How can I backup my OS and programs onto 1TB external?

I want to dual boot Vista and Ubuntu with yet a third OS. This third OS isn't your normal OS so I want to backup my Vista partition, preferably this would include settings and programs. I have a 1TB USB hard drive to backup to.

Whats the best way to do this? Can anyone point me to a particular guide?

I was thinking of using GParted to copy the partition over, if thats possible. Is this an option, or are there better alternatives?

 

if you have vista ultimate, you can use it's copy tool, to make a copy on the usb drive
or you can get acronis true home image 11, use the trial and make a complete copy. Paragon also makes a nice copy tool

 

I'll second Acronis. I used Echo Workstation + Universal Restore and it went flawlessly.

 

If one of the drives is a Seagate (or Maxtor) they have a free utility (Seagate Disk Wizard) made by Acronis and similar True Image.

http://www.seagate.com/ww/v/index.j...toid=d9fd4a3cdde5c010VgnVCM100000dd04090aRCRD

http://www.seagate.com/ww/v/index.j...toid=7add8b9c4a8ff010VgnVCM100000dd04090aRCRD

I've used it to clone a entire HDD when I upgraded, and make and restore backups of my C drive.

 

I think I'll try the copy tool you mentioned nobscot6. I don't have Vista Ultimate but fortunately it comes with Vista Business as well. It seems that Acronis True Image would be a better choice but I'm short on bandwidth. Thanks for the suggestions.