Backup Restore an Acer (Tip of the Iceberg)

I want to get rid of all the programs I don't like or want on my laptop.
I want to put a clean install of the version of Vista that came with my laptop without having to reactivate my copy.
I want a multi boot system with XP, Vista and Win7.
I want to wipe the harddrive and do what I want with my laptop.

I also want to beable to restore to factory state should I want to sell it later.

It's the last bit that make all the difference. Being able to recover to factory state requires:

Acer BIOS
Acer MBR
Acer D2D Partition

ACER BIOS

Most laptops will have a BIOS update available during it's life time. These are available from the Acer Support Page. The BIOS manages the components of the Laptop that are connected to the motherboard. The Motherboard maybe used in other makes of Laptop or available from component resellers. The BIOS on these Laptops are the same except they will not contain Acer's Manufactures String or referrance. Acer Factory Supplied Recovery software will need this referrance to function. It is important to know that using other makes of BIOS updates including the motherboards makers own BIOS update could wipe this data and render the easy use of the recovery program unusable. Stick to Acer's updates for peace of mind. If backing up the BIOS ensure that the entire BIOS including Acer's Manufactures String are included.

To sum up. The BIOS is not affected by OS installation or repartitioning and no special treatment is needed.

ACER MBR

This part of the harddrive is customized by Acer. This customization does two things:

1. Hides the PQSERVICE eRecovery Partition. (Partition 0).
2. Enables the use of Acer's D2D eRecovery by pressing ALT + F10 at bootup.

Using the laptop shouldn't alter this MBR data. However, a virus could. So backing up the MBR is a good idea for that reason alone.

Other instances that alter MBR data is the installation of a new Windows OS. Installing Multiboot Software. Repartitioning.

The good news is that backing up the MBR is easy with HDHacker and it's free.

hxxp://dimio.altervista.org/

It runs in windows and has a real simple interface. You'll also see that important string "Acer.X..system" when backing up your MBR.

ACER D2D Partition (Partition 0)

Partition's start at 0. So if you're asked to delete partition 1, ask if that's the first partition or the second!!!! Deleting the wrong partition can be costly if nothing other than in your time.

There are four (4) partitions locations available and Acer seem to use just three (3):

Partition 0 : PQSERVICE - eRecovery Partition
This is the most important partition on your Acer Laptop after your own personal data. No one can restore your lost photos, letters etc... so back them up now!!!!

This partition contains a factory backup of partition 1. Your Windows OS and drivers and all the trial software you never use. It's important to backup this partition using a Harddisk Backup Application. The idea is to create an image of Partition 0 as special archive files on a DVD. However, for speed you can create this backup on D (Partition 2 the third partition labled D: in windows). You can copy to DVD (Probably 2 single layer DVD's) later.


That's it. Well, almost. I would also backup your Vista Activation should you want to do a fresh install of your Vista using a Vista DVD.

http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=120228
hxxp://directedge.us/content/abr-activation-backup-and-restore

There is a wealth of info here:
http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=11476&page=35 see entire thread
http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=378852
http://forum.notebookreview.com/ loads

 

If i ever start shooting people ,
will be because they simply believe the above.

Now because the rest of the thread are loaded , with lots of rules .....

The primary idea of the "rebel laptop owner " .... walks away sooner than the expected time limit .

Bottom line ..... live peacefully with your laptop , its your new partner ... and not a spoiled dog , so to need a hard less , master .

No rep points for you , because you are not a honest rebel

 

Any imaging software will take care of this for you. Acronis / Ghost / Etc.

Don't forget to leave partitioned space on the HDD for Windows 7 / Vista. Also remember to stay within your licensing for the Operating System... if your computer did not come with Window Vista Business or Windows Vista Ultimate you can NOT legally downgrade to windows xp.

Also being that windows vista handles your MBR differently you will need to install Windows XP first before installing Vista / 7.