Gasboy CFN III Manager Manual V3.6 - Manual (Page 165)

MDE-4871 CFN III Manager’s Manual for Windows® XP Embedded - Version 3.6 · August 2010 Page 16-1
Why Take Backups? Backup System Data and Disk Files
16 – Backup System Data and Disk Files
Why Take Backups?
Backups prevent data disasters.
A backup is a copy of data or files that is kept separate from the original for safety and
security. For example, you must make a backup copy of the Site Controller release disk. You
must also make backup copies of command files that you use on your Site Controller. Gasboy
provides some programs and command files that allow you to back up Site Controller system
data. You must use these to back up data that has been loaded into or collected on the Site
Controller.
There are several reasons for keeping current backups of files and system data.
• When you install a new release of the operating system, some of the tables that contain
system data may be reconstructed and the data will be lost. If you have a current backup,
you can restore the data from the backup.
• The software for a Site Controller is supplied on the hard disk and also on a backup floppy
disk. During normal system use, any configuration changes or command files that you add
to the Site Controller are can be placed on the hard disk. These changes must be copied
onto the backup floppy disk to keep your backup current.
• The tables that contain system data may be reconstructed if the Site Controller crashes.
• Data may inadvertently become corrupted through user error.
• Files may be deleted or changed by accident.
• Floppy disks or hard disks can become damaged or corrupted.
• Although unlikely, the system could fall victim to deliberate sabotage.
• In spite of every precaution in the design and installation of the system, it could
experience a physical failure (or fire, flood, or other disaster).
To ensure you always have an up-to-date backup, it is a good idea to back up the system data
every day. If your site is polled for transactions by a remote system at least once a day, you do
not require to back up transactions, as there will be a record of them on the remote system.
The amount of time it takes to back up the system is very small compared to the time it would
take to reconstruct the data if a current backup were not available when required.
At a minimum, you must back up system data before you install a new release, and after you
change any system data, such as price or product data.
You must always make a backup copy of the release disk and any other diskettes that are
shipped to you. You must also make a backup copy of FRAMOS.CFG every time you change
the configuration, and you must make backup copies of any command files or other important
files you create.