Automate Back-Up of Database.

Currently, one can back-up the local database using a .bat file, which is scheduled by Windows task scheduler. While this is simple enough to do, my request would be to automate this process.

I’m suggesting perhaps a feature within the database section of the Config Utility, which could be enabled or disabled. One could choose the days and time for the process to happen. One could also use a “browse” button to choose the default folders.

If this is not possible, perhaps mAirList could include a default .bat file among its files that could be modified by the users to their needs as well as scheduled by Task Scheduler.

My guess is that this feature would help many who are not regularly backing up the database.

Regards, Alec M.

Sounds like a good idea to me, Alec; and as you say, should ‘encourage’ those who don’t currently back up their databases.

I’d suggest this is implemented as two new Miscellaneous Actions: Backup Database and Restore Database.

The dialog for each of these new Actions would ideally contain a list of all the currently installed Databases in mAirList (regardless of type, so e.g. iTunes and on-the-fly would be there), just like the Databases node in Config), BUT with a checkbox beside each entry in the list. Therefore: just ONE Event (or one per database, as you prefer) to back up ALL your mAirList-related Databases, if that’s your style.

Also required would be a Backup to folder/Restore from folder textbox with an associated Browse… button. The folder textboxes should support logging variables, and create the resolved folder name if it doesn’t exist already.

This method would also enable you to schedule backups (and even test Restores! ;)) from within the Event Scheduler, which seems the logical place for it (well, where would YOU look within mAirList for the database backup scheduling? :D). 8)

Internally, the logic handling the Action would need to ‘know’ which files to back up for each Database type. Where that isn’t practical or possible, the Database name and checkbox should be greyed out in the selection list.

Note that these Actions should be present in all editions of mAirList which allow Databases of any sort, since Personal Edition users might already use an on-the-fly or iTunes database, for example.

BFN
CAD