Entire HD backup

[shifty_uk]

Before now I've only backed up vital folders and files but I'd like to do a clean system install and back all my existing hard drives up.

For backing up the Apple HD, would it be a simple case of dragging and dropping the Macintosh HD route folder on my desktop over to my external(backup) hard drive? Would this capture all the vital applications and system settings?

Or, would I require specific software to do the job correctly?

Cheers fellas

 

[shifty_uk]

The backup in question will be my system running Tiger so Time Machine isn't included as far as I'm aware?

 

[shifty_uk]

Cheers chaps, ended up going with CCC, works a treat

Quick additional question without starting a new thread, this is a first gen Macbook(bought it pre-release back in the day). Would I be right in thinking it only holds 2gig maximum ram? Giving it to my other half for uni and more ram would be beneficial.

 

[shifty_uk]

DON'T use CCC if you have Adobe apps (such as Photoshop) as there's a good chance that they won't work properly once you're using the restored system (known problem and I experienced this myself). SuperDuper! works perfectly though.

I've went off this software right from the start. I got the absolute fright of my life when I ran it then checked my external HD afterwards - It appeared to have cleared my external HD of all files and deleted 300gig worth of work. WTF, 5 minutes of near suicide passed before I found the files discretely hidden away in an archives folder. Phew.... I haven't quite recovered from the shock.

Wont be using this again, apparently there's another subtle option which does wipe the external HD.