Top Level Category

Table of Contents

  1. Contents of Top Level Category
    1. Errors & Error Messages (Understanding Errors and Messages)
    2. Outlook Tips (Useful information on Microsoft Outlook)
    3. Using AJSystems Programs (Tips and Answers on usage of programs from...)
      1. Amigo! Pro (Amigo! Specific FAQ\'s)
      2. BackDora (BackDora Specific Questions)
      3. Backups - General (General questions on the Backups)
      4. Eazy Backup (Eazy Backup \"How TO\'s\" and FAQ\'s)
      5. Express Assist (Express Assist Specific FAQ\'s)
      6. OE Quick Tools (OE Quick Tools 4 Specific FAQ\'as)
      7. OutBack Plus (OutBack Plus specific FAQ\'s)
      8. PrintScreenWorks (Print Screen Works specific questions)

Top Level Category

Parent category to all other categories

"Data Execution Prevention" (DEP) in Windows Vista

Windows VistaTM includes a new feature named "Data Execution Prevention"  (or DEP).

DEP, which is only available on some hardware, is intended to block the execution of some types programs.  This was implemented to thwart  many virus type programs.  Unfortunately, the DEP may also block the execution of valid programs (including some supplied by Microsoft).

If DEP has blocked the execution, you may receive a messages like
"xxxx program has stopped working".  This can be resolved as follows:

1. Go to the Start menu - Contol Panel

2. Click the System & Maintenance function:

3. Click the System function:

4. Click Change Settings
(Note you will need to acknowledge the Account Contol warning)

5. Click the Advanced tab

6. Click the Settings on the Advanced tab

7. Click the Data Execution Prevention tab
(If this tab is not present - then your system computer does not support DEP)

8. The Data Execution Prevention window shows the settings:

9. If the option "Turn on DEP for all programs and services except those I select" is set, then:

A. - set the option to "Turn on DEP for essential Windows programs and services only"

-- or --

B. - Click the Add button and add your program to the list of exceptions.

For example, to add Express Assist 9 to the list, click Add and broswse to locate "c:/program files/EA9/EA9.exe"

10. Restart your machine to complete the changes.

Program fails to start - CPU Use is 100% - System Mechanic 7 is installed

The System Mechanic 7 product from a company known as Iolo can interfere with the functioning of software from AJSystems (and a lot of other software for that matter).

The symptoms of the problem are
  1. The application (e.g. OutBack Plus, Eazy Backup, etc) fails to start.
  2. There are no error messages and no windows that open. Nothing to indicate the nature of the failure
  3. The CPU usage hits 100% and stays there. (If you have dual core CPU's you'll see usage stuck at 50%)
  4. The the windows task manager you'll see the program running (e.g. obp6.exe) but nothing else happening

The cause of the problem seems to be that System Mechanic 7 contains a Windows service called, Iolo DMV Service, IOLODMVSVC.EXE. This service starts itself when windows boots up.

Once started this iolo DMV Service seems to be inserting code into other processes. That is to say, Iolo are adding new code to our software before it runs.

Finally even after you uninstall System Mechanic 7, Iolo leaves this DMV Service running on your system. So uninstalling System Mechanic 7 does not fix the problem as the software doees not completely uninstall.

Fixing the problem requires you to uninstall System Mechanic 7 and then manually disable the iolo DMV service from the Windows Control panel / Administrative tools / Services window.

The offending code inserted into other processes is contained in the DLL, ioloHL.dll

Once the service is disabled, the DLL is not inserted and the problem is fixed. 

What exactly this DLL does, we don't know. But it does cause our programs and a lot of  other applications to fail.  We would like to think it is an accidental flaw in System Mechanic, but why not allow it to be uninstalled?  We have contacted Iolo regarding this issue but have had no response.

Note:  We have heard recently (from our users - not from Iolo) that there is a new release of System Mechanic - version 7.1.4 - that may cure these problems. 


 


Using this KnowledgeBase

 

To begin using this knowledge base you have two options:

The categories are listed on the left.  If you are looking for something specific try the search box or click on advanced search for a more in-depth search query.

If you need help in something that the KnowledgeBase does not contain or you are unable to find what you are looking for, feel free to \"Ask a Question\".

Errors & Error Messages

Understanding Errors and Messages

"Data Execution Prevention" (DEP) in Windows Vista

Windows VistaTM includes a new feature named "Data Execution Prevention"  (or DEP).

DEP, which is only available on some hardware, is intended to block the execution of some types programs.  This was implemented to thwart  many virus type programs.  Unfortunately, the DEP may also block the execution of valid programs (including some supplied by Microsoft).

If DEP has blocked the execution, you may receive a messages like
"xxxx program has stopped working".  This can be resolved as follows:

1. Go to the Start menu - Contol Panel

2. Click the System & Maintenance function:

3. Click the System function:

4. Click Change Settings
(Note you will need to acknowledge the Account Contol warning)

5. Click the Advanced tab

6. Click the Settings on the Advanced tab

7. Click the Data Execution Prevention tab
(If this tab is not present - then your system computer does not support DEP)

8. The Data Execution Prevention window shows the settings:

9. If the option "Turn on DEP for all programs and services except those I select" is set, then:

A. - set the option to "Turn on DEP for essential Windows programs and services only"

-- or --

B. - Click the Add button and add your program to the list of exceptions.

For example, to add Express Assist 9 to the list, click Add and broswse to locate "c:/program files/EA9/EA9.exe"

10. Restart your machine to complete the changes.

"Unable to create directory" when doing a "Restore"

Applies to: Express Assist 7

This error occurs on some XP systems which have never been used for email.  To resolve the problem:

  1. Run Outlook Express
  2. The Outlook Express setup wizard will request inforamtion to setup an email account.  Enter an account - or cancel the account creation.  (You can start Outlook Express without an email account).
  3. Once the initial Outlook Express window shows ("Welcome to Outlook Express") - exit Outlook Express.
  4. Check to see that the Windows messenger is NOT running... look in the system tray (the area beside the clock) for the Messenger icon (two heads) and, if found, right click on the "messeneger" to exit.
  5. redo the restore.

Address list could not be displayed.

If you attempt to address a new message from your Contacts, you may receive the following error message:

The address list could not be displayed. The Contacts folder associated with this address list could not be opened; it may have been moved or deleted, or you do not have permissions. For information on how to remove this folder from the Outlook Address Book, see Microsoft Outlook Help.

This behavior can occur if the Microsoft Outlook Address Book setup is damaged.

If you have Outlook 2000 see:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;q251416

If you have Outlook 2002, Outlook 2003 or Outlook 2007 see:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q319901

An invalid version of system module "xceedzip.dll" was detected

Applies to: Express Assist, OutBack Plus, Eazy Backup

This error will result if you have installed some other software
which has, in turn, installed an out of date version of a shared
system level file (xceedzip.dll).

To correct the problem:

Backup fails when saving to a CD

If you are using Version 5.x of the Roxio "Direct CD" on Windows XP, you may experience random failures and lockups. 

There are compatibility issues with XP which are resolved by installing the latest updates from Roxio.  This can be done via the "Web Update" on the Roxio "Project Selector" window or by visiting the support page of Roxio.com

For more information, please see the following Microsoft Knowledge Base Article.

Bad Variable Type

Applies to: Express Assist, OutBack Plus, Eazy Backup

This error will result if you have installed some other software
which has, in turn, installed an out of date version of a shared
system level file (xceedzip.dll).

To correct the problem:

 

Eazy Backup Engine has stopped working

When starting Eazy Backup under Windows VistaTM, you may receive a messge like:
"Eazy Backup Engine has stopped working" -- as below:

       

See: "Data Execution Prevention" (DEP) in Windows Vista for more information.

Error 503 - while making a backup

Applies to: Express Assist, OutBack Plus, Eazy Backup

The Error 503 is generally the result of a problem with acces to the backup device.

If saving to a CD, possible causes of this error are:

See the KB article How do I save the backup to CD\'s or DVD\'s for additional information.

If saving to a network drive, or a local drive under Windows 2000/XP, you may not have the appropriate permission to save to the target drive or target folder.

 

Error 507 - while making a backup

Applies to: Express Assist, OutBack Plus, Eazy Backup

The Error 507 is generally a result of an I/O problem with the target device. 

Some possible causes of this error are:

The error will also occur if attempting to save a backup file greater than 4gb on a disk formatted with the FAT32 file system.  You must use the NTFS disk format if files are larger than 4gb.  Alternately, all of our backup programs allow you to save the backup file in smaller 'chunks' to avoid the 4gb limit of FAT32.

Error 526 - while restoring with Express Assist 6

Applies to: Express Assist 6

This is generally the result of a transient I/O error.

Please download the last install of EA 6 from:
http://ajsystems.com/archive/ea6setup.exe

Run the above ea6setup.exe program to update your system.
There is no need to uninstall the existing program.

Then, re-run the restore.

Error 526 - while restoring with OutBack Plus 3

 Applies to: Oulback Plus 3

This is generally the result of a transient I/O error.

Please download the last install of OBP 3 from:
http://ajsystems.com/archive/obp3setup.exe

Run the above obp3setup.exe program to update your system.
There is no need to uninstall the existing program.

Then, re-run the restore.

Error reading mem.log.lines.Strings: Monospace font required.

Applies to: Express Assist, OutBack Plus, Eazy Backup

The log expects to use \"Courier New\" font which is a standard font.

If you do not have \"Courier New\"  do as follows:

1 - Download the setup file from: http://ajsystems.com/files/courie32.exe

2 - select the \'Save to disk\' option to download the file to your hard disk.

3 -  Save the file to your desktop or a temporary folder.

4 - Double click on the file to automatically install the font.  Be sure to make backup copies of any fonts you plan to overwrite.

Express Assist 9 has stopped working

When starting Express Assist under Windows VistaTM, you may receive a messge like:
"Express Assist 9 has stopped working" -- as below:

       

See: "Data Execution Prevention" (DEP) in Windows Vista for more information.

Interface Not Supported

Applies to: Express Assist, OutBack Plus, Eazy Backup

The AJSystems backup programs all uses a very popular compression module: "XceedZip.dll".

Some developers install outdated copies of this system dll. (That is, they are not doing a proper job of the install.... a newer version of the module should never be replaced with an older version).

Some Culprits:

-- Macromedia Homesite (this is now owned by  Adobe).
 
-- TechSmith SnagIt 8.2 upgrade  (very recent).

When the Interface is corrupted - then all kinds of things go awry.

To correct the problem:

 

Is there a Trojan in ezSched.exe?

Applies to: Express Assist, OutBack Plus, Eazy Backup

The program "Trojan Hunter" reports that ezSched.exe contains a trojan (possibly associated with "HackIt100 trojan".

ezSched.exe is a simple scheduling program. It does not contain a trojan.

We recommend updating the Trojan Hunter program to the most recent release. As of ver 3.7, Trojan Hunter no longer give this erroneous report.

OutBack Plus has stopped working

When starting OutBack Plus under Windows VistaTM, you may receive a messge like:
"OutBack Plus has stopped working".

See: "Data Execution Prevention" (DEP) in Windows Vista for more information.

Unable to load control information from backup file

Applies to: Express Assist

This may occur when doing a restore if the compression module is damged.

To correct the problem:

Outlook Tips

Useful information on Microsoft Outlook

"Outbak.dll is not a valid Office add-in" error message

When you start Microsoft Outlook, you may receive an error message that is similar to the following:
C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Office10\Addins\Outbak.dll is not a valid Office add-in.
 
The Outbak.dll file is a component of the Microsoft Outlook Personal Folders Backup add-in.  It is not associated with OutBack Plus or Eazy Backup.
 
To resolve the issue - see the Microsoft KB article: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;319900

Duplicate Personal Folders in Outlook 2003 or 2007

Problem: Outlook 2003 or 2007 shows a Personal Folder twice.  It is just the display that is duplicated - the Personal Folder file (PST file) is not duplicated.

Applies to:  Outlook 2003 or 2007

Cause:  The "duplicate" folder display in Outlook 2003/2007 can happen as follows:

a - you have an older version of Outlook installed (e.g. Outlook 2002).
 
b - you install Outlook 2003 or 2007 to upgrade the existing installation. Outlook 2003 or 2007 is installed but the main data file(s) remain in the older format.  That is, the "upgrade" does not upgrade the data files - just the program.
 
c - you make a backup of the Outlook 2003/2007 installation .... with the old format files; or, you copy the PST files manually.
 
d - you install Outlook 2003 or 2007 on a new machine or newly formatted disk. Outlook 2003/2007 will be initialized with the new Outlook 2003/2007 format data files.
 
e - you restore the backup files (from step c) --- which replaces the initial Outlook 2003 files with the files from the backup.  The problem is that the files in the backup are still the old format files even though the backup appears to have been done from Outlook 2003.  This is a result the "upgrade".  (If doing the copy and replace manually - the same problem occurs).
 
f - when Outlook is restarted - it will show the Personal Folder data file in duplicate even though there is only one underlying data file.  The AJSystems backup program ("OutBack Plus" or "Eazy Backup") did NOT create the duplicate and did NOT restore duplicate folders.  Outlook is just showing the old format data file twice. This is a \'feature\' of Outlook 2003 and 2007. 
 
Resloution:  To resolve the issue, you will need to create a new Outlook Profile and import all of the existing data into the new profile.
 
Note - if you have message rules - the rules will NOT be imported.  You can export the rules to be re-imported later if you wish. Tip: the rules export and import is found at Outlook 2003/2007 menu "Tools" - "Rules and Alerts" - "Options".
 
The process is as follows:
 
A - Confirm the name for the current "Personal Folder" file:
 
1 - Go to the control panel
2 - double click the "Mail" icon
3 - Click "Show Profiles"  (you should see the default profile named "Outlook")
4 - Select it and choose "Properties"
5 - Select "Data Files"
6 - Select "Personal Folders"  - and then "Settings"
7 - Look for the FileName (scroll with the arrow keys to get to the end of the name).  It is likely  "Outlook.pst"
8 - Close these Windows
9 - Exit Outlook -- if it happens to be open.
 
 
B - Create a New Outlook 2003 or 2007 Identity and import data:
 
1 - Go to the control panel
2 - double click the "Mail" icon
3 - Click "Show Profiles"  (you should see the deafult profile named "Outlook")
4 - Click "Add" and then follow the wizard steps to create a new profile (say "Outlook2").
5 - When done - set the option in the profile control to start Outlook with the new profile (or prompt if you like).
6 - Start Outlook (with the new profile) --- it should be empty
7 - Select menu "File" - "Import and Export". 
8 - Select "Import from another program or file", Next. 
9 - Select "Personal Folder File", Next. 
10 - Click the "Browse" button. 
11 - Select the file as found in step A-7 
12 - Click "Next" to import the old data into Outlook 2003/2007. 
13 - Close Outlook
 
C - Delete the old profile   --- when you are happy that the new profile is OK.
 
1 - Go to the Control Panel
2 - double click on "Mail" Icon
3 - Click "Show Profiles"
4 - select the old profile "Outlook"
5 - Remove it.

 

 

Migrating (transferring) Outlook data to a new machine (with OutBack Plus 5 or 6)

Migration or transfer of Outlook data to a new machine can, at times, be difficult.  If the new machine is running the same version of Outlook as the old machine, then a "Full Restore" of the Outlook data (The first restore option of OutBack Plus) is the usually all that is required.

If the new machine is running a newer version of Outlook than some items may not be transferable.  For example, if moving from Outlook 2000 to Outlook 2002, the email accounts and message rules will not transfer.  This is due to design differences in the versions of Outlook - it is not a "bug" in OutBack Plus.

Special care must be taken when transferring to a machine running Outlook 2003 or 2007.  If the old machine has Outlook 2003/2007 that was installed as an upgrade of a prior version of Outlook, it must be considered to be an older version of Outlook (as the data files will still be in the older format even though Outlook 2003 or 207 is installed.  The "Full Restore" of Outlook 2003/2007 Personal Folders should only be done if you are sure that Outlook 2003 or 2007 was installed (on the old machine) as a new copy of Outlook (i.e. it was not an upgrade).

To transfer Outlook data to machine running Outlook 2003 or 2007:

  1. Use the OutBack Plus restore option 1 (Restore All/Selected Data).

  2. Locate the backup file to restore from.

  3. Once the items available to be restored is shown check all Outlook items except the main Outlook Personal Folder file (this is usually Outlook.pst). Do NOT restore the main Outlook data file at this time.

  4. Do "Restore Now".

  5. Run OutBack Plus again.

  6. Select the restore option 3 (Import Outlook Data Files).

  7. Locate the backup file to restore from.

  8. Once the available Personal Folder files are shown, select the main Personal Folder (usually Outlook.pst). Hint - when you hold the mouse cursor over an item in the list - the name of the file is shown in the OutBack Plus status bar.

  9. Check the main Personal Folder (the item not checked in step 3).

  10. Do "Restore Now".

  11. The Personal Folder will be restored with a unique name. The data in this file must be imported into Outlook 2003 or 2007. OutBack Plus will show a Help window to guide you through the import process.

Using AJSystems Programs

Tips and Answers on usage of programs from AJSystems.com

Is Windows Vista supported

The following programs have been updated specifically for use in Windows Vista:

The following programs will not work with Vista as they are designed for use with Outlook Express.  Outlook Express is not available on Windows Vista.  We will supply a similar programs designed for Windows Mail.

PrintScreenWorks will run with Windows Vista as long as the properties are set to run in XP Compatibility mode.

Is Windows XP SP2 supported?

Yes - all of our programs work fine with Windows XP - SP2.

Amigo! Pro

Amigo! Specific FAQ\'s

What happened to Amigo?

We removed Amigo! Pro links from our site as we have not had time to do new development on the program for some time.


We still use it daily ourselves and we provide support for the program, of course.

The old web pages (including download links) still exist at: http://www.ajsystems.com/amigo.html

When we have the development resources, we plan to produce Amigo! 6.0

BackDora

BackDora Specific Questions

What has happened to BackDora?

Question: I have been using BackDora regularly since buying it.  Did you cease offering it for Eudora Pro email users? 

Answer:  We no longer offer the BackDora program.  We do, however, include a full backup and restore for Eudora users within our Eazy Backup program. (See http://ajsystems.com/ezb.html for more information and an evaluation copy).

Registered BackDora users receive a discount on the purchase of Eazy Backup (See web page: http://www.ajsystems.com/ezb-upgrades.html ).

Although we are no longer selling BackDora, we continue to support all users. 

The last build of BackDora is version 2.9 rev 0.   Current Backdora users may upgrade to this version at no charge.  The setup file is available at: http://ajsystems.com/files/bdsetup.exe

Backups - General

General questions on the Backups

Backup of Microsoft Business Contact Manager (BCM) database

The Microsoft Business Contact Manager (BCM) database is managed by an SQL service which will lock the database.  The AJSystems backup programs (OutBack Plus and Eazy Backup) can pause the SQL server to allow the backup to be made.  This is done automatically. However,  the backup must be run with Administrator Privileges for this to be successful.   On Vista - user accounts do not have this elevated privilege level by default.

The backup can be done as follows:

1 - right click on the program icon (e.g. OutBack Plus 6).

2 - choose "Run as Administrator"

This provides the elevated privilege level temporarily.

You may alternately:

1 - right click on the program icon (e.g. OutBack Plus 6).

2 - choose "Properties"

3 - select the "Compatibilities" tab

4 - set the option "Run as Administrator"

5 - click  "OK"

Does Eazy Backup do everything that is done by Express Assist?

The Eazy Backup support for Outlook Express / Windows Mail / Windows Live Mail includes:

** backup of a single Outlook Express Identity   (most users have only one OE Identity).
** restore of all mail folders or selected mail folders
** transfer of Outlook Express mail from XP to Windows Mail  or Windows Live Mail on Vista
** Backup and restore of  Windows Mail
** Backup and restore of  Windows Live Mail

Express Assist has more Outlook Express / Windows Mail / Windows Live Mail oriented features including:

** backup and restore of multiple Outlook Express identities at one time
** restore of all mail folders or selected mail folders  (as in Eazy Backup)
** restore of selected messages
** search for messages in the backup
** view messages without restoring
** backup and restore of  Windows Mail (in EA9)
** backup and restore of  Windows Live Mail (in EA9)
** transfer of Outlook Express mail from XP to Windows Mail on Vista (also in Eazy Backup)
** transfer of Windows Mail on Vista  to Outlook Express mail from XP

If you main interest is a disaster recovery type backup - then Eazy Backup is quite suitable. However, if you need advanced support for Outlook Express, Windows Mail and Windows Live Mail - then Express Assist will be a better choice.


 

Does Eazy Backup do everything that Outback Plus does?

OutBack Plus is designed specifically for the Outlook user.  The current version (6.0) has many of the functions and features contained in Eazy Backup.

Both programs are intended to be used for backup and restore of data.

Eazy Backup includes built-in logic to backup and restore a large number of applications - including Outlook, and at least 27 others at present time.  Eazy Backup is designed to be easy to expand as new applications are developed.

All of the functions in OutBack Plus 6 are included in Eazy Backup.

So - Eazy Backup is a more general purpose Application Backup and Restore program - while OutBack Plus focuses mainly on Microsoft Outlook.

 

How do I change where my backup is saved?

Applies to: Express Assist, OutBack Plus, Eazy Backup

Example:

I have my backup saved to a folder on my "E" drive. How can I change it to save on the "D" drive?

Answer:

At the last step of the backup - just before you click "Backup now" - look to the top right of this window for the "Browse" button.  Click "Browse" to select a new location for the backup file. 

NOTE:

If you are saving to a CD - refer to the notes on CD writing in this knowledge base.

How do I save the Backup to CD's or DVD's?

Direct saving of the backup files to CD or DVD disk is supported as long as the disks have been pre formatted to accept direct file writes.  You will need to have some type of CD/DVD software installed on your system that makes your CD/DVD drive act as a standard drive.

On Windows Vista, this capability is built-in to the operating system. No third party program is required.  Prepare the CD as follows:

  1. insert a blank CD
  2. select the "Burn Files to Disk" option
  3. click the "Show formatting options" button
  4. make sure that the "Live File System" is selected
  5. click Next and wait for the CD to be formatted
  6. once the format is done - the CD is ready to accept backup files
  7. when done - locate the CD drive in the list of drives (in the My Computer window)
  8. right click on the CD drive and choose "Eject".  NOTE: even though Windows Vista indicates that it is 'closing' the session so that the CD may be read on other machines, the CD may NOT be usable on a non VISTA machine.

Other (modern) machines (not running Vista) are usually supplied with software to support this function.  The most popular software packages are:

Roxio "Easy CD Creator" -- Later versions (i.e. version 6 and 7) of the "Easy CD Creator", include a function called "Drag-To-Disc".  The "Drag-To-Disc" allows all other programs on the system to save data directly to a CD-R, CD-RW, DVR-R or DVD-RW disk.  It is used as follows:

 1. -- insert a blank disk
 2. -- if Windows shows a window asking what to do - "cancel" this window.
 3. -- look for the "Drag-To-Disc" window (lower right corner of the screen).
 4. -- right click on this window
 5. -- choose "Format"
 6. -- wait until the format is done. 
 You are now ready to save data files directly to the CD or DVD drive.

Roxio "Easy CD Creator" -- Legacy versions (prior to version 6) are supplied with with a module named "DirectCD" which performs the functions similar to "Drag-To-Disc".  The "DirectCD" module is started from the "Data Project" selection on the Roxio project selector. Note:  DirectCD Version 5 was very problematic on Windows XP.  You MUST have the latest release of version 5 to operate reliably on Windows XP.

Nero Burning Rom -- Most versions of NERO are supplied with a module named "InCD" which provide the direct write support.  "InCD" requires that you use CD-RW, DVD+RW or DVD-RW disks only.

When you start your computer, InCD starts automatically. There is no link to InCD in the Programs folder. The InCD icon appears in the system tray, which is usually in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen. The InCD icon shows information about the CD, which is currently in the drive, or about the drive itself. You must format unformatted discs before you can use them with InCD.

Sonic RecordNow Max -- The  Sonic product includes a module named "DLA" (Drive Letter Access). The DLA module provide the required functionality. You must format the discs before you can use them with DLA.

DLA is supplied with many machines under other brand names.  It may even be supplied under the machine manufacturer\'s name.

Windows XP Users Note:  Windows XP includes built-in functionality to use CD media as a destination to write files to within Windows Explorer.  This functionality is only included for Windows Explorer.  This does not allow other applications to write to the CD/DVD. 

If you do not have the direct write software (as above), you can still save the backup file to the CD/DVD by:

1. Make a backup to some temporary location on your hard drive (say c:\MyBackup ).

2. Copy the completed backup file to the CD using the software supplied with the Windows XP or the CD/DVD drive.

An excellent reference for XP users is: Burning CDs in Windows XP

 

How often should I do a backup?

We recommend the following:

Regular Backup - Make a backup regularly. You never know when you will need one. The AJSystems.com backup programs all include a reminder function for just this purpose.

Cycle the Backup - If you use re-recordable media (e.g., a zip disk) do not rely on one backup disk. Use a set of backup disks. For example, use three sets (labelled A, B, C). Make a backup on set A , then on set B, and then on set C. Restart again using set A, then B, etc. This way, if the media goes bad (not impossible at all), you still have the prior backup available.

Use CD if possible - CD's are inexpensive and, if handled properly, very reliable.

Keep the Backup Safe - The backup file (or at least one copy from a set) should be kept away from the computer, preferable off site. A backup disk that is in the computer that is stolen is not very much good.

Where should I save the Backup File?

The AJSystems.com backup programs will make a backup on most media available on your computer. This includes removable disk drives, fixed disk drives, CD or DVD Disks, and networked drives.

Removable Drives - Removable drives are typified by the venerable Iomega "ZIP" drive. Today, removable disks are more likely to be available as a USB drive. The USB 2.0 interface is reliable and very fast. 

USB Thumb Drives / Memory Sticks - Small memory based "drives" are available with reasonable capacities (e.g. 4gb).  These devices are relatively slow but may certainly be used as a backup device. NOTE - most "Memory Stick" devices have very low access speeds.  Saving to a "Memory Stick" can take 10 to 20 times as long as saving to a real disk.  All of our backup programs have an option to save the data to the main drive and then make a copy to a second location (i.e. make a copy to the "Memory Stick").  This should be done when using a slow device.

CD and DVD Disks - Most modern PC's include a CD or DVD writer.  The CD and DVD media is quite reliable - though slower than a removable disk drive. See the article How do I save the Backup to CD's or DVD's? for additional information.

Networked Drives - If you have multiple PC's you may also save the backup to a drive on another machine. We recommend that you create a mapped drive to the remote machine for this purpose.

Diskettes - While diskettes may be used, they are virtually obsolete and far from ideal. The capacity of a diskette is quite limited. However our backup files will allow the backup to 'span' multiple diskettes. In our experience, diskettes fail more often than other media. It appears as if the failure is directly related to the importance of the data on the diskette.

Regardless of the media chosen, we recommend that you try to use media which is large enough to accomodate the backup file in it's entirety if possible. This is not mandatory but it does make operations much easier. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eazy Backup

Eazy Backup \"How TO\'s\" and FAQ\'s

Can I view a file in the backup?

Q.  I have a backup which I saved to a CD-R disk.  How can I look at one document in the backup?

A.  In general, you can look at any document (or file) in the backup as long as the your machine has a program which will allow you to view the document (or file).  For example, you can view a "Word" document (.doc file) with Microsoft Word. 

To view a document (file) do the following:

  1. Run Eazy Backup
  2. Select "Restore"
  3. Browse to find the backup file (perhaps on your CD drive)
  4. Select the backup file and "Open" it
  5. After Eazy Backup loads the list showing the contents of the backup, find the file you wish to view. (Hint - type "ctrl + F" to bring up a search window to find the file.)
  6. Right click on the file (document) you wish to view.
  7. If the file (document) has an associated program (e.g., Word) you will see "Open With ......" (e.g., "Open with Word" ). Select this to view the file (document).

 

Eazy Backup Engine has stopped working

When starting Eazy Backup under Windows VistaTM, you may receive a messge like:
"Eazy Backup Engine has stopped working" -- as below:

       

See: "Data Execution Prevention" (DEP) in Windows Vista for more information.

How can I get the setup for a prior version of Eazy Backup

The setup file for the current version of Eazy Backup is always available from the Eazy Backup downloads page.

Setups for prior versions are available from:

If you have lost your product registration, please contact us. To expedite matters, please supply as much information as you can about your order.

How do I backup an Application that is not listed?

Q.  Eazy Backup includes backup and restore logic for a large number of applications.  But my favorite application is not listed.  How can I include the data for the new application?

A.  You can easily create a backup for any application if you know where the application stores the data.  You can usually see where the data is stored by observing the program when you do a "File" - "Save", or a "File" - "Open".

Once you know where the data is located, follow the instructions in the Eazy Backup "Help" documentation under "Personal Backup Definitions".   The first time you make a "Personal Backup Definition", the program will warn you that this is for advanced users.  It is not terribly difficult (assuming you take the time to read the Help documentation) and it is quite powerful.

If you need assistance, please send a note to support@ajsystems.com

 

How do I schedule the backup to run at night?

Q.  I want to run the backup at night when I am not using the machine. How is this done?

A.  Eazy Backup includes an easy-to-use Scheduler utility to run the backup anytime you like.  To setup a scheduler, do the following:

  1. Run Eazy Backup
  2. Go to the Eazy Backup menu "Tools" - "Schedule Backups"
  3. Enter the details for the schedule
  4. Save the schedule.

Note:  The scheduled can only be run if the machine is on and you are logged on at the scheduled time.  If the machine is not on, the scheduled backup will take place as soon as it can be done after the scheduled time.

How to close MailWasher Pro to do an unattended backup

MailWasher Pro may lock some files which will prevent the backup from continuing. 
 
Eazy Backup can be set to close, and optionally restart, MailWasher Pro as follows:
 
1 - run Eazy Backup
2 - Go to menu "Options" - "Close and Start Programs" (or menu "Tools" in Eazy Backup version 2).
3 - click "Add Item"
4 - enter:  Program Name:      MailWasher
               EXE Name:            MailWasher.exe
               Window Caption:    MailWasher Pro
5 - make sure that there is a check beside "Close....."
6 - Optionally check the "Start...."  box
7 - click "Save"
8 - Make sure that MailWasher is checked in the list of items
9 - Make sure that MailWasher is above Outlook in the list of items
10 - Click "Save All"
11 - Click "Close"
 
Then, when you do the backup - MailWasher will be closed
automatically to allow the backup to proceed.

How to easily backup "My Documents" without "My Pictures"

Eazy Backup contains pre-programmed logic to backup (and restore) your "My Documents" folder.   By default, "My Documents" contains the "My Pictures" folder as well. 

You can make a "Personal Backup Group" for "My Documents" without "My Pictures" as follows:

1 - run Eazy Backup

2 - click "Backup"

3 - select the "My Documents" group in the list of applications

4 - click "Clone Group"

5 - enter a name for the group (say: "MyDocs")

6 - enter a description (say: "My Documents - No Pictures")

7 - click "OK"

8 - click the "Include All Sub Folders" (at step 3 of this window)

9 - select "Exclude Selected Folders"

10 - a list of folders in "My Documents" will be shown - check the "My Pictures" folder.

11 - click "Apply" and "Apply"

You now have a new group to backup "My Documents" without the "My Pictures" folder.

 

How to easily backup "My Pictures" only

Eazy Backup contains pre-programmed logic to backup (and restore) your "My Documents" folder.   By default, "My Documents" contains the "My Pictures" folder as well.  You can make a "Personal Backup Group" for My Picutres as follows:

1 - run Eazy Backup

2 - click "Backup"

3 - select the "My Documents" group in the list of applications

4 - click "Clone Group"

5 - enter a name for the group (say "My Pictures")

6 - enter a description (likely also "My Pictures")

7 - click "OK"

8 - click the "Include All Sub Folders" (at step 3 of this window)

9 - select "Include Selected Folders"

10 - a list of folders in "My Documents" will be shown - check the "My Pictures" folder.

11 - click "Apply" and "Apply"

You now have a new group to backup just the "My Pictures" folder.

NOTE: - You should NOT do a backup including the "My Documents" group and the "My Pictures" group as the "My Pictures" folder would show twice.

 

 

Express Assist

Express Assist Specific FAQ\'s

Can I install Express Assist on two computers?

Q. Can Express Assist be loaded on two computers to allow for keeping both computers OE files alike without purchasing a second EA program?

A.  Yes - you are allowed to install Express Assist on two computers, for your personal use, for a single license fee.

See http://ajsystems.com/eapurchfaq.html for additional information on purchases.

 

Do I have to uninstall an older version of Express Assist (EA) before upgrading to EA 9

Express Assist 9 is a completely new program.  It wil not interfere with the older versions of Express Assist (e.g.,  EA 5, EA 6, EA 7 or EA 8).

We suggest that users of Express Assist 5, 6, 7 or 8 do the following

  1. Download the setup file for Express Assist 8 from:(http://ajsystems.com/files/ea9setup.exe)
  2. Save the ea9setup file to any folder you wish
  3. Run the ea9setup to install Express Assist 8.
  4. Run Expresss Assist 9 -- EA 9 will read and restore from EA 5, EA 6 EA 7 and EA 8 backup files.
  5. When you are comfortable with EA 9 - then uninstall the older version.

Express Assist 9 has stopped working

When starting Express Assist under Windows VistaTM, you may receive a messge like:
"Express Assist 9 has stopped working" -- as below:

       

See: "Data Execution Prevention" (DEP) in Windows Vista for more information.

How can I get a setup for an older version of Express Assist

The setup files for the older versions of Express Assist are available at:

How to transfer Outlook Express mail to Vista

Windows Vista is supplied with a new mail program "Windows Mail" (WM) which is similar to "Outlook Express" (OE).  WM uses a completely different method for the storage of the email messages.  You may transfer OE mail messages to WM as follows:

1 - install Express Assist 9 (EA9) on the machine running Outlook Express (XP, W98, etc)

2 - make a backup copy of the OE mail folders on the OE machine

3 - copy the backup file from step 2 to the Vista machine (or to some media that can be read on the Vista machine).

4 - install EA9 on the Vista machine

5 - run EA9 -- click "Restore"

6 - locate the backup from step 3 and "open" it.

7 - choose restore option "Restore all email folders for import"

8 - select all of the items in the Outlook Express "Identity"

9 - click "Restore Now" -- the program will place a copy of the mail from the OE machine into a folder in your "Documents" folder in Vista. It will also then show a step-by-step instruction on how to import the mail into Windows Mail on Vista.

Note: the import process will place the OE mail folders under an  "Imported Folder".  That is, the OE Inbox messages will not appear in the WM Inbox, etc.   This is not a bug in EA9.  This is just how Windows Mail handles the import.

How to transfer the Windows Address Book to Vista

Windows Vista is supplied with a new mail program "Windows Mail" (WM) which is similar to "Outlook Express" (OE). 
 On Windows Vista the "Windows Address Book" (WAB) has also been replaced with "Windows Contacts" (WC).  You may transfer WAB contacts to WC as follows:

1 - install Express Assist 9 (EA9) on the machine running Outlook Express (XP, W98, etc)

2 - make a backup copy of the WAB.  Note - the WAB is contained within the EA9 "Windows Files" backup group.

3 - copy the backup file from step 2 to the Vista machine (or to some media that can be read on the Vista machine).

4 - install EA9 on the Vista machine

5 - run EA9 -- click "Restore"

6 - locate the backup from step 3 and "open" it.

7 - choose restore option "Restore or View Data Files"

8 - locate the WAB (in the "Windows Files" backup group).

9 - check the WAB to be restored

9 - click "Restore Now" -- the program will place a copy of the WAB from the OE machine into a folder in your "Documents" folder in Vista. It will also then show a step-by-step instruction on how to import the WAB into Windows Contacts on Vista

Will EA 9 restore backups made with earlier versions of EA?

Express Assist 9 will restore from backups made by any prior version of Express Assist as long as the backup contains data from Outlook Express 5 or newer (OE 5.0, 5.5, or 6.x).

Will Express Assist work with IE7?

IE7 is a bit of a departure from prior versions of IE.  With IE7 there is no new version of Outlook Express. In fact, IE7 does not include a version of Outlook Express at all.   If IE7 is installed on an XP (or earlier) system, Outlook Express is not affected.
 
IE7 was originally intended to be released only on the new Vista system but Microsoft decided to release it more widely.
 
Express Assist 7, 8, and 9 (EA7, EA8 and EA9) will work with the new IE7.  The IE7 data is the same as used in IE 5 and 6.
 
Windows VistaTM has a new mail program to replace Outlook Express.  (OE 6 is the last version of OE). The new mail program is called (conveniently) "Windows Mail".  "Windows Mail" is similar to Outlook Express (on the surface) but quite different "under the hood".
 
Express Assist 9 (see: http://ajsystems.com/ea9details.html ) is designed to work with "Windows Mail" and with "Outlook Express".

OE Quick Tools

OE Quick Tools 4 Specific FAQ\'as

"Send Again" & "Templates" functions stop working

The "Send Again" function and the "Templates" function of OE Quick Tools will stop functioning when the Microsoft Security Update KB911567 dated 11 April 2006 is installed.

Microsoft released a HotFix for this issue on May 31, 2006 (see: http://support.microsoft.com/?id=918766)

The article above requires the download of a HotFix plus a modification of the system Registry.

If you are using an English version of Windows, the HotFix plus the Registry modification can be done at one time as follows:

  1. Download the setup file from: http://ajsystems.com/files/ApplyHotFix918766.exe
  2. Save the ApplyHotFix918766 file to any folder
  3. Run the ApplyHotFix918766  This will install the Microsoft HotFix and apply the required registry fix.

Note:

If you are not using the English version of Windows - do as follows:

  1. Download the language specific update from the links on web page: http://support.microsoft.com/?id=918766
  2. Save the Microsoft setup file to any folder
  3. Run the Microsoft setup to update the system
  4. Download the registry update from: http://ajsystems.com/files/XUNSENT.reg
  5. Save the XUNSENT.reg file to any folder
  6. Double Click on the XUNSENT file to enter the setting into the registry.

 

Quick Tools is "Hidden"

OE Quick Tools has an option to Hide the Quick Tools Panel and another to hide the Quick Tools icon.  If you accidentally hide everything,  the Quick Tools functions that do not require the Quick Tools "Panel" will still be available but you will not see the program.
 
To resolve this issue:
 
1 - download the small program from: http://ajsystems.com/xfiles/QT4Reset.exe
 
2 - save the QT4Reset program to any folder.
 
3 - run the QT4Reset program
 
4 - restart the computer.

OutBack Plus

OutBack Plus specific FAQ\'s

How can I get the setup for a prior version of OutBack Plus

p>The setup file for the current version of OutBack Plus is always available from the OutBack Plus downloads page.

 

Setups for prior versions are available from:

If you have lost your product registration, please contact us. To expedite matters, please supply as much information as you can about your order.

OutBack Plus has stopped working

When starting OutBack Plus under Windows VistaTM, you may receive a messge like:
"OutBack Plus has stopped working".

See: "Data Execution Prevention" (DEP) in Windows Vista for more information.

Why does Microsoft Messenger start when the OutBack Plus backup is complete?

This means that Windows Messenger was running before the backup started and OutBack Plus is  just restarting it.
 
Microsoft sets the Windows Messenger to start automatically when your machine starts.
You probably don\'t even know it is running.
 
You can tell OutBack Plus to not restart it as follows:
 
1 - Go to the OBP menu "Tools" - "Close and Start Programs"
2 - select the Windows Messenger item
3 - choose "Properties"
4 - remove the check from "Start...."
5 - do "Save" and "Save All"

Will OutBack Plus work with IE7?

The new IE7 uses the same underlying data (favorites, etc) as was used in prior versions of IE (IE5 and IE6).

OutBack Plus (all versions) will work fine with IE7.  OutBack Plus can transfer IE data from a machine running IE6 to a machine running IE7 (and vice-versa).

PrintScreenWorks

Print Screen Works specific questions

Is this the SilverLakeTech PrintScreenWorks program?

Question: I am a registered user of PrintScreen Works ver. 5.6.2, which used to be made by Silverlake Tech, who have apparently gone out of business. Did you inherit or purchase (or whatever) that product from them? If so, what is the current version. How can I get an upgrade?

Answer: The original PrintScreenWorks software was developed by AJSystems.  It was marketed by SilverlakeTech until they ceased to operate.  We continue to market and support the program.  The current version is 6.5

You may upgrade to the current version as follows:

1 - click the link below to download the setup program: http://ajsystems.com/files/pswsetup.exe 

2 - Choose to save the install program to some location on your disk - possibly "My Documents"  or your Desktop.

3 - After the download is complete - open the folder you chose in step 2.

4 -  Run the install program  pswetup.exe  (Do not uninstall your current program)
 
Your current program registration will continue to work.

There is no charge for the update.

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