Welcome

Welcome to continuous automatic backups using AutoSave.  You no longer have to worry about backing up each day.  AutoSave runs in the background making sure you are protected from the unexpected.  No matter how good we do our job it is still a good idea to do periodic, full system backups.


Before You Call

Before you call technical support, please have your version and serial number ready. This information will be verified. As well, we need to know the exact nature of your problem and what you have done to attempt to remedy it.


Technical Support Hours

Our technical support hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Technical Support is on a first come, first served basis. We can also be reached by fax or e-mail; however, if your problem is urgent it is most likely in your best interest to contact us directly.


Key Benefits

AutoSave provides a number of unique capabilities:

•	Hassle free protection against data loss

•	ActiveBack™ technology for continuous automatic backup

•	No special hardware or tapes

•	Easy for anyone to use

•	Saves your most valuable work files

•	Restore different saved versions of a document or file

•	Works on laptops even with infrequent network connections

•	Recover deleted files, even if the recycle bin has been emptied


Technical Highlights

Highlights of AutoSave features:

•	Fully compatible with Windows 95, Windows 98 and Windows NT

•	Custom Configurable for special needs

•	On-the-fly compression of backup files

•	Transparent operation - No scheduling, delays, or interference

•	Backup to network, removable media, or local drives

•	Up to 999 versions savable (default is typically 5)

•	Limit the backup space and/or ensure a free space limit on the backup device


How AutoSave Works

AutoSave checks any file that is created or written to the disk to see if the file is an important work file.  If so, the file is compressed and saved to the backup location.  This process is a lower priority than your work, so it does not interrupt anything you are doing.

In the rare event that you quickly shutdown the system before the backup of a file is complete, when Windows next runs, the process automatically completes without any intervention.

AutoSave does not waste time or disk space saving your OS or application programs, as these can always be reloaded from the original installation disks or CD-ROM.

If you currently use a full backup program, for example one that stores all files to a tape, we recommend you continue using it on a periodic basis.  This can save recovery time in the event of a total system loss.  After this full backup is restored, you can use AutoSave’s Restore Wizard to restore all your important work files that have been modified since the out-of-date full backup was made.


Quick Installation

Installing AutoSave is very easy and normally takes less just a few minutes.

Insert the CD into your CD-ROM drive.  If the Installation screen does not

automatically appear then:

•	From the Start menu, select Run

•	Type d:\setup.exe and press Enter.  Use the letter of your CD-ROM drive in place of “d”, if it is not d drive.

•	Follow the on-screen instructions from the Installation Wizard

First, the AutoSave files will be copied to your system from the CD.  Next, the Setup Wizard will run to set your specific backup (archive) location and backup options.   You can select either a Typical or Custom Configuration from the Setup Wizard.   Setup Wizard can be run any time later to make changes to your backup options.

Once the AutoSave files are installed and the Setup Wizard is done, you will be instructed to shutdown Windows and restart the system.  This will activate AutoSave.

The first time Windows is restarted after AutoSave is installed, you will be prompted by Backup Wizard, to save your existing work files. This one-time operation will scan your system for all your older work files, and save them to the backup archive.

If you already have a full backup and/or if you do not have any work files of importance, you can skip this step.  Since a backup of all of your work files may take some time, you may wish to delay this step until a later time of your choosing.

AutoSave is now fully active and will save copy(s) of your work files as you create or modify them.  There is nothing else to do or remember.  AutoSave will transparently do the job for you in the background!


Typical Configuration

Choosing the Typical Configuration from Setup Wizard will provide you with the most commonly used settings.  Typical will automatically locate the best available device to store your backups.   You will have the option of overriding this choice and selecting either a different drive and/or directory.   In addition, the Typical choice will set your default options and file exclusions.  If these values have already been set, you can either leave the options as-is, or reset all options to the defaults.  A handy compare function is available if you need to compare the defaults with your current settings.

The default settings will set the following options:

•	Standard filename exclusions (applications and non-work files)

•	Backup files are compressed

•	Backup of a new or modified file will occur 1 minute after it is closed/saved

•	As files are saved, AutoSave keeps the last five versions

If you prefer to change or add to these settings, use the Custom Configuration option.


Custom Configuration

The Custom option allows you to tailor AutoSave’s operation to your unique needs.  Four tabbed dialogs are available to set the Backup Location, Include List, Exclude List, and Options.


License and Warranty Agreement for AutoSave

V Communications License and Warranty Agreement

By using the enclosed Software you indicate your acceptance of all terms and conditions of this license agreement. If you do not agree with these terms then V Communication is unwilling to license the Software to you, in which event you should return the full product with proof of purchase to the dealer from whom it was acquired within sixty days of purchase for a refund of the purchase price, or by destroying all copies of the Software and the accompanying documentation.

The Software that accompanies this license (the “Software”) is the property of V Communications or its licensors and is protected by copyright law. While V Communications continues to own the Software, you will have certain rights and obligations to use the Software after acceptance of this license as follows:

Number of Copies Licensed If you have not purchased a multi-site license, you are authorized to use only a single copy of the Software on a single computer. If you have purchased a multi-site license, you are authorized to use the Software on no more than the number of computers for which you have purchased licenses. To purchase or expand your multi-site license, contact V Communications sales@v-com.com or at 1-800-648-8266.

Copies. You can make only one copy of the Software for backup or archival purposes. You may not copy the documentation that accompanies the Software.

Transfer of License.  After written notice to V Communications, you may transfer the Software, to another person or entity, provided that no copies or older versions of the Software are retained, and the transferee agrees to the terms of this agreement.

Non-permitted Uses.  You may not modify, translate, sublicense, rent or lease any portion of the Software or accompanying documentation.  You may not create any derivative works from the Software.  You may not use or transfer a previous version of the Software after you have received a media replacement or an upgraded version as a replacement to a prior version.

Term. This license is effective from your date of purchase and will remain in force until terminated.  You may terminate this License agreement at any time by destroying all copies of the Software in any form and accompanying documentation.

V Communications Limited Warranty

V Communications, Inc. warrants to the original purchaser that the media on which the program is furnished to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use, and warrants that the Software conforms substantially to any V Communications’ advertised claims at the date of sale. This limited warranty extends from sixty (60) days from the date of purchase as evidenced by a copy of your receipt.

This warranty does not apply to any Software that has been altered, abused, damaged, mis-applied, or used other than in accordance with this license and any instructions included in the Software and accompanying documentation. V Communications does not warrant that the Software will meet your requirements or that operation of the Software will be uninterrupted or that the Software will be error-free.

In the event of notification within the warranty period of failure to meet any V Communications’ advertised claims at the date of sale, you may return the program and all associated manuals in good condition to your place of purchase for a refund.  If you need to exchange or return a product purchased directly from V Communications, call our customer service department to obtain a return authorization number.

To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, V Communications and its suppliers disclaim all other warranties, either express or implied, including, but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement with regard to the Software. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may have other rights, which vary in different jurisdictions.

Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, in no event shall V Communications or its suppliers be liable for any special, incidental, indirect or consequential damages whatsoever (including, without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, loss of business or personal information, or any other monetary loss) arising out of the use of or the inability to use the Software, even if V Communications has been advised of the possibility of damages. Because some states and jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damages, the above limitation may not apply to you.  In no event shall V Communications liability exceed the purchase price for the Software. The disclaimers and limitations set forth above will apply regardless of whether you accept the Software.

Complete Agreement

Having read this Agreement, you agree that no contrary or inconsistent statement, oral or written, has been made by any person and that this is the complete and exclusive statement of the terms and conditions of the Agreement between us, and any prior proposal or statement, whether written or oral, is superseded.  In the event of any dispute regarding the terms and conditions of this Agreement, you agree that the laws of the State of California will govern the interpretation of the Agreement.

U.S. Government Restricted Rights Legend

The SOFTWARE and documentation are provided with RESTRICTED RIGHTS.  Use, duplication, or disclosure by the Government are subject to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c) (1) (ii) of the Rights in Technical Data and Computer Software clause at DFARS 252.227-7013 or subparagraphs (c)(1) and (2) of the Commercial Computer Software-Restricted Rights at 48 CFR 52.277-19, as applicable, V Communications, Inc. 2290 North First St., Suite 101, San Jose, CA 95131.


Contact Information

Please refer to the top of the registration card for contact information and current technical support services. When sending a fax or e-mail, please be sure to include the product name (AutoSave), version, serial number, and a brief description of the problem you are encountering.  Additional contact information can be found on our Web site at www.v-com.com


Limitations

We are unaware of any compatibility issues with other programs.  AutoSave works fine with Anti-Virus software, disk compression, disk managers, and other backup products.

To dramatically save disk space, AutoSave only backs up your work files.  The typical installation covers all work files of most users, such as documents, letters, memos, email, spreadsheets and much more.  To reduce the disk space needed for backups, the typical installation will not backup new or changed video clips, graphic images or sound files. If you create these type files, and wish AutoSave to save them, you can use the Setup Wizard Custom Configuration.


AutoSave Backups

With AutoSave installed and running, you will now have protected your most valuable information on your PC, your work files.  As you work, whenever you save an item you are working on, a copy is also saved to the backup archive.

To increase your safety, we recommend periodically saving any open working items. For example, if you are editing a manuscript, you might select Save every 20 minutes of work time or so.  This reduces the chance that you have significant work in the computer’s memory, but not yet saved to the disk.  Should power fail or other critical event occur, remember that your work in the computer’s memory is lost.  Only the information saved to the disk is retained.

As soon as you select Save, a copy is transferred from memory to the hard disk.  Shortly thereafter, a second copy is made automatically by AutoSave to protect you against loss of the primary copy of your work file.


Full Backups

AutoSave does not perform a full backup, if you use special backup hardware and software, we strongly recommend you continue to perform a full backup on a periodic basis.  A full backup may save you time should your hard disk fail, or a large amount of disk data is corrupted.

AutoSave can be commanded to perform a full backup by using the Backup Wizard.  Keep in mind that most users do not have enough alternate disk space to store a complete backup, so this method may not be appropriate for you.

For users who do not perform a full backup, you can still recover from catastrophic loss, by re-installing your operating system and applications from the original install media (CD-ROMs and diskettes).

In either case, once the system is functioning again with your applications, AutoSave is used to restore your critical work files.  Restore Wizard is an easiest, most effective way to do complete this process.


Installation Requirements

You must have Windows 95/98/NT installed and running.  Please see the package for specific memory and disk space requirements.


Backup Wizard

Use the Backup Wizard any time you wish to:

•	Backup all of your existing work files

•	Backup all files on your local drives

•	Backup a Customized Group files

To run the Backup Wizard, click on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] and select Backup Wizard.  Select the type of backup you wish to make.


Restore Wizard

Use the restore Wizard any time you wish to:

•	Restore One or More Individual Files

•	Restore an Older Version of a File

•	Restore All Backup Files

•	Restoring From a Total Loss of  Data

To run the Restore Wizard, click on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] and select Restore Wizard.  Select the type of restoration you wish to make.


Setup Wizard

Setup Wizard is used to change the settings AutoSave uses when it backups up your work files.

The Setup Wizard is always run as part of the installation.   Setup Wizard can be used anytime you wish to change the settings for AutoSave.  You can specify where you want your backup archive saved.  Other custom options such as special file exclusions, inclusions and number of revisions can also be set.

To run Setup Wizard, start by clicking on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] and selecting Setup Wizard from Selection Wizard menu.  If you are already in the AutoSave application window then Setup Wizard can be started by selecting it from the menu bar under File.

Setup Wizard allows you to choose either Typical Configuration or Custom Configuration.


Backup Location

You can specify where you wish your files to be backed up. Our recommendation of where to store your backups is dependent on what devices are connected to your system.  Typical Configuration uses the following selection order:

1.	Network drive

2.	Local Removable media drive (Jaz, Zip, LS120, etc.)

3.	Local non-primary hard drive

4.	Primary hard drive, non C: partition

5.	Primary hard drive (C:)

NOTE: If you choose the primary (i.e. first) hard drive, AutoSave can help save your work files from deletion and other destructive acts, but cannot protect against drive failure or major damage to the drive partition. Clearly, a backup on this drive is much better than no backup at all, but there can be events, such as a crashed hard drive that will make even the backup data unrecoverable.

When selecting a backup location it is good to keep in mind the following points.  You must have “rights” to write to the backup location.  Plan a location with the future in mind; make sure it has adequate storage space


Include List

AutoSave selects the files it will backup based on processing several lists of file types to include or/and exclude.  The Include List is a list of files that AutoSave should consider while doing this processing.  Please see “Understanding Include/Excludes”.

You can review the current includes from this dialog.  You can also select the files and/or directories you wish to include.  Use the “Launch Explorer” button to find a specific file and/or directory and drag and drop the selection into the open Include List.


Exclude List

AutoSave selects the files it will backup based on processing several lists of file types to include or/and exclude.  The Exclude List is a list of files that AutoSave should consider while doing this processing.  Please see “Understanding Include/Excludes”.

You can review the current excludes from this dialog.  You can also select the files and/or directories you wish to exclude.  Use the “Launch Explorer” button to find a specific file and/or directory and drag and drop the selection into the open Exclude List.


Options

Use the options to customize AutoSave’s operation. The major options include:

•	Number of versions of each file to save

•	Use of compression or not

•	Limits to the archive disk space

•	Advanced options to control timing and other features


Understanding Include/Excludes

How AutoSave Uses the Include/Exclude Lists

AutoSave works by first looking for a full file name (without wildcards like * and ?) in the Include List. If found, the file is saved.  If the file does not appear on the include list, it next looks at the Exclude List.  If it appears on this list, the file is not saved.  If not excluded, the Include List is reviewed for any wildcard entries (like *.*), and those files are saved.

For example, the Include/Exclude Lists could have the following entries:

Includes	Excludes
CONFIG.SYS	*.COM
*.*	*.EXE
	*.HLP
	*.SYS

This example will save the CONFIG.SYS file and all other data files except for those having an extension of EXE, COM, SYS or HLP.  Note how we were able to save a specific file, CONFIG.SYS, and exclude all other .SYS files.

The Default Include and Exclude Lists have been pre-set by AutoSave to save your work files, but exclude programs, help and other special data files such as video, sound, graphics, and cache files, that are not usually work files.

Both the Include and Exclude file lists can be easily modified, or reset to the AutoSave default choices.  Exclude defaults also let you easily control selective groups of files.  For example, if you wish to have AutoSave backup special drawing files from applications like Corel Draw or Adobe Illustrator, go to the Exclude Files tab, select Default extensions, and uncheck the “Drawings” group.  Click on Ok, and all of the special drawing file extensions will be removed from the exclude list.

How AutoSave Uses Wildcards

A wildcard character appears as an asterisk “*” in part of a filename or directory to represent any number of characters, including no characters.  A question mark “?” is used to represent a single character. Below are a number of examples to help make this clear:

Example	File names that will match
*.doc	Foo.doc, a.doc, Long Document.doc
test*.txt	test02.txt, test.txt, testing one two three.txt
info?.hlp	info1.hlp, infoA.hlp

An excluded or included filename will be compared with a file being saved in a case-insensitive method.  This means that the files “ABC123.DOC” and “aBc123.doc” both match an exclude name”ABC*.DOC”.

Depending on where the wildcard appears, it may include a limited directory and/or drive, or it can indicate every directory and drive.  Remember that AutoSave always excludes backups of removable media, so these locations do not need any special exclusions. A quick example table will help clarify the rules used:

Example	What It Means
*.doc	Any file on any drive that ends in “doc”
c:\z\*.doc	Only files that end in “doc” and reside in the “z” directory of the C drive
*\y*.doc	Any file that match “y*.doc” in any drive or directory
*\*\y*.doc	Any file that matches “y*.doc” in subdirectories, but not in the root directory, any drive
*\xyz\*	All files and subdirectories in the xyz directory on any drive


Modes of Operation

AutoSave has five modes of operation, Idle, Active, Logging, Suspended and Stopped.

Idle – This is the most common mode, where AutoSave  monitoring to see if any files need to be backed up.  No files are currently being backed up (physically written or prepared) in this state.

Active – AutoSave has one or more files in the queue to backup and may be saving (writing) those files to the backup location.

Logging – In the event that the backup location is unavailable, AutoSave will save the names of any files that will need to be backed up, once the backup location is available.  Several examples of logging mode are when the backup location is on a network or removable media, and the network connection is down or there is no media in the removable media drive.

Suspend –Any files already in the queue to be backed up will be backed up, but no new or changed files will be backed up in suspend mode.

Stopped – No files are being backed up or logged.

A status indicator icon [image] appears in the system tray (typically near the time).  The color and shape of the disk drive indicates the current status as follows:

Icon	Color	State
	Gray	Idle – No files to backup
	Green	Active – files being backed up
	Purple	Logging – log backups for future
	Yellow	Suspend – no new backups
	Red	Stopped – no backups

To resume from Logging, Stopped, or Suspend modes select Resume by clicking on File in the main AutoSave window or by right-clicking on the AutoSave icon [image] in the system tray choosing Resume.


Wizard Control Menu

When you left click on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] the Wizard Control Menu appears as shown below.

You may select any one of the Wizards to go directly to that Operation.  Details on the Backup Wizard, Restore Wizard, Setup Wizard, and Current Activity operations can be viewed by selecting that topic.


Current Activity Display

The current activity window shows the present status of AutoSave.  It also introduces main AutoSave application window.  Here you can view summary and error reports, perform special backups and restores, and explore the files that are already backed up.

A sample Current Activity Display is shown below:

This screen shows file information, date and time, number of versions in the archive, size, compression indicator and the state of the file.  The following states can appear in this window:

Backed up – A file that has been copied into the archive within the last hour.  After an hour, backed up files are cleared from the activity report.

Pending backup – A file is in use or opened, and unable to be backed up yet.

Not backed up yet – The file is now ready to be backed up. A time counter starts when the file was closed and saved. After the timeout period (typically one minute) elapses, the file will be backed up.

Original deleted – The original file was deleted before a backup could be made.  This usually occurs with non-standard temporary files that do not need to be backed up.

Corrupt – As backup operations progress, the DATABASE.DAT is periodically validated. If these validations determine irregularities about files that have been backed up, then the files in the archive are marked as corrupt.  This indicates the backed up file (archive) is corrupt, NOT the original.  There may be several reasons for this.  The archived file could be corrupt, or the original file may have been changed or replaced in such a way that AutoSave could not back it up.  An apparent mismatch would then occur.  AutoSave presumes the original to be correct in this situation and labels the archive corrupt when in fact be fine it may be fine.  If  “Corrupt” files are needed, then it is recommended they be restored to an alternate location for a determination to be made.

Tips:

To clear lines on the activity report that are “Backed Up”, under Windows on the menu bar, select Refresh.

To force an immediate backup of any “Not backed up yet” entries, under Backup on the menu bar, select All Pending Files.

To remove all entries from the current activity report, under View on the menu bar, select Clear all activity.

Caution:

 Using Clear all activity removes all pending backup files and those not yet backed up from current activity.  This also means these files will NOT be backed up.


Close and/or Exit

When you close (or click on the “X” close button) AutoSave’s status screen will disappear, but AutoSave remains active in the background.

You can override AutoSave’s normal operation with selections under the File option (see the Current Activity Display). Choices are available to Suspend, Stop, or Resume, depending on the current state.

If you wish to shutdown AutoSave completely, at the AutoSave system tray icon [image] right-click.  On the menu select Exit.  AutoSave will become inactive, and the AutoSave system tray icon will disappear.  Upon the next boot cycle, AutoSave will resume normal operation.


Laptop Logging Mode

Laptops are often switched between an on-the-road and desktop configuration.  This can mean a network or removable media device may be available for back purposes only part of the time.

If the archive location is temporarily unavailable, AutoSave will detect this situation and warn you.  You can then chose to have AutoSave stop all operations, or preferably, log all files that change. When the archive is available again on the next boot cycle (i.e. the network or removable media device is attached), backups are made of all the logged files.

Keep in mind that logging mode cannot save any backups while the archive is unavailable.  This also means that only the last version of a file will be added to the version archive once the logged file is saved.  Prior versions already in the archive will still be available.


Removing Files from the Backup Archive

To remove a single file or group of files from the backup archive, highlight the items in either the Current Activity window or the Backed Up Files view.  Then press Del.  After a confirmation, the files will be removed from the archive.

If you have a limited amount of space for backups, it can run out of room as you create or expand your work files. Should this occur, a dialog box appears and explains the various actions you can take. These actions include:

•	Allocate more space for the backup archive

•	Change the maximum size limit in AutoSave

•	Remove all files in the backup archive that no longer have an original (files you previously deleted)

•	Remove old versions of files in the archive

Allocate more space for the backup archive

If your backup archive is on a network, your network administrator may have a set limit on the amount of space you are allowed. See if the administrator can increase your space allocation.

If your backup archive is on a local hard drive, you may need to consider a larger drive, or remove other unneeded files that reside on the same drive.

Change the maximum size limit

AutoSave has a built in archive size limit that it will not exceed.  You can change this limit by clicking on the AutoSave System tray icon [image], and from the Wizard Control menu, select Setup Wizard.  select Custom, and then click on the Options tab.  Change the archive size limit to a higher or lower number.  Finish the Setup Wizard, and the changes will take effect immediately.

Remove all files in the backup archive that do not have an original

Over time, there will often be files that reside in the backup archive, which no longer have a corresponding original file.  This occurs when you delete or rename a work file.  AutoSave retains a backup copy in case you later wish to restore the file.

One way to make additional space is to remove all the files in the archive that no longer have a related original file. Be aware, once this is done, you cannot restore one of these “deleted” files.

To perform this operation, click on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] and from the Wizard Control menu click on Current Activity. On the menu bar, select Backup, then select Delete, If original deleted.

Remove old versions of files in the archive

Normally, AutoSave will save multiple versions of your work files. To make more backup space, if you wish, you can have AutoSave remove all older versions of files, and keep only the most recent version.

To remove old versions, click on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] and from the Wizard Control menu click on Current Activity. On the menu bar, select Backup, then select Delete, old versions.


Using AutoSave

AutoSave’s primary feature is its transparent hassle-free operation.  The next sections explain how to view what is going on, how to see the files that are already backed up, and how to change additional backup options.  Many of these features may not be encountered as they are unnecessary for normal day to day operation.

Please select a topic for more detailed information.

•	Menu Commands

•	Modes of Operation

•	Wizard Control Menu

•	Current Activity Display

•	Close and/or Exit AutoSave

•	Removing Files from the Backup Archive


Advanced Topics

Several special options for the corporate administrator and issues with Anti-virus products can be viewed below by selecting the link.

•	Automating the restoration process after a hard drive image restore

•	Pre-set a network drive and directory for the backup archive

•	After Anti-virus products remove an infection


Automatic Restoration

When an image of a disk drive is made, if the image includes AutoSave, you can simplify the restoration process of the AutoSave archive. Some imaging software products offer the ability to run a batch file at the completion of disk image restoration.  To automate the Restore Wizard process two command line options are provided to make this very easy:

autosave  [/Restore]  [/drive:\path to restore to]

The first option, Restore, instructs AutoSave to restore all of the latest files in the archive.  The default operation will use the archive location as specified in the AUTOSAVE.INI.  The second command line option overrides the restore location and specifies where the backup archive is to be restored to.  This option is not required if you do not wish to override the location of the original files.

autosave  /Restore  /d:\data\JohnX


Backup Archive Location, Pre-set and Auto Setup

In some large installations, an image of the system might be prepared that has AutoSave installed.  Normally this would cause a conflict if each system were pointed to the same path on the network. There are two ways to solve this issue.

Method 1: Unique INI files

AutoSave stores key start information in its own INI file, separate from the registry.  After an image is restored to a system, the system administrator could replace the imaged AUTOSAVE.INI file with an INI file setup for this user.

Method 2: Special registry entry

If the image has no AUTOSAVE.INI file (i.e. you deleted this file prior saving the image), when the new imaged disk first starts up, AutoSave will detect the missing INI file, and look for a special registry key. If the key is found, the related path is used to store the backup and no questions are asked of the user.  All defaults are set automatically by the Setup Wizard.

The registry key is located at:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE
SOFTWARE
V Communications
AutoSave

Set the name to “FirstTimePath” and the data to be a fully qualified drive and path for the backup storage.  For example:

Name	Data
FirstTimePath	N:\backup\JohnS


After Anti-Virus Products Remove an Infection

There are several issues relating to the removal of a virus by anti-virus products.

Issue 1: Cleaning up any backed-up files

Be aware it is possible that an infected file has been saved into the archive and has not been un-infected.  This is especially true when compression is used (the default), since the anti-virus software will not see the expanded true file.

Since executable programs are not stored by AutoSave, viruses that infect these programs will not reside in the archive.  Macro type viruses that reside inside a document or spreadsheet file could have been saved to the archive. If you are concerned about these files, you could delete the specific infected files in the archive, or open the file in your application and save it again.

Issue 2: AutoSave may be disabled

After a ‘cleaning’ some anti-virus products will temporarily disconnect AutoSave.  AutoSave will be restored on the next boot cycle.  If an Anti-Virus program removes a resident memory virus it may interfere with AutoSave being able to detect file operations.  If may appear that AutoSave is running.  If you suspect interference check the Current Activity to determine if files that are being accessed are being backed up. If not, then you will need to restart Windows.


How do I recover and older version of a file?

Click on the AutoSave icon [image] in the system tray.  From the Wizard Control menu, select Restore Wizard.  In the Restore Wizard dialog, select “restore one file”.  You can then navigate to the file you wish to restore.  From the AutoSave application tool bar, select Restore and then Restore old version. Specify which version to restore.


Can I recover a work file that I deleted?

Yes!  When you delete a file, the backup(s) copy is left in place in the backup archive.  Use the Restore Wizard to restore the file


What happens if the backup location runs out of space?

If this event occurs, you will be notified.  You can then free up additional space by removing any older versions of files from the backup archive that you no longer need.  You may also elect to remove saved copies of files that have since been deleted.


Why should I bother with a full backup if I have AutoSave?

AutoSave saves your work files, the most valuable and difficult to re-create files you have. These represent your own personal hard work.  AutoSave does not save your OS and application files, which usually take up the bulk of your hard disk space.  This allows AutoSave to work transparently in the background and use dramatically less space than a full backup would require.

A full backup is still valuable, and can save you time getting your system running again should a major problem occur, such as a failure of the primary hard disk.  If you do not have a full backup, it would be necessary to re-install your Windows OS again, and any applications you use.  AutoSave’s restore Wizard can then be used to recover all the files that changed since your last full backup.  This often represents days or even months of work that will not be on the full backup.


How do I see what AutoSave is doing?

The AutoSave icon in the System tray will change color.  The color indicates the Mode of Operation of AutoSave.  You can click on the icon and select Current Activity from the Wizard Control menu.  The Current Activity Display shows the status of AutoSave backup operations.


What happens if I rename a file or directory?

AutoSave retains the original file and directory in the archive, but as changes are made to a file, or new files are added to the directory, AutoSave will use the new filename and/or directory.  What this means is the older saved versions of that file will remain under the original name.

If desired, you can move and rename a file or directory in the archive.  To do this, first click on the AutoSave icon [image] in the System tray. From the Wizard Control menu, select Current Activity. Next, on the menu bar, select View, then select Reports, next select Backed-up files.  A list of all your backed up files will appear.  Highlight the file you wish to rename or move. On the menu bar, select Backup, then select Move or rename.


Common Terminology

Here are a few common words you may find helpful while using AutoSave Help.

Archive – The area where files are saved for backup purposes. It can be on a network drive, a local drive, or removable media.

Backup – The process of saving files to the archive location.

Compression – When files are copied to the archive, the files are compressed, if possible to save space. Compression looks for duplications that can be temporarily removed. When a compressed file is restored, the file is decompressed in a way that makes it identical to the original file saved. This feature can be turned off if desired.

Exclude List – The Exclude list records those files and extensions that AutoSave has been instructed not to save.  Also see “Include”.

Full backup – This process saves every file on your system to special hardware, such as a tape device. AutoSave does not perform full backups, and avoids the need for special hardware by only saving your most valuable files, those that you create and modify.

Include List – A list of files and extensions that AutoSave will save to the archive, so long as they do not appear in the exclude list.

Restore – The process where one or more files are copied from the archive back to the original file location.

Version – Each time you save a modified file, it is saved to the archive without destroying the prior saved copy of the file.  Each new save creates a “version” of the file.  Typically, AutoSave saves up to five versions of a file, after which the oldest version is erased to make room for a new version.  Setup Wizard is used to change the number of versions of files saved by AutoSave.


Backup All Existing Work Files

Run the Backup Wizard by clicking on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] and selecting Backup Wizard.  Next select Save existing work files from your local hard drives.

This selection is used to backup all of the existing work files located on your local drives to the backup archive. This option uses all of the current include and exclude file options to locate and save your work files.  Before starting the backup, the Backup Wizard will scan the drives and display how much space the backup will require.


Backup All Files on Your Local Drive(s)

Run the Backup Wizard by clicking on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] and selecting Backup Wizard.  Next select Save all files from your local hard drives.

This selection used to backup all files on your local hard drive(s) to the backup archive.  This may require a significant amount of available space on the archive drive. The Backup Wizard will scan your local drives and report the amount of space required, and the space available.

Note:

This option overrides your include and exclude settings, and will backup your operating system, programs, and work files. It will not archive your active Windows registry files, but will save only the backup set.  This prevents possible system corruption upon a restore operation.


Backup a Customized Group of Files

Run the Backup Wizard by clicking on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] and selecting Backup Wizard.  Next select Specify a custom group of files.

Use this option to create a custom list of drives, directories and files for the backup.

On the custom selection dialog, you can manually add drives, directories or files to the location list, or select the quick buttons to insert all local or network drives.

The option “Ignore include/exclude lists” is used when you want to backup all files from the selected devices.  Even with this option on, Backup Wizard will not backup files stored in its own backup directory, nor will it backup the current Windows registry. This is done to protect the Windows environment.

Keep in mind you may not have enough storage to back up all of your selections.  Backup Wizard will scan your drive to inform you of the total space requirements.  If you are using compression, the compressed value is an estimate and will vary somewhat, depending on file contents of the files being saved.


Restoring One or More Individual Files

To restore one or more files first run the Restore Wizard by clicking on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] and selecting Restore Wizard.  At the Restore Wizard, choose “Select specific drives, directories and/or files”.

A drive and directory tree will appear showing all of the files in the backup archive. To view sub-directories and files, click on the plus mark to expand the tree view. To see the files in the right side, click on the drive or folder icon.

To mark a drive, directory or file to be restored, click on the related box (a check-mark appears).  When all of your selections have been made, click on Next.

The next dialog will prompt for where to restore.  You can restore the files to the original location, or specify a new drive and directory.

If any selected files have more than one version, you will be prompted if you want only the latest version or if you want to select which version to restore. If you choose to select which version, you will be prompted for each file selected that has more than one version.


Restoring an Older Version of a File

To restore one or more files first run the Restore Wizard by clicking on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] and selecting Restore Wizard.  At the Restore Wizard, choose “Select specific drives, directories and/or files”.

A drive and directory tree will appear showing all of the files in the backup archive. To view sub-directories and files, click on the plus mark to expand the tree view. To see the files in the right side, click on the drive or folder icon.

To mark a drive, directory or file to be restored, click on the related box (a check-mark appears).  When all of your selections have been made, click on Next.

The next dialog will prompt for where to restore.  You can restore the files to the original location, or specify a new drive and directory.

If any selected files have more than one version, you will be prompted if you want only the latest version or if you want to select which version to restore. If you choose to select which version, you will be prompted for each file selected that has more than one version.


Restoring From a Total Loss of Data

The first and most important step is to determine absolutely that the data is not recoverable. For example, if a virus caused the data loss, some anti-virus software may be able to undo the damage and restore your system to a fully working state.  It may also be a situation where a hard disk card or cable has failed and all of the data on the hard disk is still valid.  You may need to consult with your computer technician to correct these types of problems. If the hard disk has stopped functioning it will be necessary to replace the drive before proceeding.

Once you have concluded all the data is truly lost or damaged to an extent that you wish to start over, you can begin to rebuild your system.  Proceed to either the next section if you have a separate full backup product, or to the following section if you are only using AutoSave (no other backup).

Restoring from an alternate full backup

If you are using another backup product, such as one using a tape drive, follow the software/hardware manufacturer’s instructions to restore the state of the system from your latest valid full backup.

Important:

AutoSave needs to be disabled when restoring files from another backup. Otherwise, AutoSave will attempt to re-save these newly restored files in the archive, and you may run out of disk space!  If the AutoSave icon does not appear in the system tray, then AutoSave is disabled.  If you see the icon [image], right click on it, and select Stop.

At this point you are ready to restore all the files backed up by AutoSave. If you just restored files from an older full backup, this step will recover all the work files not saved since your last backup. For those users starting over, the Restore Wizard will recover your saved backup files. Go to the section, Restoring All Backup Files for details on using the Restore Wizard to do this

When no full backup exists

If you do not have a full backup, it will be necessary to first re-install your operating system and each application you use from the original installation media.

Important:

We cannot assist you with recovery at this stage.  If you are having difficulties with your OS or application installations, you will need to contact the associated vendor or your computer manufacturer.

Once your system is booting properly and your OS and applications are working, check if AutoSave is running by looking for the system tray [image] icon.   If this does not appear, you may need to install AutoSave again.  Follow the instructions in Chapter 2, installation, and return here once the installation is complete and AutoSave is running.  Make sure you set the backup location to the drive and directory where the backup archive is stored.

Warning:

If a drive failure or complete data erasure occurs on the same device that AutoSave stores your backup, you will not be able to recover your backup data.  We always recommend that backup data not be stored on your first hard disk to avoid this situation, and will always warn you during the AutoSave installation if you are at risk from this type of data loss.

At this point you are ready to restore all the saved backup files. The Restore Wizard will recover your saved backup files.  Please refer to the Restoring All Backup Files section for details on how to do this.


Restoring All Backup Files

To restore all backup files first run the Restore Wizard by clicking on the AutoSave system tray icon [image] and selecting Restore Wizard.  At the Restore Wizard, choose “All files”.   You will then have the option to restore to the original drive and directory locations, or you can specify a different drive and/or directory location.  In most situations, you should select to restore to the original drive and directory locations.

When restoring all files, AutoSave will restore the most recent version of each of the files saved in the backup archive.


Removing AutoSave

AutoSave can be temporarily removed as a potential source of problems by right clicking on the AutoSave icon [image] in the System tray. Then select Exit.  AutoSave will be halted until the next time the system is restarted.

To completely remove AutoSave, select Start, then Programs, AutoSave, and select Uninstall. AutoSave will be turned off, and all of its program files will be removed.

Uninstall does not remove the files that have been stored in the backup archive. If you no longer wish to keep these files, you can remove this directory and all contents using Explorer.


Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting is intended to give you answers to some of the most common problems that might arise. If you do not see your problem detailed in this chapter, check  our Web site at www.v-com.com.


No AutoSave Icon in the System Tray

This indicates that AutoSave is not running and may not be installed. If you earlier selected Exit from the right click of the AutoSave system tray icon, when you next restart Windows, AutoSave will automatically activate.

If AutoSave is not installed, then it will be necessary to re-install it from the CD-ROM.  Please see Quick Installation for instructions.


Setup Wizard Finish

The Finish screen is displayed at the end of Custom Configuration.  It displays several key setup selections as a confirmation.  An example is show below.


Backup Wizard Scan Finished

When the Backup Wizard has finished scanning the drives, directories, and files, you will be asked to confirm that you wish to begin the backup process of these files.   Select Finish to make a backup or select Cancel to abort the backup process.  An example finish screen with several located files, ready to start the backup process is shown below.


Back Wizard File Selection

You may select a custom group of files, directories, or drives to backup.  The file/drive selection screen allows you to add and remove items from the list of locations to be scanned.  You may also select to have the scanned entries processed using the Include List and Exclude List. An example is shown below.


Backup Wizard Scan Results

The results of the backup Wizard scan are present in this window.  You may continue to have the files backed up or you may go back and change the Backup Wizard File Selection criteria, such as using the Includes or Excludes.


Backup Wizard File Scan

The Backup Wizard File Scan screen displays the status of the currently scanned drives, directories and files.  It may be Stopped/Started at any time.  You may also cancel the scan entirely and start over by using the Back button.  This screen may appear only momentarily if the file scan only takes a very short time to process.  An in process file scan is shown below.


File Properties

To see the properties for a file, first click on the AutoSave icon [image] in the System tray. From the Wizard Control menu, select Current Activity.  Next, on the menu bar, select View, then select File Properties,. The File Properties window shows the details of the selected file.  It displays the time and date of each backup version.   Select the version number (0 is most recent) to see the details for that version.  You may also select Actions have other operations performed on the selected version.


Backup Storage Properties

To see the properties for a backup archive, first click on the AutoSave icon [image] in the System tray. From the Wizard  Control menu, select Current Activity.  Next, on the menu bar, select View, then select Reports, and finally select Summary. The Backup Storage Properties  window shows the size and location details of backup archive.  You may  select Setup Wizard if you wish to modify the backup archive settings.


Unavailable Media

AutoSave attempted to access the Backup Archive and the location was unavailable.  The most frequent reasons are that a network or removable media device is not currently available for back purposes.   You need to choose one of the four options I order for AutoSave to continue.

•	Try Again – Choosing try again will tell AutoSave to attempt the access again.  This is useful if you need to replace the removable media cartridge (i.e. Jaz, Zip).

•	New – Choosing new allows you to select a new or alternate backup archive location.

•	Log – Choosing log will activate Logging Mode.  Only the last version will be saved when you reconnect to the backup archive.

•	Stop- Choosing stop discontinues any further backup operation until you either select Resume or restart Windows.  Choosing stop also shuts off logging.

Further information about these choices can be found in Modes of Operation.


Moving or Renaming a File or Directory

AutoSave retains the original file and directory in the archive, but as changes are made to a file, or new files are added to the directory, AutoSave will use the new filename and/or directory.  What this means is the older saved versions of that file will remain under the original name.

If desired, you can move and rename a file or directory in the archive.  To do this, first click on the AutoSave icon [image] in the System tray. From the Popup Wizard menu, select Current Activity. Next, on the menu bar, select View, then select Reports, next select Backed-up files.  A list of all your backed up files will appear.  Highlight the file you wish to rename or move. On the menu bar, select Backup, then select Move or rename.

You are shown the original name and need enter the new name.  You may also try Similar name search to help locate the new name.


Restore Wizard Finish

When the Restore Wizard is ready to begin writing files to the restore location it will display the finish screen.  You may select Finish to start the operation or Cancel to abort restoring any files.


Restore Wizard Select Version

You may select the version of the file you wish to restore.   Lower numbered versions of the file are newer.  The time and date may also be helpful when selecting the version to restore.


Restore Wizard Restore Location

Once you have selected which files you wish to restore, the Restore Wizard will allow you to choose the destination of the restore operation.  Most often this is the original location.  In some cases it may be desirable to restore to an alternate location.  If this is the case just check the box for “No, specify a new location”.  You may “Browse” or enter the location directly.


Restore Wizard File Selection

You may select drives, directories, and files to restore.  The selection screen allows you to add and remove these items from the list to be restored. Simply check or uncheck the item to include or exclude it.

Hint:

Checking a drive or directory automatically checks all sub-directories.


Restore Wizard Restore Latest Version

If a file has more than one version Restore Wizard will prompt you asking whether you wish to restore the latest version or if you wish to select an alternate version.   If you choose to select alternate you will be able to choose amongst the stored version.  The date and time of each version will be shown.


Yes/YesToAll/No/NoToAll

These four options allow you to respond to each individual question or to have the subsequent selections automatically answered for you.

•	Yes-Answer the current question, Yes, but allow choices later.

•	YesToAll-Answer the current question, Yes, and automatically answer all following selections Yes.

•	No- Answer the current question, No, but allow choices later.

•	NoToAll-Answer the current question, No, and automatically answer all following selections No.


Using Backup Wizard to Create a full Backup

You can use Backup Wizard now to create a full backup of your local drives, work files, or a custom group of files.  If you do not wish to do this now, you can select Continue and do this at a later time.


Automatic Setup Detection

AutoSave can automatically detect when a Setup program is started.  In most instances it is desirable to Suspend AutoSave while you install new application programs.  Most users do not wish to backup application files because of the space required.  Typically applications can be easily reinstalled from the original media. Once the application installation is completed you should Resume AutoSave operations either by restarting Windows or by right- clicking on the AutoSave icon [image] in the system tray and selecting Resume.


Menu Commands

The menu bar in the main window of the AutoSave application contains six pull-down menus.  Each of these pull-down menu contains selections related to the menu title.   Below is an example of the main AutoSave application window.  Click on the pull-down menu to learn more about each of the selections.


File Options


View Options


Backup Options


Restore Options


Window Options


Help Options


Save As

The selected file can be saved under a different name on command.  This selection is not permanent, it is used only at the time it is selected.


Print

The AutoSave print function is used to print the information that is highlighted on the screen or to print the selected report.


Print Setup

Print Setup can be used to change the printer settings.  Settings vary from printer to printer. See your printer manual for more information.


Suspend

You may place AutoSave in the Suspend state at any time.  To set the Suspend state, click on File in the main AutoSave window or right-click on the AutoSave icon [image] in the system tray and choose Suspend.

Suspend first backs up any files already in the queue to be backed up.  No new or changed files will be backed up while AutoSave is in the Suspend state.  See also Modes of Operation.


Logging

You may place AutoSave in the Logging only state at any time.  To set the Logging only state, click on File in the main AutoSave window or right-click on the AutoSave icon [image] in the system tray choose Logging only.

Logging is used in the event that the backup location is unavailable, AutoSave will save the names of any files that will need to be backed up, once the backup location is available.  Several examples of logging mode are when the backup location is on a network or removable media, and the network connection is down or there is no media in the removable media drive.  See also Modes of Operation .


Stop

You may place AutoSave in the Stopped state at any time.  To set the Stopped state, click on File in the main AutoSave window or right-click on the AutoSave icon [image] in the system tray choosing Stop.

Stop is used to halt backing up and logging of files.  See also Modes of Operation .


Resume

Resume is used to exit the Logging, Stopped, or Suspend modes.  To resume from Logging, Stopped, or Suspend modes select Resume by clicking on File in the main AutoSave window or by right-clicking on the AutoSave icon [image] in the system tray choosing Resume.  See also Modes of Operation.


Close

Close is used to close the main AutoSave window.  When you close AutoSave’s status screen will disappear, but AutoSave remains active in the background.  See also Close and/or Exit.


Help Contents

This selection will display the main AutoSave Help window.


About AutoSave

This selection displays copyright, version and serial number information about the AutoSave program.


Window Arrangement

These selections are used to choose how you would like to have the Current Activity, Backed up files and Exceptions windows arranged inside the main AutoSave application window.


Refresh

The content of the selected window will be updated to reflect the most current information.  When used in the Current Activity window, this is a convenient way to clear away files that have already been backed up.


Selected Window

If the Current Activity, Backed up files or Exceptions windows are open they will appear on this menu.  Choosing one of these selections, makes the window active and brings it to the foreground.


Restore selected

The latest version of the selected file(s) will be restore.  A confirmation question will be issued.  You may select the files in either the Current activity window or the Backed up files window.


Restore old version

This choice is available only when a single file is selected.  A choice of saved version will be offer followed by a confirmation question.  You may select the file in either the Current activity window or the Backed up files window.


Reports


Open original

This command will attempt to open the original version of the file using the associated windows application.  If there is no associated application windows will prompt for you for one.


Similar name search

Similar name search is typically used to help identify the location of a file that may have been renamed/moved during the span of its existence.   Select the file of interest from either the Current activity window or Backed up files window, then select Similar name search.  The search results are then displayed in a window.


View settings

These selections are used to turn on and off the Tool Bar, Status bar and Expanded view.  The Tool Bar appears just below the Menu Bar in the main AutoSave application window.  The Status Bar appears at the bottom of the application window.  Expanded view is for use in the Backed up files window only.  It will expand/collapse the view to show all files in a planar view or in a hierarchical directory view.


Clear all activity

The Clear all activity is used to remove files from the Current activity window.   Using Clear all activity removes the files from the queue of files to be backed.  If the state of the file is, Not backed up yet, then no backup will be made until the next time the file is queued in response to a change.


Select all

Choosing Select all will highlight all files or directories in the active window.  This is an easy way to select many files to back up or restore. You may also use the standard windows selection keys Alt and Shift to add or delete from the selected group or to select all files between two end points.


Wizard menu on/off

This selection turns the Wizard Control Menu on or off.   When set to on, the popup menu will appear each time you double click on the AutoSave icon [image] in the system tray.  When set to off, AutoSave proceeds directly to the main AutoSave application window.  See also Wizard Control menu .


Backed up files

Selecting this option opens the Backed up files window.  The Backed up files window shows all of the files in the Backup Archive.  The Backed up files window can be viewed in Expanded view of normally.  Expanded view will expand/collapse the view to show all files in a planar view or in a hierarchical directory view.


Exceptions

The Exceptions selection opens the Exceptions window.  This window displays problem that have occurred while AutoSave was operating.   Most often you will see “Original deleted” and rarely “File corrupt”.   Please see the Current activity window descriptions for more information.


Backup selected files

This option will immediately backup all files that are selected.  You may use this function in either the Current activity window or the Backed up files window.   First select (highlight) the files you wish to have backed up immediately, then choose Backup selected files.


All pending files

This option will immediately begin backing up all files that are listed in the Current activity window as Not backed up yet.  This temporarily over-rides the delay time before beginning a file backup.


Validate

The Validate function checks the integrity of the DATABASE.DAT archive file.  Various time, compression, version and version counter values are verified.  Additionally each file in the Backup Archive is examined to determine its integrity.


Compare

This function compares the latest version of a file in the Backup Archive to the file in original location. In other words, it compares the latest version of the backup to the original file.  As the result, a file can change two states: "Original deleted" and "Original does not match".  Files are compared byte-byte, so if you add an empty line to the end of a txt file, it will be different.


Compact

When you select Compact, all "EMPTY" records are removed from Database.dat.  EMPTY” database records are no records that are no longer in use.

When a file is deleted or moved (full path is changed), the database record may change in size and cause EMPTY records to be left over.

AutoSave automatically launches Compact after all operations like delete or rename. However, there are some situations when it is impossible to predict whether EMPTY records may develop.  Compact can be used to remove these and somewhat reduce the size of the DATABASE.DAT file.


Move or rename

The Move or rename command is used to “re-link” files that have been moved or renamed.  If you have backups of a file from when it was under a prior name or location, these backups can be rejoined to the new name or location by using the Move or rename command


Delete


Rebuild database

The Rebuild database command can be used to have AutoSave reconstruct the DATABASE.DAT file.  If the file is erased, damaged or corrupted, AutoSave can rebuild the file and version information about the Backup Archive.  It CAN NOT recreate damaged or destroyed user data files.  See also Steps to rebuild DATABASE.DAT.


Delete selected

This command deletes the selected file(s) from the Backup Archive.  You may use this function in either the Current activity window or the Backed up files window.   First select (highlight) the files you wish to have deleted from the archive, then choose Delete selected.


Delete old revisions

This command deletes all old versions of the selected file(s) from the Backup Archive.  The latest back up copy is maintained in the archive. You may use this function in either the Current activity window or the Backed up files window.   First select (highlight) the files you wish to have deleted from the archive,  then choose Delete selected.


Delete if original deleted

This command deletes all “Original deleted” backup files from the Backup Archive.  These are files that no longer have a corresponding original file.  This can help save space in the archive. You may use this function in either the Current activity window or the Backed up files window.

NOTE:  The procedure processes all Backup Archive entries at once.  If you wish to selectively remove these “orphaned” then proceed by deleting the files individually or in groups using the Expanded view in the Backed up files window.  Hint:  Click on the column heading “State” to have all of the “Original deleted” entries placed together.


Advanced Options

Prevent backup drive spin down - When enabled this prevents the backup drive from spinning down on systems that have a idle drive spin down feature. This maximizes the system performance. For a laptop user who is using a local hard drive for backup, you may wish to disable this option for longer battery operation.  If the laptop user is using a network drive for backups, this option can be left on, and will not affect battery performance.

Minimum save time between versions in minutes - When a work file changes, it is backed up.  With this option set to zero, each later change is saved to the archive.  If you make frequent changes (or the file is modified many times quickly) all of the versions saved will be very similar.  You may prefer to have only less frequent changes saved, such as those that take more than several minutes between changes.

This option defines how often different versions of the same file are saved to the archive.  Note: some applications, like Excel, will write the same file multiple times in quick succession.  Setting this option to 1 or above will avoid saving these excess duplicates.

Delay after file change for backup in minutes - This option specifies how long after a work file has changed to wait before backing it up.  A value of zero will backup the file almost immediately (usually in about 5 seconds).

Backup file only when file is created or modified - When enabled (the default), work files that are created or modified are backed up.  With this option off, work files that are closed are backed up, even if no changes were made to the file.

When a setup program runs, offer to suspend AutoSave - When you install new software and run a typical Setup or Install, AutoSave can detect this and offer to temporarily turn itself off.  Most applications, when installed, will have many sample files that are not necessary to save into the backup archive. By turning off AutoSave, this avoids wasting backup space on these files.  AutoSave will resume automatically when you next restart Windows, should you choose to turn off AutoSave when prompted.

Show read access errors – Some windows utility programs prevent access to their key files.  When AutoSave attempts to access these files to back them up, reading is prevented.  AutoSave will then display the Read Access error message.  If there are many such files the error messages may become a nuisance.  You may wish to ignore further error messages.  To do so, deselect the check box in the error message dialog or deselect the corresponding check box in Advanced.  You may additionally wish to exclude these files from being backed up under the Exclude tab in Custom Setup.


Corrupt Files

As backup operations progress, the DATABASE.DAT is periodically validated. If these validations determine irregularities about files that have been backed up, then the files in the archive are marked as corrupt.  This indicates the backed up file (archive) is corrupt, NOT the original.

There may be several reasons for this.  The archived file could be corrupt, or the original file may have been changed or replaced in such a way that AutoSave could not back it up.  An apparent mismatch would then occur.  AutoSave presumes the original to be correct in this situation and labels the archive corrupt when in fact be fine it may be fine.  If  “Corrupt” files are needed, then it is recommended they be restored to an alternate location for a determination to be made.


AutoSave not responding
AutoSave not responding or no Wizard Control menu

If the AutoSave task shows as “Not responding” when you press Alt-Ctrl-Del in Windows or it fails to display to display the Wizard Control menu or Current Activity screen when you click on the AutoSave icon [image]  in the system tray then the DATABASE.DAT file is likely corrupt.  To repair the DATABASE.DAT file proceed as follows.

1.	Cancel the AutoSave task in the windows dialog box where it is shown as “Not responding”.

2.	Next locate the DATABASE.DAT file in the backup archive.  Delete the DATABASE.DAT file.

3.	From the Windows Start menu select Programs, then AutoSave, then AutoSave Setup Wizard. The AutoSave Setup Wizard will then start.  Click on Custom then on Next.  Then choose OK and then Finish.

4.	Shutdown your system and Restart Windows.

5.	Click on the AutoSave icon [image] in the system tray.  Select View Current Activity. Then from the menu bar select Backup, then select Rebuild database.  AutoSave will then rebuild the DATABASE.DAT file, this may take a few moments.

AutoSave will now be running properly and the DATABASE.DAT file will have been rebuilt.  You will have access to all prior backups.


Steps to rebuild the DATABASE.DAT file

Follow these step to rebuild a corrupted DATABASE.DAT file.

1.	Exit AutoSave by right-clicking on the AutoSave icon [image] in the system tray or Cancel the AutoSave task by selecting AutoSave in the windows dialog box where it is shown as “Not responding”.

2.	Next locate the DATABASE.DAT file in the backup archive.  Delete the DATABASE.DAT file.

3.	From the Windows Start menu select Programs, then AutoSave, then AutoSave Setup Wizard. The AutoSave Setup Wizard will then start.  Click on Custom then on Next.  Then choose OK and then Finish.

4.	Shutdown your system and Restart Windows.

5.	Click on the AutoSave icon [image] in the system tray.  Select View Current Activity. Then from the menu bar select Backup, then select Rebuild database.  AutoSave will then rebuild the DATABASE.DAT file, this may take a few moments.

AutoSave will now be running properly and the DATABASE.DAT file will have been rebuilt.  You will have access to all prior backups.