Database Users

Configurations backup strategy before installing a new ROM

I was wondering what is your backup/restore strategy when changing ROMs.
When I install a freshly cooked ROM, there are 3 stages for installation:
1. Installing the ROM itself which is obvious.
2. Install all personal cabs - with or without UC support.
3. Configure everything to work according to my personal configurations.
The most annoying part is the 3rd, since I have to go through each and every program, and run the process, of configuring all the options. This process always, takes me longer then installing everything.
Is there a way to backup/restore globally all settings?
Amir.

http://www.spritesoftware.com/products/sprite-backup/full-edition

I know that software. Doesn't it's OS migration option is risky?
I remember reading many bad opinions against using that option...
???
Amir.

amir77a said:
I know that software. Doesn't it's OS migration option is risky?
I remember reading many bad opinions against using that option...
???
Amir.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I shouldn't agree more.
There's a lot of confliction and problematic after full restore the backup from the previous ROM to the new ROM.
It's my experiences.
KCJ

If you're willing to spend a bit of effort, you can have your device automatically configure 99.9% of what you want, as part of the customization occuring after flashing.
Look up SASHIMI, which should live on your SD card (or whatever you have which survives a hard reset). It basically install all the CABs, REGs and provisioning XMLs you want, plus runs any Mortscript, all in one big batch, according to certain sequencing rules. It can be configured to launch upon inserting the SD card, or as part of UC (User Customization), or to execute UC as part of itself, or run it manually. Most CABs which require manual intervention can be automated by using clever Mortscripts. The REGs and XMLs take care of configuring apps, games, serial numbers (legal, of course) or even network settings and Manila tweaks.
I now routinely flash a new ROM and leave my device for 30 minutes. I need to check in on it to tap past the WM setup dialogs. With that out of the way:
- all tools, apps and games CABs are installed, many with accompanying REGs for configuration
- WiFi is configured with my most used hotspots
- time is synchronized (assuming WiFi is available during this process)
- 3G is disabled (for better battery life), my data connection is configured but disabled (a la MoDaCo NoData)
- Pocket Outlook is setup with my Exchange account, an initial sync is performed (assuming WiFi is available), and additional mail folders are tagged for syncing
- PPCPimBackup restores my most recent backup of SMSes and call history (I've flashed or hard reset probably 20 times the last 2 months, and don't miss a single SMS/call since the day I bought the HD).
- My Start menu and programs list is neatly sorted into folders (of course this needs rework when I switch between ROM chefs)
- AEButton Plus is setup with my buttons the way I want them.
- SKScheMa is setup with the profile changes I want (GSM/WiFi off, silent and low brightness at night)
The only thing I really miss is to automatically provision a couple of Bluetooth pairings (a headset and 2 PCs). Apparently the encryption keys used for storing these pairings, is renewed on each hard reset. Typically, the first morning after a hard reset, while driving my car, my HD beeps every 1 minute as the car kit attempts to connect, and I'm usually unable to deal with it until I stop the car.
As you can imagine, there's quite a bit of initial manual labour, but I guarantee you that it's worth it.
I recommend that you get the following: Resco Explorer (w/registry addon), Orneta Notepad (or MobilePad). With these, most of the work can be carried out on the phone itself. To figure out the registry settings for a certain program or option, there are two ways:
- manual search, typically fast and has a very high success rate by first visiting HKLM\Software and HKCU\Software, then looking for the vendor or software name.
- registry diff, slow but very accurate, requires PC (for now). Export HKLM+HKCU (using multiple select in Resco regedit) *before* you make the configuration change, and *after* you've made the change. Copy the two reg files to a PC and do a diff (WinMerge should do a good job). Alternatively, you can use a Windows tool like Registry Workshop or CeRegEditor to export the registries, but I think the first way is faster, and you can actually prepare the exports on the move, then do the diffs when you come home.
Some programs store configuration data in files - these *may* be a bit harder to figure out, but they're usually in the installation folder. Once you've set up such a program to your liking, copy its CAB to SASHIMI\Auto\CAB and the configuration file to SASHIMI\Auto\Root\Program Files\<app name>, and the app will be as you want it after the hard reset.
SASHIMI can also back up such files for you, just put the paths into filebackup.ini. Similarly regbackup.ini can perform registry backups that will be automatically restored after a hard reset. You need to run or schedule this backup yourself, though, but both can be performed with one shortcut to SASHIMI.
I'm sorry for making this so long - I'll stop now, and hope this post provides a bit of inspiration to others. I can also help with certain aspects of UC - I'd love to post my custom tools and scripts, they're just not prepared for public consumption yet.

intersting idea.
I tried Sashimi before, but I gave up due to prior needed investment.
I'll might adopt that idea, which seems to be very useful.
Amir.

Sashimi can basically accomplish the same as UC/SDConfig.txt - it just provides a simple UI and conventions that makes setting it up so much easier. I did play with SDConfig.txt (and various tools to automate/ease its maintainability), but quickly found maintaining the file very time consuming and error prone, and practically impossible without using a PC. Sashimi you simply copy to your SD card, and you can run it right away (it won't do anything). Next step is to copy a CAB to Auto\CAB, then run Sashimi, and the CAB will be installed.
Ah well, I hope it proves useful to others!

amir77a said:
I know that software. Doesn't it's OS migration option is risky?
I remember reading many bad opinions against using that option...
???
Amir.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use it without any problem and flash my hd every day should use it correctly :
Overall performance of backups and restores are clearly within my expectations. My backups can range from 4-9 minutes and restores can take a little longer which is worth every minute for a disaster recovery plan. I have yet to try the FTP or TCP/IP backups so I cannot report on those features, but for “geeks-sake” I will look into these when time permits and report on my findings.
Two other interesting features of Sprite Backup are the Restore “Upgrade” (see Figure B PC console screen) feature and the Sprite Explorer tool. The Restore “Upgrade” features allows restoration of a backup to the same device with a different ROM (usually an upgraded ROM) or to a different device entirely. While this is an unpopular move by most device users, it is an interesting and perhaps useful function for those who do not wish to reinstall applications or data after a ROM or device change. The Sprite Explorer tool is reminiscent of Symantec’s Ghost Explorer tool. Sprite Explorer allows browsing of your Sprite Backup EXE files so that you can review the details of the backups and restore individual files to your PC. Sprite Explorer will also identify which version of Sprite Backup was used for the creation of the EXE file. When browsing a password protected EXE backup file, Sprite Explorer will prompt for the correct password before revealing the contents.
fonte: http://www.fuzemobility.com/?p=1805

Thanks.
I made a fresh backup with Sprite, after a new fresh install.
When Dutty will launch his 1.9 ROM , I will try o upgrade with Sprite, otherwise I'll goto sashimi.
Amir.

ugumba said:
I'm sorry for making this so long
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I liked the posting for its longeness... I really made me wanting to have a look at SASHIMI.
However, I am not much into MortScript, yet - would you mind to share your customization files?
I think it would be very helpful for me to have a starting point for my own work...
Thank you,
The Whistler

what about spbbackup2, easiest backup ever, and the files are self extractable so you don't even need to install spbbackup again to restore a rom.

i like the tought of just installing the ONE app.
And when i flash, that this will restore my personal settings, games, and programmas.
going to read up on this!
still, thanxxx!!

ugumba said:
I recommend that you get the following: Resco Explorer (w/registry addon), Orneta Notepad (or MobilePad). With these, most of the work can be carried out on the phone itself. To figure out the registry settings for a certain program or option, there are two ways:
- manual search, typically fast and has a very high success rate by first visiting HKLM\Software and HKCU\Software, then looking for the vendor or software name.
- registry diff, slow but very accurate, requires PC (for now). Export HKLM+HKCU (using multiple select in Resco regedit) *before* you make the configuration change, and *after* you've made the change. Copy the two reg files to a PC and do a diff (WinMerge should do a good job). Alternatively, you can use a Windows tool like Registry Workshop or CeRegEditor to export the registries, but I think the first way is faster, and you can actually prepare the exports on the move, then do the diffs when you come home.
Some programs store configuration data in files - these *may* be a bit harder to figure out, but they're usually in the installation folder. Once you've set up such a program to your liking, copy its CAB to SASHIMI\Auto\CAB and the configuration file to SASHIMI\Auto\Root\Program Files\<app name>, and the app will be as you want it after the hard reset.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All very helpful so nevermind the long windedness. I've been using Sashimi and I've managed to backup some apps to my satisfaction. I've have been trying to backup CorePlayer settings. I have backed up its regs keys. I have also backed up it's program files folder and reinstalled it manually with no success. What is the configuration file you are referring to that should be copied to SASHIMI\Auto\Root\Program Files\<app name>? Do you mean a file within program files or some other file?

DRTigerlilly said:
what about spbbackup2, easiest backup ever, and the files are self extractable so you don't even need to install spbbackup again to restore a rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SBPBackup backs up the complete registry, so this would be a problem if something has changed from one rom Version to another (as f.e. stated in the first post of the Energy rom´s thread), thus this program would not be ideal for restoring a backup after flashing to a different rom.
Restoring backup´s to the same rom version however, this is what sbpbackup is perfect for.

Cheech1976 said:
SBPBackup backs up the complete registry, so this would be a problem if something has changed from one rom Version to another (as f.e. stated in the first post of the Energy rom´s thread), thus this program would not be ideal for restoring a backup after flashing to a different rom.
Restoring backup´s to the same rom version however, this is what sbpbackup is perfect for.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed, SPB Backup should only be used emails, contacts etc.
A full backup should only be used if you are trying to restore rom i.e. if something happened to it. It shouldn't be used when swapping between different rom builds as the registry settings/paths would be different

does SPB backup work for rom upgrade?

for example from 1.52 to 1.56 rom..
will the rom upgrade option really preserve everything FLAWLESSLY ? and still not mess up the upgrade?
anyone tried? thanks!!

anyone please?

I tried it and it worked but with disabled overwrite system files function

so the new rom works and your programs? any failed?

Yes, i had only to reinstall the colored topbar.

walkergeri said:
Yes, i had only to reinstall the colored topbar.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sorry what is the colored topbar
how about settings? are they restored? like cache size , backlight level, no start up animation.. stuff like that,,,

leobox1 said:
sorry what is the colored topbar
how about settings? are they restored? like cache size , backlight level, no start up animation.. stuff like that,,,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
not all, but this are little things to do again, more important for me was that i didnt need to reinstall all programs.

Problem is that on cooked ROMs always some system files are updated or replaced by better performing ones. If you restore your old files there is always a risk overwriting the newer files. It is recommended therefore to only back up personal data, and re-install programs used. You decide.

Lucas0511 said:
Problem is that on cooked ROMs always some system files are updated or replaced by better performing ones. If you restore your old files there is always a risk overwriting the newer files. It is recommended therefore to only back up personal data, and re-install programs used. You decide.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i second this. even if your new rom runs after restoring your backup you have lost your registry data or overwritten newer system files.
so it is recommened to restore only your personal data an reinstall all those applications you want to use.
when you like to flash several roms to test your favourite one you should think about using sashimi. it´s a tool to autoconfigure your system after flashing.

leobox1 said:
for example from 1.52 to 1.56 rom..
will the rom upgrade option really preserve everything FLAWLESSLY ? and still not mess up the upgrade?
anyone tried? thanks!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've tried this and it causes problems with new roms and softwares operation. If your restoring just restore PIM Backup i.e. emails, contacts etc and don't restore software, apps, registry settings.
In effect your puttings a better rom on with new registry settings when you upgrade from 1.52 to 1.56. But if your restore registry settings from 1.52 your overwriting these newer files which corrupts new rom

Fallen Spartan said:
I've tried this and it causes problems with new roms and softwares operation. If your restoring just restore PIM Backup i.e. emails, contacts etc and don't restore software, apps, registry settings.
In effect your puttings a better rom on with new registry settings when you upgrade from 1.52 to 1.56. But if your restore registry settings from 1.52 your overwriting these newer files which corrupts new rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
but there is a function not to overwrite system files while backup.

walkergeri said:
but there is a function not to overwrite system files while backup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly you don't override these. You just backup & restore PIM info, emails and possible some documents.
Leave System data unticked unless you know what your doing in the registry & databases
I would use a custom backup and just check the first 2 options PIM & email if your restoring betweening 2 different rom versions as you stated

arrghhh so this is not for me.. i wanted a solution in between upgrades.. i dont want to reinstall apps!

Don't get Lazy!
I think it would be unwise to take this sort of "Lazy" option for all the reasons mentioned previously. I have a stack of programs on mine and yet it only takes an hour or so to install these programs and then perhaps a day or 2 to setup and optimise the settings. Each of these programs may associate itself in a totally different manner from one ROM to the next....in short:
LAZY option: risky, might glitch up your operating systems
Re-install option: gives you the chance to setup and optimise to the new ROM
....know where I always start.....

Fallen Spartan said:
I've tried this and it causes problems with new roms and softwares operation. If your restoring just restore PIM Backup i.e. emails, contacts etc and don't restore software, apps, registry settings.
In effect your puttings a better rom on with new registry settings when you upgrade from 1.52 to 1.56. But if your restore registry settings from 1.52 your overwriting these newer files which corrupts new rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i completely agree with that!

Spb Backup too "smart"?

I'm using Spb Backup to make full backups. So far it's OK I even tried to restore after HR and it always worked.
Recently I made another full backup and upgraded to the latest stock ROM from SE service site.
Made restore... I mean the full restore and now I'm trying to figure out did I ruin the ROM upgrade?
I do understand that Spb Backup doesn't change the ROM itself. But what happen when I restore the full backup made with previous R2A to my X1i upgraded to R3A? Does it somehow substitute system files of the newer WinMobile 6.1 R3A with older files from 6.1 R2A?
I don't want to use partial restores (PIM etc.) as soon as it's a long and difficult process to restore all the software and features installed.
Thanks in advice.

The general recommendation is to have a clean start on a new ROM and not to restore from backups - for precisely the reasons you say.
It is indeed a long chore to reinstall everything, but that's the safest way to ensure a clean start.
Some backup programs claim to be able to do upgrade restores, but I've never had much success with them.

Understood. Thanks.

this probably isn't much help but I recently put the r3a on a new xperia from this site then used spb to restore a previous backup from r2a on my previous phone straight from the exe backup (did not install spb backup first).
The only problem i encountered was having to reinstall 1 or 2 applications.

sms2000 said:
I'm using Spb Backup to make full backups. So far it's OK I even tried to restore after HR and it always worked.
Recently I made another full backup and upgraded to the latest stock ROM from SE service site.
Made restore... I mean the full restore and now I'm trying to figure out did I ruin the ROM upgrade?
I do understand that Spb Backup doesn't change the ROM itself. But what happen when I restore the full backup made with previous R2A to my X1i upgraded to R3A? Does it somehow substitute system files of the newer WinMobile 6.1 R3A with older files from 6.1 R2A?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is an old and somewhat hoary question.
In short, ROM upgrades always re-organise chunks of the Registry from earlier ROM's. So restoring a previous backup over a ROM upgrade risks conflict with these changes
There are several safer methods for rebuilding on a new ROM:
1) use UC ... many, many posts on this + a 150+ page thread
2) there is a thread on this X1 sub-forum showing how to use a \2577 folder on the card to re-install CAB's as an automated process (Flashaholics Anonymous, I think)
3) if you have most apps installed on the card, a lot will run without re-installation, or at least just the addition of SN etc. Then they won't show up in the "Remove Programs" utility, but to de-install, just delete the folder from the card and then delete the shortcut.
I keep a relatively up-to-date copy of all \Windows\Start Menu\Programs shortcuts in a mirror folder set on the card so restoring these is simple
To test the differences in Registry, use the "Compare" function in the excellent freeware editor CeRegEditor

You will eventually find a bug if you restore a backup file after changing rom versions.

There is a "Force ROM update" mode in the options when you restore. I've never tried it because I like the idea of a clean install when i upgrade a ROM. But if your keen, give it ago.

Scott Whitmore said:
There is a "Force ROM update" mode in the options when you restore. I've never tried it because I like the idea of a clean install when i upgrade a ROM. But if your keen, give it ago.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And report back with your findnings
I've always wanted to try it, but am too scared

That's a problem that I have no problems...
I restored full SpbBackup without "ROM restore". System reports it's R3A, but Windows Mobile version seems to be the same with R2A. Should it be the same or not?
First I upgraded, second - I restored my backup and only third - I decided to ask this question.
OK with another system Registry organization, I can understand it very well but why any major changes from any 6.1 to another 6.1?
Jumping from 6.1 to 6.5 may and should introduce completely new Registry hives.
Still after restoring full Spb Backup everything works fine, including Hebrew support and fonts, iGo8.3 with A-GPS, additional panels etc.
Anybody with stock [ENG] R3A, please report your Windows Mobile version?

It isn't the operating system that changes - it is all the configurations, tweaks and add-ons that change.
The base OS will still be WM6.1, but there are lots of things that HTC and SE have thrown in to customise the device, and change the look and feel of it, but underneath the hood it is still basically WM6.1.
Your problem will be that you took a backup of the R2AA version which will include lots of settings, registry tweaks, software versions and suchlike. When you restore this over R3AA then you might find that the new and (hopefully) improved R3AA settings/files/whatever get overwritten with the old R2AA settings/files/whatever.
You may be okay and never notice the difference, or you might run into any number of problems...freezes, lockups, crashes, instabilities...and you're unlikely to ever figure out why.
Hence, the generally accepted wisdom is to use backup restorations to test experimental ROM upgrades, but to install from scratch if you decide to settle on a different ROM.

I think the only thing that will harm your system is when you choose to merge the old registry values with the new one. It's all the registry settings that can get confused with the new ROM.

Mr Anderson said:
It isn't the operating system that changes - it is all the configurations, tweaks and add-ons that change.
The base OS will still be WM6.1, but there are lots of things that HTC and SE have thrown in to customise the device, and change the look and feel of it, but underneath the hood it is still basically WM6.1.
Your problem will be that you took a backup of the R2AA version which will include lots of settings, registry tweaks, software versions and suchlike. When you restore this over R3AA then you might find that the new and (hopefully) improved R3AA settings/files/whatever get overwritten with the old R2AA settings/files/whatever.
You may be okay and never notice the difference, or you might run into any number of problems...freezes, lockups, crashes, instabilities...and you're unlikely to ever figure out why.
Hence, the generally accepted wisdom is to use backup restorations to test experimental ROM upgrades, but to install from scratch if you decide to settle on a different ROM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But isn't it fine to restore just emails, contacts, tasks?
Without all the tweaks, settings...

doministry said:
But isn't it fine to restore just emails, contacts, tasks?
Without all the tweaks, settings...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh yes, that kind of stuff is alright - things like emails, PIM data and any other database files used by the software (stuff like saved game files, SplashID databases, saved settings for things like PhoneWeaver, PocketPlus etc).
If you sift through the backup and do selective restoration of just the databases then you should be fine.
It's mainly the registry settings you have to worry about, as poetryrocksalot says. However, you should also avoid restoring anything which comes with the HTC or SE customisations (such as panels, HTC task manager etc) because you risk losing newer software versions and could introduce incompatibilities between old/new files.

Backup my HD2 for official ROM upgrade

So i've searched the forum for how to backup my phone as i want to install the official 1.6 rom which i got from the HTC site yesterday.
Now, after reading tons of threads i must say i'm still confused. I'm surprised there is not a simple stickied guide for noobs on how to simply backup your phone, upgrade and restore.
I was good at this malarky on symbian but this is like starting over gain, i'm clueless. I know the apps SPB, Sprite & pimbackup as well as microsoft my phone are all options for backing up but i need to get this staright in my nooby nut before i start it. So...
What i want:
1). a programme that will back up my contacts and most importantly my SETTINGS, no one seems to mention backing up the settings
2). then, should i hard reset before the upgrade? hard reset after? both? not at all?
3). I'm not bothered about registry tweaks i can redo the ones i want and i've got all my cabs on my pc ready to re-install.
Sorry if i'm being thick but i want to get this right, i don't want to lose all my settings and have to go through the entire phone to make it mine again..
If the above 3 questions can be simply answered i would be eternaly grateful

The reason backup.restire isn't really mentioned much is that restoring settings after can be a little hit and miss. I hear spb backup can restore settings after a new rom, but also there are several threads where people say the phone fails to boot after the restore and they must hard reset.
The reason is that flashing a new rom is like completely wiping and reinstalling your pc operating system. Its a whole new system, so if you restore for example some registry settings, there is no guarantee that something in the new rom isn't changed from the old one.
Personally, i just re do everything manually. (Flashed a new rom not 30 minutes ago actually, and all i have left to set up is the email accounts. Takes no more than 20 minutes all in to get ot back to how i had it before)
You should hard reset after you flash a new rom. No point doing it before. Do teh flash, let it set itself up, then hard reset, let it set itself up again, start using.
You have cabs and reg tweaks saved, (as do i) so i'd say bite the bullet and do the settings manually.

Hell Jonbaker,
Appreciate you have taken some time to search which is what a lot of new users DON'T do so lets help you out here.
I suggest you do this:
Go to the SPB Mobile website, download a trial version of SPB Backup. When you run it the software backs up the following:
- PIM Data including text messages
- Email
- Documents and files
- System files and settings.
Once you have done this, ie made the backup onto a dedicated sub directory on the SD card on your device, do the following: as a further backup, make a copy of the SPB backup file and transfer it to your PC. This way if anything goes wrong you have 2 copies of this valuable file in 2 different locations.
Next upgrade your ROM from the HTC site, which seems to be your preferred option.
Once the ROM is installed and the phone boots back up ok AND you are happy that there are no problems with the ROM then do the following:
- Use file explorer to navigate to the sub directory on your SD card where you kept the original SPB backup file from before.
- Tap on the file and it will eventually load up. Note that it is a self executable file but it sometimes takes a little while to load up
- This bit is important: once the file is loaded up, walk carefully through the screens until you see the options for Full Restore or Customized Restore
- Choose Cutomized Restore. If you don't you WILL screw up your new installation
- At the next screen you will see that ALL the options are already ticked. Untick System Data . This bit is very important. Leave all other options ticked
- Walk through the rest of the screens then let the software do its thing
- Once done the device will reboot itself and all your data, PIM, emails, etc will have been restored.
Job Done.
By the way, you will have to restore your software packages manually but at least your PIM data is already restored automatically. Afraid there is no other way out if you are changing ROMS.
If you get stuck come back and we can see what we can do. If you take your time and think logically you will be fine.
Cheers
WB
PS: Whatever you do, DO NOT DELETE the SPB Backup file as you may need it again at a later date. Also get into the habit of making regular automated backups which this software allows you to do.
I backup every day, 7 days a week, for peace of mind.
WB

samsamuel said:
You have cabs and reg tweaks saved, (as do i) so i'd say bite the bullet and do the settings manually.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
mmmm, pain in the arse, i've had this phone a week and i've spent hours and hours learning it and getting it how i want it and now i learn of the new rom and i got to start from scratch again.
After coming from the N96 where an over the air upgrade could be done and not losing a single file or setting without backing up, this is taking a huge step back for me. However, that was the only advantage i could tell you that the n96 has over this phone!
I might try the spb backup, if it fails on my settings i can hard reset no loss yeah?
Thanks for the info again mate, very helpful member

wacky.banana said:
Hell Jonbaker,
Appreciate you have taken some time to search which is what a lot of new users DON'T do so lets help you out here.
I suggest you do this:
Go to the SPB Mobile website, download a trial version of SPB Backup. When you run it the software backs up the following:
- PIM Data including text messages
- Email
- Documents and files
- System files and settings.
Once you have done this, ie made the backup onto a dedicated sub directory on the SD card on your device, do the following: as a further backup, make a copy of the SPB backup file and transfer it to your PC. This way if anything goes wrong you have 2 copies of this valuable file in 2 different locations.
Next upgrade your ROM from the HTC site, which seems to be your preferred option.
Once the ROM is installed and the phone boots back up ok AND you are happy that there are no problems with the ROM then do the following:
- Use file explorer to navigate to the sub directory on your SD card where you kept the original SPB backup file from before.
- Tap on the file and it will eventually load up. Note that it is a self executable file but it sometimes takes a little while to load up
- This bit is important: once the file is loaded up, walk carefully through the screens until you see the options for Full Restore or Customized Restore
- Choose Cutomized Restore. If you don't you WILL screw up your new installation
- At the next screen you will see that ALL the options are already ticked. Untick System Data . This bit is very important. Leave all other options ticked
- Walk through the rest of the screens then let the software do its thing
- Once done the device will reboot itself and all your data, PIM, emails, etc will have been restored.
Job Done.
By the way, you will have to restore your software packages manually but at least your PIM data is already restored automatically. Afraid there is no other way out if you are changing ROMS.
If you get stuck come back and we can see what we can do. If you take your time and think logically you will be fine.
Cheers
WB
PS: Whatever you do, DO NOT DELETE the SPB Backup file as you may need it again at a later date. Also get into the habit of making regular automated backups which this software allows you to do.
I backup every day, 7 days a week, for peace of mind.
WB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excellent advice, i will try this, i appreciatte you taking the time to write all that out in detail. I shall follow the steps you gave and report back with how i got on
one last thing, at what point should i hard reset? i'm guessing straight after i'm happy the rom has been installed correctly. Then restore?

wacky.banana said:
... - This bit is important: once the file is loaded up, walk carefully through the screens until you see the options for Full Restore or Customized Restore
- Choose Cutomized Restore. If you don't you WILL screw up your new installation
- At the next screen you will see that ALL the options are already ticked. Untick System Data . This bit is very important. Leave all other options ticked
...
By the way, you will have to restore your software packages manually but at least your PIM data is already restored automatically. Afraid there is no other way out if you are changing ROMS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great post WB.
However... your statement i quoted above is not 100% correct. Its sort of dependant upon what ROM you are upgrading to and whether a system restore using SPB Backup will cause problems or not. The only way to tell is to actually try it out!
For info here... i have used SPB Backup for years. Recently though i used SPB Backup to backup my entire system,... applications, registry etc (not PIM data as i use MS Exchange to simply sync).
I then upgraded my ROM from 1.43 stock to 1.66 stock and restored using my backup file.... everything was back... all of my apps and registry tweaks were present and working with no hiccups AT ALL. The restored system was complete and included system integrated stuff like SPB Mobile Shell, S2u2 and even my manila home screen edits and tweaks.
It was then a simple matter of synching with exchange to get my contacts back.
When you run the restore on your newly flashed device... definately do a custom restore and if you are doing system data also, SPB Backup should prompt you with the fact that it has recognised your ROM has changed. You should then run the restore in ROM upgrade mode.

hmmm, system data.. would that mean registry tweaks and installed apps? does that also include settings or is that covered else where in the restore?

jonbaker76 said:
hmmm, system data.. would that mean registry tweaks and installed apps? does that also include settings or is that covered else where in the restore?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
system data is indeed ALL of your apps and registry tweaks.
WB's post will only backup and restore your PIM data.
What i am saying is that you can indeed backup and restore EVERYTHING!
If i were you i would do two backups... one for just your PIM data,... and the other one for PIM AND system data.
Then when you do a full restore with ALL of your apps, settings, registry tweaks (system data) and get any issues... at least you have your PIM data backed up seperately.

@ Audio Oblivion,
I know where you are coming from; however I wanted to ensure that the OP had a 100% safe route back to a new working system hence me posting the intructions the way I did.
No offence to the OP but I gather at the moment that the simpler things are for him the better the end result!
To the OP, take my route (honest, I'm not precious about it) and you will be fine.
WB

ok cool, i have 2 last questions:
1). where do i install spb, i take it on the storage card as it would get removed from the phone memory.
2). What backup setting takes care of the actual phone SETTINGS is that in PIM or system data?
oh and this: one last thing, at what point should i hard reset? i'm guessing straight after i'm happy the rom has been installed correctly. Then restore?

wacky.banana said:
@ Audio Oblivion,
I know where you are coming from; however I wanted to ensure that the OP had a 100% safe route back to a new working system hence me posting the intructions the way I did.
No offence to the OP but I gather at the moment that the simpler things are for him the better the end result!
To the OP, take my route (honest, I'm not precious about it) and you will be fine.
WB
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yep... im sure he appreciates it and you are 100% correct your method is safe.
Im just expanding his horizons a little ...

I've flashed about 20 times, and each time SPB restored reliably. Worst case scenario if it doesn't work: reinstall everything by hand. Shouldn't take too long.
Suggestion: keep a folder on your SD card of all cabs you'd want reinstalled. Handy regardless of outcome.

ok cool, i have 3 last questions:
1). where do i install spb, i take it on the storage card as it would get removed from the phone memory.
2). What backup setting takes care of the actual phone SETTINGS is that in PIM or system data?
3). At what point should i hard reset? i'm guessing straight after i'm happy the rom has been installed correctly. Then restore?
I'm ready to roll, just need to know the above , many thanks

UncleBeer said:
I've flashed about 20 times, and each time SPB restored reliably. Worst case scenario if it doesn't work: reinstall everything by hand. Shouldn't take too long.
Suggestion: keep a folder on your SD card of all cabs you'd want reinstalled. Handy regardless of outcome.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
3 rules for anyone with a winmo device:
1. Keep a folder with all of your cabs, reg entries, tweak files etc on your sd card.
2. Backup PIM data (i use MS exchange.. you can use PIM Backup, SPB Backup... whatever...)
3. When you have all of your core apps installed and the phone is completely setup... Do a system data backup (i use SPB Backup).
You can now wipe your device and restore completely within minutes at any given time.

jonbaker76 said:
ok cool, i have 3 last questions:
1). where do i install spb, i take it on the storage card as it would get removed from the phone memory.
2). What backup setting takes care of the actual phone SETTINGS is that in PIM or system data?
3). At what point should i hard reset? i'm guessing straight after i'm happy the rom has been installed correctly. Then restore?
I'm ready to roll, just need to know the above , many thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) card. Pretty sure you don't have a choice.
2) as I said, I do a complete backup and a complete restore, so in my case, the question is moot.
3) right after the new ROM boots completely.

jonbaker76 said:
ok cool, i have 3 last questions:
1). where do i install spb, i take it on the storage card as it would get removed from the phone memory.
2). What backup setting takes care of the actual phone SETTINGS is that in PIM or system data?
3). At what point should i hard reset? i'm guessing straight after i'm happy the rom has been installed correctly. Then restore?
I'm ready to roll, just need to know the above , many thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Install SPB Backup wherever you like... i install all of my apps on SD unless there is a specific reason to install them on device memory (functionality issues etc). The Backup file that SPB creates is a self extracting exe file so you dont need to actually install SPB backup to run it.
2. Depends exactly which settings you are referring to but if you want what i think then the answer is system data.
3. After the rom has installed correctly and you have run through the initial device setup. Hard reset the device and run through device setup once more.

Just to clarify here:
PIM data is contacts, emails, texts and their associated accounts.
System data is EVERYTHING ELSE!

Just thought i might mention in this backup thread that there are certain apps that dont need re-installing on fresh device builds (after rom flash or wipe) if they have already been installed to removal media such as SD cards.
SPB Backup is one of them, Tom Tom is another... there are loads actually... most of my apps dont need re-installing.
The basic rule is... if you can install it to your SD card.... after a rom flash/wipe try to run it straight from the program files folder on your sd card without running the install first. If it works... simply copy a shortcut for it into the windows start menu.

Yeah the settings i'm referring to Audio Oblivion are like ringtones, backlight options etc, so that is system data.
I'm good to go now, big thanks to all that have helped me in this thread
I'm sure other WM noobs will find this thread useful if found

Let us know how you get on. Think logically and DON'T panic.
Worse comes to the worse you can always repeat your steps provided you keep hold of that SPB Backup file like your life depended on it.
WB

[Q] Solution to delete cabs/other files that are part of (original) ROM?

Hello,
I am currently using an xda touch diamond that I have been configuring and
maintaining etc. with much devotion over the last ~two years... For that reason, I understandably fear flashing. However, I am running into the hardly-any-space-on-internal-storage-left-problem, and subsequently have been heavily searching for solutions that might enable the deletion of individual rom-files. I think I read twenty times, no, it's not possible. So my question is: Would it be possible to clone the complete device without any data/config loss whatsoever into a file (simililar to what sprite backup does), and in advance of flashing/whatever you will call the complete restore process actually DELETE certain files that used to be undeletable on the device itself.
Thanks for answering this....
Matthias

me1235 said:
Hello,
I am currently using an xda touch diamond that I have been configuring and
maintaining etc. with much devotion over the last ~two years... For that reason, I understandably fear flashing. However, I am running into the hardly-any-space-on-internal-storage-left-problem, and subsequently have been heavily searching for solutions that might enable the deletion of individual rom-files. I think I read twenty times, no, it's not possible. So my question is: Would it be possible to clone the complete device without any data/config loss whatsoever into a file (simililar to what sprite backup does), and in advance of flashing/whatever you will call the complete restore process actually DELETE certain files that used to be undeletable on the device itself.
Thanks for answering this....
Matthias
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You yourself are describing a 'playful' method of building a new ROM!
This is what ROM cooks do when a ROM is made. They remove or edit - files or folders that are inbuilt and add their custom folders to it and 'cook' it. So in a sense the answer is 'YES' you can remove what you don't like in your ROM. But NO you can't do it by your suggested method. You can cook a ROM yourself or ask a cook on forum to do you a favour and delete unwanted files from your ROM and you can flash custom ROM with better space on it - Flashing is not that bad to be honest! I have done it on my WinMo - uncountable times! More than the number of times you might have changed your wallpaper!
So just make sure you read instructions on how to do it. Back up all your data on storage card and contacts too! - there you are ready to go!
After first flash of new ROM you won't take more than 2 hours making your phone as it is! (and you get faster with each flash!)

yes, drupad2drupad is right,
what I would add, I know what you mean, been facing the same decision. Spend year customizing and didn't want to loose it, on the other hand phone become slow and full. Well if there was a simple solution to this, this forum would be 95% smaller. there isn't any universal solution.
you will loose something. some settings, (registry or config files), some customizing. etc.
by using different backup programs or by setting them differently, you can trigger how much to backup, and how much to revert. BUT if you backup everything, (all registry and all files) after flashing you are right where you was. no big change.
what I do is I copy all int.memory to SD card, export all registry, backup only messages (contacts and calendar are in file pim.vol, if you end all programs and disable today plugins, you should be able to copy there and back this too, not loosing nothing by backup converting)
then flashing new rom, restore messages, copy pim.vol back and then slowly, restoring setting for each program I care to do so.
it's either a file in \program files or in \windows or a part of registry. there you open your big exported reg file, search for a name of program and cut,paste to empty reg file and import.
I made a backup script to do this automatically, but it's not possible to make it universal, it will backup only those programs it's set to backup.
back to you question about deleting rom files. you can, after a fashion, but deleting such will only add info to ignore this rom file. which means, rom file stays, but is not visible. thought, you can clean your int memory. removing temp and accumulated useless files, moving programs you use rarely to SD, but this is very time consuming and advance thing to do.

thanks
first of all, thanks to the two of you for such devoted answers! thanks a lot , really.
My guess is it will take me (I'm quite obsessive) 6-10 hours -- research etc. to make sure everything will definitely go fine and finally restore everything to the prior state. Never having messed around with flashing etc., I think it's too much effort to gain some lousy 20 mb.
I still really appreciate your answers. It's a shame there is no universal method to do this is a few steps, with some utility, for everyone...
So I was wondering, what do you think, on a system like the touch diamond, running windows mobile 6.1, with I think ~100 mb internal storage, how many mb should in your opinion at any point in time be free space, to ensure things are running smooth? (And, I suppose/hope flash memory deterioration due to little space left is not that much of an issue...)
Else I'd go as far as "donating" some chrismas bucks to some kindred spirit in guiding me through the process, I just don't have the nerve to do this, for 10 mb... never again will I buy a device that has too small internal storage!
thanks to everyone...
matthias
(edit) ps.: I find it funny that the files in rom can store data (like the 16 MB mxip initdb.vol which is said to carry contacs I believe) - for the novice, like myself, it's kind of difficult to understand why files can be written to, but not decreased in size to free up memory somehow - or do they have a "size limit" / "fixed size"?) but anyway, you need not comment on this.

There is a way that you can reduce your file storage size quite easily....
Thanks to AnDim, see here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=377514.
Do the following steps:
1. Use a back-up tool such as Resco Backup and make a back-up on your storage card.
2. Use Total Commander and copy all of the files in your Windows directory that are NOT part of the ROM. You can do this quite easily by chosing the "Hide files in Rom" part. Then copy and save these files on your desktop.
3. Use AnDim's HTC ROM Image Editor. Open your original rom with this (I hope you have it).
4. Add the files you copied from your desktop to the rom you opened with AnDim's tool.
5. Delete any duplicate files that were in the original rom from the ones you just copied.
6. Save the new rom and flash it.
7. Use Resco Back-up to restore your original rom.
8. Use Total Commander to delete the files created by Resco Back-Up in your Windows folder that you had previously added to the rom.
After all of this, you will find you have much more storage space and a quicker rom because all of the files you added that overwrote a rom file will no longer have duplicate files and also rom files take up less storage space.
Good luck!

hi mitsi,
thanks for that post, highly appreciated! this looks like a solution to the problem I described -- After doing some time-consuming cleanup, I now have some ~10 MB free, so I think I'll wait for this to decrease down to let's say 5MB in the future, and then follow your steps -- which seem to be advanced, but feasible. This is really a great hint. Hope others who run into the same problem will find this thread helpful too. I'm really impressed with quality and helpfulness in this forum, outstanding. Will have to go out and help others where I can now to compensate for my bad conscience
Grüße nach Berlin aus dem Schwarzwald!
M.

I recommend using SPB backup.
I used that program to do what you wanted to do ever since I used Axim x5 (currently TP2).
I have it set up so it automatically make a backup every week on Sunday, so just in case if something goes wrong (bad cab or driver) I can have most of important changes and not LOSE a thing.
So, good luck : )