Drive Image and Partition Magic ...
I've both packages. I used PM a few times at first to get things the way I want, and once I've settled on how I want things, I've had no need to make changes, so I haven't used it since. But until then, I found it an easy way to experiment.
I use DI continually. Like so many others, I keep an inventory of drive images: Each one slightly different. DI makes restoring my system effortless. Again, continual experimenting improves the way my system operates: Some ideas offer improvements and others degrade.
I use DI in two ways: Recovery from 'software' problems and as a safety net in case of hardware failure. I've been lucky so far and not had a hardware failure with any of my four computers, but I'm still prepared. I keep 'known as good' images of my system on Zip disks. I ask the question "If my disk disintegrates, and needs replacement, can I re-create my current system?" and take action if I don't like the answer.
Software problems are by far the most frequent reason I need to restore an image. Again, two reasons lead to this: An experiment gone bad; or my system craps-out for no apparent reason. While the experiments can be timed to minimize disruption, and I know 'where' to look to find the trouble (mirror), often the few minutes to do a DI restore is easier, faster, and more reliable. The 'surprise' problems are another matter: Windows seems to know exactly when I have the least time or when the work is most important and times the trouble accordingly. When this happens, I can spend hour after frustrating hour trying to figure out what went wrong, and often fail after putting in the effort. DI can get my system back quicker than I can make a coffee, (I use instant) and with no anxiety.
Since I have one physical drive, I put images on different partitions. This allows me to recover from the type of problems I encounter most. If I had another drive, I'd use it too/instead. I'd still use some removable media in anticipation of hardware failure or theft.
As the difficulty of installing a second drive, I think it's quite easy, although I'd take your system to the shop and have them do it. That way, if a problem arises, it's theirs and not yours.
Hope this helps, PW.
P.S. PowerQuest, the maker of DI and PM also make Disk Copy, but I haven't used it. I also don't remember reading any posts about it either. But since their other programs work so well, I'd be inclined to read the side of the box and give it a try if it sounded like it answered my needs. |
