Resolving Backup Problems

Backup problems are usually associated with the backup media being used at the time. If a backup fails during the backup process an error will be generated by the Windows operating system. This error is passed to the UniRes backup program which will then report an error and the backup will stop.

What to do is a backup fails or can't be started.

Floppy Disk Backup Problems

Firstly, you should only use floppy disk backups as a last resort as floppy disks are not a reliable media. Consider investing in a CDRW drive for your computer.

To fix a backup problem with floppy disks do this ..

Format or re-format all the floopy disks in the backup set.

How?

Place the first floppy disk in the floppy drive (usually the A: drive).

Exit UniRes if it is still running.

Select My Computer on your windows desktop. You should see the A: drive Icon.

Right Click on the Icon using your mouse.

Select Format from the List (Left Click)

Do a Full format (not a quick format). Make sure you are formatting the Floppy A: drive, as all data is erased by doing a format on a disk.

Repeat the format process for all the floppy disks in the set.

If the format fails for a floppy disk - replace it with a new floppy disk. Format it and make a new label.

If problems persist, the Floppy disk drive may be faulty. Obtain a Floppy Disk Cleaner kit and try cleaning the floppy drive heads. Alternatively call a technician as it might need replacing.

CD Backup Problems

Usually if your CD Backups were working, but are now failing, the problem is just that the CD being used is full. Try formatting the CD using the Packet Writing Software (InCD program)

Other things to check ..

Is the CD scratched or dirty? Clean it using a soft cloth or replace the CD disk.

Has the InCD program been unloaded?

The InCD program places an Icon on the tool bar at the lower right of your windows desktop. Check to see if it's there. If not, you may need to restart the InCD program Packet Writing Software.

Tape Backups

Like the CD Backup method, Tape Drives can be controled by third party software drivers which makes the tape drive look like a hard disk drive. Tapes used may wear out in time and need replacing with frequent use. You can also try formatting a used tape to see if it can still deliver reliable backups. When in doubt, replace the tape and format a new one.

If you are not using UniRes to backup your UniRes files, but are using a different backup system, you will need to consult the help files that come with your backup device.

Seek Expert Help

If your backup system is failing and you can not resolve the problem yourself, you will need to call a computer maintenance technician as soon as possible to have the problem resolved. Backups are extremely important in any business software and problems should be rectified as soon as possible.

Technical Help

The backup system in UniRes works reliably, but it does rely on many other programs in the Windows Operating system. When your backup system is installed - setup and tested properly, the UniRes backup system works very well.

If you have a problem with your backup system you must call for professional help if you can not resolve the problem easily yourself. The UniRes Support service can help with most backup problems, but some issues require "hands on" on site work.

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