backup utility automation, specs

[vidman3117]

(As I am a newby to this, I hope this request is not too elementary) I am planning to get a large usb 2.0 external drive to back up everything on my 2 drives (C&D)docs, photos(uncompressed), favorites, emails, addresses, folders in a scheduled manner. The backup software should be able to backup only the items that are not already stored, no compression on photos, and can be scheduled to do it every day. If I have 2 drives with approx 50gb of data, how long would this take?
Thanks,
Vidman

 

[bcastner]

All of this depends on how much is now stored, and how much is changed on a daily basis.

You have several choices. I would use either Acronis True Image or Norton/Symantec Ghost 9.

You can with either select that the image is not to be compressed, but with Acronis (and I believe Ghost 9 as well) you always have the option of "Mounting" the image, even if compressed. In addition you can use incremental backups that reflect only changes. (I do the whole thing anew each time).

This will add a new drive letter, your "Virtual" image, even with compression. As the backup occurs in the background you can continue to use your machine normally, or schedule it for late at night.

The second set of choices is essentially sync software. I have a great freeware recommendation, as well as a very good and modestly priced commercial product:

SyncBak -- excellent freeware

http://www.syncback.com/

Second Copy

http://www.centered.com/