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Back-up Datafiles

This option is accessed from the main program screen by selecting "Databases" and then selecting "BackUp/Restore Datafiles" from the drop/down menu. It is used to create a back-up copy of all of the data files currently on the estimating system OR to restore data files from a previous back up. As mentioned in the note in the chapter overview, a back-up routine should be established to be sure a current backup of all the data files is always available. It should take only a couple of minutes to perform a back up of your data files. (Also see Auto System Backup in a later chapter.)

Once you have selected BackUp/Restore Datafiles, the screen in Figure 1 will appear. To start the backup procedure, simply select "System Back-Up/Restore."


Figure 1



NOTE:The back-up routine included in this program should NOT be used as a replacement for using a professionally designed back-up program to make periodic back-ups of your entire system. This routine should be used in addition to a full back up. All data files should be periodically backed-up to CD(or other memory storage device), another computer or server on your network. If something were to happen to an individual computer, ProEstimate HEAVY can be easily re-installed on the computer, however all the data that had been entered (project files, contractor databases, pay item databases, etc.) would be lost. To prevent this from happening, a regular back-up schedule should be established (at least once a month).

Figure 2 shows the "Back-Up/Restore Data Files" window that is displayed after selecting the “System Back-Up/Restore” option as the Back-Up Type(Figure 1).
***NOTE***: You must close all open estimates and windows before selecting this option AND if you are using the Network version of ProEstimate Heavy you must ensure that ALL other users are closed out of the system.


Figure 2

To Back-Up Data Files

Select “Back-Up” on the top of the screen.(Figure 2) and then select the file types that you want to Back-Up from the list.
Select the path to the back up file location. Use the button to browse for a location. You will then see the window shown below.
Select the files to back-up.
Press the START Button.

The system will start the back-up process and create the following back up files using the ZIP format (depending on which files you selected to back up):



ProEstimate HEAVY uses data compression (ZIP format) to save disk space.

LAB.ZIP

 All Labor Rate Databases

EQ.ZIP

 All Equipment Rate Databases

MATL.ZIP

 Material Databases (including Asphalt)

CREW.ZIP

 Crew Databases

CONN.ZIP

  Contractor Databases

PI.ZIP

  All Pay Item Databases

JOB1.ZIP

 Estimate files (part 1)

JOB2.ZIP

 Estimate files (part 2)

JOB3.ZIP

 Project Backup files