Hard Drive Image backup loses Dell PC Restore feature

Question

I’m attempting an image backup my Inspiron 8600, 60 MB HD machine by transferring the three partition images and storing on a large external backup drive.  To make sure it will reload correctly when I need it, I obtained an identical 60 MB drive to test the reload.  I’ve tried both Ghost and DriveImage imaging software along with Partition Magic to give visibility and show the structure and types of partitions on the original and 2nd drive while doing the transfers.  When finished, the partitions on each disk look identical in type, size, order, etc.  I copied boot.ini in the root directory from the original to the 2nd drive with no changes.  The problem is that the computer then boots directly to the active system NTFS partition without displaying the 'www.dell.com' blue strip at the top of the screen. This means I’ve lost the ability to use the Dell PC Restore feature.  What did I miss?

bacillus · Answer

Do a search on this forum as I recall that someone posted claiming that Acronis TrueImage8 can successfully image everything on the drive.

GreyMack · Answer

I'm curious, did you try both Ghost 9 and Ghost 2003, and did you try imaging (and restoring) the whole drive as a single image rather than the individual partitions?

I've yet to comprehend the mechanics of the issues, but this page has some interesting info.

http://www.goodells.net/dellrestore/fixes.htm

GM

Gus Wilson · Answer

Thanks for the link! I used dsrfix.com from the link , it found the problem and fixed it. I started this by using Ghost 9 first and it changed the size of the first partition when reinstalling on the second drive so I ordered PartitionMagic 8 to correct it. At the same time, I got Drive Image 7 because it was cheap. Even with resizing the first partition, it wouldn't boot. Found the problem in boot.ini file and corrected. Finally was left with inability to reload original system but could run the copied image. Drive Image 7 is very close to Ghost 9 but I like it better. (partition sizes are restored accurately)

I tried imaging the whole drive which records the same files as doing them individually. Restoring them placed the partitions back on the drive in different order.

GW

Storage, Drives & Media

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