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SUGGESTIONS FOR BACKUP/RESTORE
•
Try not to re-use tapes. They are relatively inexpensive to buy and potentially carry very expensive
data so it is not wise to economise.
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Do not use ordinary audio tapes unless you're really stuck as tapes made specifically for backup
will be more reliable.
•
Try to organise your backups sensibly to make restoring them easier.
•
In much the same as in 'the old days' of 1/4 inch and multi-track tapes, try to ensure that the
tape box is well labelled. Include any relevant information regarding the data stored on it.
Include dates, client names and anything else you think appropriate that will make recognition
of the material and the restore that much easier. Remember! It might not be you who restores
it but somebody completely unfamiliar with the data.
•
Store and treat the tapes carefully. Just because the media is small doesn't mean it doesn't
deserve the same respect as a hefty 10" reel of master tape.
•
Naturally, keep backup tapes away from magnetic sources such as monitor speakers, etc..
•
If you have to send the backups anywhere, make a copy of them first.
•
When sending tapes anywhere, package them well in a suitable padded envelope or box and
wrap the tape in aluminium foil to help prevent damage from stray magnetic interference.
•
Always write protect the tape. It may be a nuisance should you try to backup to it and get an
error message but this is better than accidentally formatting it or overwriting existing backups.
•
If you are travelling abroad with your backups, take them as hand luggage. Although the X-ray
machines are supposed to be safe, you may be able to persuade airport security to have them
manually inspected (normal luggage is often subjected to high power X-ray inspection that may
not be too kind on the tape). Leave a copy at home just in case.
•
Keep backups away from liquids, etc..
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Do not leave tapes lying around in vehicles, especially on hot days.
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