Need Time Machine and Time Capsule Advice

I'm planning to purchase a Time Capsule to use with Time Machine on our two computers. Only planning to backup the Home folders on each-only about 8 gigs on both. My main purpose is to backup our photo and music libraries along with some other files. My reasoning is that if a hard drive fails or a logic board gets replaced, which has already happened on one machine, I would be able to restore all those files to either a repaired computer or perhaps a new one if one gets replaced.
However I've been reading a few posts that seem to indicate that in those instances Time Machine may be unable to restore those files because it doesn't recognize the changed board/hard drive/new computer. Is this correct? And if it is could I use Time Capsule as just an external drive and back up those files manually using another method other than Time Machine? We have a .Mac/Me.com account and use the Backup program occasionally so that could possibly do what I want.
Thanks for any advice,
John

Pappasbike wrote:
I'm planning to purchase a Time Capsule to use with Time Machine on our two computers. Only planning to backup the Home folders on each-only about 8 gigs on both. My main purpose is to backup our photo and music libraries along with some other files. My reasoning is that if a hard drive fails or a logic board gets replaced, which has already happened on one machine, I would be able to restore all those files to either a repaired computer or perhaps a new one if one gets replaced.
I would strongly recommend you let it back up EVERYTHING on your computer. That is the purpose of TM, and that is how it works best.
However I've been reading a few posts that seem to indicate that in those instances Time Machine may be unable to restore those files because it doesn't recognize the changed board/hard drive/new computer. Is this correct?
You should be able to restore fine, the issue is with continuing the same backup set--and that's ONLY after a logic board change. There are steps (see: http://www.macosxhints.com/article.php?story=20080128003716101 ) you can take to fix this fairly easily, though.
And if it is could I use Time Capsule as just an external drive and back up those files manually using another method other than Time Machine? We have a .Mac/Me.com account and use the Backup program occasionally so that could possibly do what I want.
You could, but TM is a MUCH simpler solution.
Good luck!
Message was edited by: joshz

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Do I need time capsule hardware to run time machine?

Do I need time capsule hardware to run time machine?
I have a Mac Mini and a non-Apple 2TB sitting on a wifi network at home. Can I run Time Machine to backup from Mac Mini to non-Apple 2TB drive?

Kappy wrote:
No. All you need is an external drive connected to the computer. But, Time Machine does not work on any NAS except the Time Capsule.
Not quite.. it will work on a NAS that has Time Machine Extensions.. many do.. the big brands.. Synology, QNAP, Netgear, etc.. and even some small one, I am using a cheapie made by zyxel works fine..
But some like buffalo have no updates to later versions of OSX.. Apple dramatically changed the way Lion handles AFP in network disks.. so plenty of companies had to release updates.
See this for setup info.
http://code.stephenmorley.org/articles/time-machine-on-a-network-drive/

Need Time Capsule to join new existing network after Uverse box swap SSID

When I first bought my Time Capsule it was creating my wireless network.
Then last year we moved to a new house, and got Uverse service. I successfully changed Time Capsule's config to join the existing Uverse network, so the TC does backup and nothing else. (The Uverse box is in the basement, so the TC connects to that network and all client machines over the Uverse wifi.)
Now I just had problems with Uverse (lost voice service, and so they swapped their box, which means I have a new SSID (and password). So I need to change the config of the TC to join the different existing network. I've tried connecting an Ethernet cable to both the WAN and other-Ethernet ports on the back of the TC, but the Airport Utility on that desktop still doesn't recognize the TC.
What do I do?

Welcome to the discussions!
The problem is that the ethernet ports on the TC are not enabled when it "joins", so that type of connection between your computer and the TC won't work.
The other issue is that the TC is remembering the old wireless network and you can't access it that way any longer.
You'll need to perform a "hard reset" on the TC by holding in the reset button until the amber light blinks more quickly, then reconfigure the device using the settings from the new wireless network.
This will not affect your existing backups, but you will need to reset Time Machine to point it as the Time Capsule again.
Open System Preferences
Click Time Machine
Click Select Disk
Click your Time Capsule
Click Use for Backups
Message was edited by: Bob Timmons

Wireless music player with Time Capsule :advice sought

Hi,
All my music files in my iTunes library are stored on my Time Capsule.
I would like to purchase a wireless music player (Squeezebox or similar, not Mac TV) that could directly access and play the music stored on my Time Capsule, without the need for Mac Book to be switched on. From the few wireless music players I have looked at, I get the impression (possibly false) that I would need the music player's client software installed on the Mac Book to serve the music to the player, which implies that the Mac Book needs to be switched on when the music player is in use (correct/false??)
Can any one please give me some advice here? Is my understanding correct? Is there a simple way to configure my wireless network to allow a music player to play files directly from the Time Capsule? Can you recommend a particular music player that would allow me to do this?

I would expect exactly what you are getting.
Wireless is not going to transfer real world speeds higher than about link speed divided by 3, maybe even 4.
Find your link speed. Hold down the option key and click the wireless fan in the top menu area.
Take the transmit rate and divide by 3..
You should realise that wireless is limited by Apple to 130Mbps at 2.4ghz although in newer equipment you can achieve 217Mbps.
For 5ghz the speed will be 450Mbps in the same room but drops off quickly.. the above shot is with the TC in the next room.. max link speed dropped from 450 to 162 as drop off at 5ghz is very rapid.

Need time capsule help..

when I enter time machine, I click on pictures and nothing is there. Isnt this thing suppose to upload on the time capsule when you add new items? I have 13,000 pics that do not show up.

Based on lthe information in your post, the best connection method would be to connect to your Linksys router using an ethernet cable. Connect from one of the available LAN <-> ports on the Linksys to the WAN (circle of dots icon) port on the Time Capsule
You will be able to backup over the existing Linksys wireless network and also connect directly to the ethernet ports on either the Linksys or Time Capsule if you want to perform a backup using ethernet, which will be much faster than wireless.
What I am not clear on is whether you want to configure the Time Capsule to provide a wireless network, which it is capable of doing, or whether you do not need this function.
Post back with a few more details and let us know if you need a step by step guide to get things going.
Also: had my Macbook repaired, and they backed up all info on the Time Capsule I purchased. But they didn't need to replace hard drive/memory, so when I go to backup the laptop, will this file show up, and can i just delete it?
If you don't need the data on the Time Capsule drive, you would want to erase the disk before you perform your first backup of the Mac(s). There's a procedure for that as well. Let us know if you need it.

DVD collection, ATV?, Time Capsule, Advice what to buy?

Hello all.
I am brand spanking new in here and spent the better part of an evening searching through the forums for help. I did not find much, so I have opted for posting a thread in here. Allot of you seem to like to help, here's your chance..;-)
To start simply; I want to be able to rip all my DVD's to a big HD and stream to my TV. Question?
1. Buy a 1 TB time capsule + ATV and stream to my TV.
2. Buy a 1 TB time capsule and stream via my Itunes / Laptop / Wifi.
3. Third option...your suggestions.
I know the information is limited, but I would like your input before I post follow up questions.
Look forwards to your replies and help.
Thanks Sittingduck2nd

Sittingduck2nd wrote:
Well thank you for all your comments. Lots of information to chew on.
Yes I am aware of all the formats supported. So this has been taken into account.
I know the conversion process is time consuming, but hey that's what the night is for.
I agree you can run the conversions overnight or when you're at work etc, and even though it takes a while to convert files you can't watch more than 1 at the same time, so if you start with things you're liklely to watch soon rather than things you've seen recently...you get the drift..
But I am only trying to find a hardware solution that is the simplest as well as affordable.
So a followup question could be; can I attach a Ex.HD to my ATV and then access it that way via my laptop/Itunes?
Just to clarify - do you have a wired/wireless router or just the laptop and say a USB modem?
AppleTV really needs it's own connection to a router for internet authorisations etc - you might get away with internet connection sharing via the laptop but i've never tried that.
I believe I have to setup my itunes to see that storage location to access it. But again I am not sure.
Yes - you add things to iTunes - the files can either just be referenced in the iTunes library an dlive in a number of locations or they can all be copied into your iTunes library folder depending on iTunes preferences. Best solution for me is an external USB drive connected to my iMac which is the library location and holds a copy of anything I to it - you can mix and match some files referenced some files copied if you like.
I'd urge you to go down the external USB drive route connected to the Vista machine if possible, as although NAS drives work, it's all very hit and miss if your network is slow/flaky because the data path from file location to iTunes to AppleTv across the network is generally slower/more complex. AppleTV cannot use external storage via USB - diagnostic port only.
It might be worth considering the larger AppleTV if mainly running from a laptop so at least a good proportion of stuff is available if the laptop is elsewhere - depends on domestic arrangements really eg who else will use, how often is laptop away from house etc etc
Also - a final note - I wouldn't buy an AppleTV new until at least this time next week - there's expected to be a product launch for new ipods (there's an Apple Event anyway) next Tuesday. I'd be surprised if AppleTV is updated but you never know as it's 18 months old or more now.
If looking for a cheap solution you might want to kee an eye on the Apple refurb store where occasionally AppleTVs can be picked up refurbished for about £135 for the 40GB with a year's warranty.
AC

Time Capsule advice please...

Hi,
I need a back up solution but would like any thoughts before I go ahead.
I'm thinking of buying a Time Capsule, I want it to back up all of my files from my internal HD, I work alot with video and for this purpose I have 2 external hard drives connected to my MacBP.
Is a Time Capsule the best solution for what I want to do...
1.Back up Internal HD
2.Back up selected folders only from my external drives(not including video files as they will take up too much space)
3. I want to move my itunes music separately to Time Capsule(& delete from internal drive) so as to free up space on my internal drive as it's almost full. Is this a good idea as I cannot partition Time Capsule? The reason I would choose Time Capsule over a normal external drive is so I can access the drive from anywhere with an internet connection without having to bring external drive with me...
Are there any problems with using TC as a storage space aswell as in conjunction with time machine?
Is it easy to delete backups from TC when they are say 3 months old and only keep your last months backups as too not fill the TC with months of un-needed backups?
Would love to hear your thoughts and any other recommendations...
Cheers!

You mean when I go into Time Machine on my Mac, that drive won't show up in the drives to include/omit section?
Yes, that is correct.
I guess I'm kind of baffled that the Time Capsule is billed as this great backup device, but can't back up the drive that's connected directly to it.
Yes, I would have to agree to that as well. It would be reasonable to expect that it could, but I guess the design goal was aimed more to making it easier for folks to back up their computers as seamless as possible.
Can you recommend a better solution for what I'm trying to accomplish?
Two that come to mind are solutions based on either Microsoft's Windows Home Server or FreeNAS, but either of these would require additional hardware. Both however support Time Machine backups.

Time Capsule advice, HELP!!

Folks,
I got an iomega 500gb ULTRAMAX external hdd from apple store last week. it is too noisy and has bad reviews now i have checked...
1) should i upgrade to a time capsule 500gb, which costs double the price of the iomega? is it worth it?
2) do i "have" to use the TC as my wireless router? i already have one...
3) i will connect TC to my mac, which is wirelessly connected to the internet.
if i then connect a printer to my mac/TC setup, can my PC print wirelessly from the other room?
many thanks in advance...

"should i upgrade to a time capsule 500gb, which costs double the price of the iomega? is it worth it?"
all depends upon how you are going to use the device. I don't really use TC for Time Machine backups, its too slow but I have and successfully. I do use it as a network storage device to transfer files among my computers and family members. I also use it over the internet to get or put files when I'm out of state , ie away from my home network. I use it for ethernet on my home network and wireless.

I need time capsule help...

Just purchased a 2T Time Capsule (4th gen), and I can back up my new mac when the time capsule is connected to my DSL modem with an ethernet cable, but not otherwise, and the light is still flashing amber. I want to also back up my old HP laptop. HELP! I have set up the network name, and the capsule name, but it will not work unplugged, and that blinking light is driving me nuts, because that's supposed to mean it's not working. I really don't want to have to return this item.

Is your local network using WPA security? If so, then you need to provide the wireless configuration in the Time Capsule with the wireless network's name and login password. You do this using Airport Utility in the Utilities folder.
Does your AT&T modem provide both wired and wireless networks? You can configure the Time Capsule's Wireless setup to Join the wireless network your AT&T device has created. You need to know the name of the wireless network and the password you use to connect to it.

Do I need Time Capsule for my back up needs?

In my office, I have an iMac 24" 10.5.5. My secretary uses a PC and the server is a PC. At home, I use my Macbook, and my wife and kids each have laptops (4 of them total).
I want to make sure I 'back up' everything properly at the office and at home. Is there a way to backup both onto a single deal like Time Capsule? Or do I have to have two separate units? Is Time Capsule a wireless backup, or does it have to be connected to the computer you want to backup?
Help!
Bob

The Time Capsule is not really meant to used as a portable device, so it would have to be kept in a single location. Presumably this single location would be at your office where your iMac is. The only problem with one location is that your MacBook would only backed up when (or if) it's at your office. And I don't know if that happens and/or if you're away from your office for extended periods would that be acceptable (to not have a backup during that time).
Both computers could backup to one Time Capsule assuming there is enough disk space to do so and I'm unaware of how large the hard drives are that you have in each computer. And the Time Capsule can backup devices over both wired and wireless connections.

Still need Time Capsule when iCloud becomes available?

My 500GB TC is full. Planning to buy new MBP. Wondering if I should also buy a new TC. Also wondering whether iCloud will replace TC for backups.

It's my impression that iCloud isn't intended to back up everything on a Mac. If that's right, you wouldn't be able to restore your Mac from iCloud. Even if you could, it might take days.

Newbie mc user, needs basic .wmv and DivX file advice

Hi,
first post here, new mac user of only 1 month standing! Sorry to display such ignorance...
er... what software do I need to play .wmv (I presume that will need some form of conversion) and DivX media files on my mac??
sorry if this is totally basic stuff, but any help would be most gratefully received!

A company called Flip4mac makes a free WMV component for Quicktime. (Which means that after you install it, Quicktime can play WMV files.)
Divx has a similar component for Quicktime, which is also free.
A great source for finding this kind of thing is http://www.versiontracker.com/
A quick search there for divx and wmv will take you right to the programs you need.

Do i need airport extreme and time capsule?

I'm confused. Do I need Time Capsule and Airport? I want to back up and I want to have wireless to my ipad, iphone and apple TV.

Both devices are routers. The major difference is that the Time Capsule has a built in hard disk drive and the Extreme doesn't. Both support adding external USB hard drives or printers, however, only the TC can be used for Time Machine backups. Based on what you are trying to do and the equipment that you have, I would recommend the TC.

Time Capsule does not wirelessly connect to wireless cable modem gateway

I am trying to get Time capsule to act as what I think is supposed to be a wireless bridge (Apple retail employee's advice) to enable an old G4 iMac upstairs to have wireless ("Airport") online access from the wifi cable modem downstairs. I can get everything to work when I run ethernet cable down the stairs but avoiding that is exactly why I bought the Time Capsule.
I thought time capsule was a wireless device! how do I get it to speak to the gateway?? Right now it is blinking amber slowly.
Havent tried yet but I would ideally like to run time machine back up of my Macbook pro, from wherever I am, upstairs or downstairs.

Thanks everyone. My understanding is that the time capsule needs to be hard wired to the gateway , not what apple retail store "genius" told me. I really wanted to wifi-enable the stranded G4 (and thus access the laserwriter 8500 cabled to it) upstairs.
-- now I'm re-reading bob timmons' remark, and wondering: i don't think I need time capsule to be a router, do I? I just need it to connect to the G4 with a cable, and receive wifi from the gateway ( ... and do time machine backups). I really only need one ethernet port, and the wifi connectivity.
so on a whim I had also ordered a airport express, thinking it would be fun to get iTunes on an old stereo system. Now I think I need it to do the job of wifi-enabling the upstairs G4 instead. Just came this afternoon. We'll see if this allows me to get rid of the ethernet cable mess.
But first I will try to (restore factory defaults, and then) reconfigure to "join" an existing wifi network (which so far is just the macbook pro and the cable modem gateway). My confidence level that this will work: poor.

How do I get Time Capsule to back up an external hard drive?

I need Time Capsule/Time Machine to back up my external hard drive. How do I do this?

The external drive is plugged into the Mac??
Just open the Time Machine preferences, Options, and include the external drive.. done!! (The menu is exclude.. so just ensure it is not excluded.. don't use no double negatives.. is grammar rule apple could learn).
You cannot backup the external drive if plugged into the TC directly.

Need Time Machine and Time Capsule Advice

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