work for you

[tiger_splash]

I wouldn't suggest the builkt-in app to anyone. It will not back up your SD or CF card, which happened to be corrupted on one of my hard resets. Also, twice I lost my info due to battery discharge and twice the program failed me in bringing me back. When I would choose restore the program told me there was no backup without letting me even choose the backup file (which was sitting in the BIS). Never again. Even if you use shareware for everything else, consider Sprite. The purchase is worth it.

[rjnagle]

<<
....well, obviously it's not common knowledge for me! (And seriously, I used to work for Dell!).

I am a technical writer and most of my job is trying to bridge the gap between what engineers consider too obvious to mention and what consumers are clueless about. Maybe you can call me an expert in stupidity;

>>
I use Sprite backup.. It is set to backup everynight at 11pm and also does an 'emergency' backup if the battery gets too low
>>

This is a really useful feature. Definitely be buying that one.
http://www.mobiletechreview.com/soft...ite-Backup.htm
I'll check it out.

Thanks a lot for your help. Valuable information indeed. rj

[bluuz]

Here's what MS says about backup in ActiveSync:

"To protect your work, use Microsoft ActiveSync to create a backup file that contains all files, databases, personal information manager (PIM) information, and RAM-based programs on your mobile device. The backup file is stored on your desktop computer."

So is this to say that nothing in BIS or SD card is backed up, or only data but not programs?

[Howard2k]

The AS backup will do your main memory but that's it. No BIS or storage card and importantly no incremental restore. But it's better than nothing.