This chapter, then, is to inform you how to prevent losing information when something you’ve done—or not done properly—occurs. The main problem Mac users come across is not properly backing-up (if at all) those important files.

Here’s some general yet helpful hints you might consider next time you multi-task and lose those critical dossiers.

What’s the number one way to avoid a Mac (or self) meltdown?

Before you throw yourself or your Mac to the fire, you should take two precautionary steps: A.) Keep liquids away from the keyboard of either a desk- or lap-top computer. B.) Be sure to backup all your important files in at least two exterior locations. Let’s start with “A.).” For “B.),” see the questions and discussion below.

The distinct reason people not only lose their data but also their computer is because of spillage. Spillage can be any liquid not intentionally spilled onto your computer. Spillage can range from morning coffee, lunchtime tea, and after-dinner spirits to baby’s solid burp turned spit-up bile. The possibilities and despondent stories of a Mac’s demise are always endless and never mild.

AppleCare won’t really AptlyCare all that much if you destroy your computer with spillage. If spillage befalls your Mac, here’s what you can do:

Be quick! Unplug your computer immediately. Shut it down and remove the battery from the back. Turn it upside down for at least 24 hours. This may keep the liquid from reaching the internal parts.

Some people suggest using a hairdryer while others say this is a bad idea. In either case, keep the computer off for at least a day to avoid the backup battery from corroding and ruining your Mac’s internal hardware. It may be smart to take it to a Mac support store for diagnosis after such an incident.

How do I avoid future problems?

Now, we’re getting to “B.)” and backing up. The best way to avoid future problems is to follow the ACT plan. The document can be an Excel or Numbers spreadsheet, a Word or Pages letter, or even a Power Point or Key Note presentation.

A – Keep your file(s) in Another location. In fact, keep them saved in at least two other locations, both on your computer and a removable disk. If you have an online Apple account, you can upload and save files here. Emailing files to your self is a nice way to access the document(s) anywhere, anytime. This can become tedious, however, after some time.

C – If you’re in the middle of writing a document, be sure to Constantly back it up: in the beginning, middle and end. You never know when baby Jessie will upchuck her lunch of mashed sweet potatoes. Back up copies of your back ups as well.

T – Make several copies of the Type of document you want to save. Save the files as architect-plans-1.doc and architect-plans-2.doc and save them on your desktop and your documents folder, for example. Use an external hard drive whenever possible.

How do I best backup my important documents?

A CD or removable flash drive is at least an attempt at storing your files elsewhere. Making copies is a fine idea, but make sure to also keep the previous files even though you’re backing up the newer ones. That is, be sure to save the previous file just in case the newly updated one is corrupted. You’ll conceivable want to go back to the first one before the corruption occurred.

Where should I store my already backed-up important files?

Apple makes some handy gadgets to back up your hard drive. Have a look at your local Apple store or the Apple website. One of the latest gadgets is a simply external hard drive that automatically backs up your files when you plug in the USB cable. Everything that has been added or deleted is automatically updated. That’s easy.

Or, a normal external hard drive works almost as well, giving you control of what is added to it or deleted and therefore updated.

Time Machine is a great tool too. However, it’s intended for finding files that you’ve changed but would like to see the erstwhile versions. It should not be considered a back up or an archive for important files.

How often should I “spring clean” my Mac’s directories and drives?

You might “spring clean” your computer about once a month or every other month. Run Apple’s Disk Utility to repair any directories that might have been damaged. Be sure, of course, to back up all your files: ACT!

Moreover, use antiviral software frequently and be sure to use the updated versions. This is a simple process, sure to clean up any viruses that might be burrowing around.

Great! Is there anything else I should know from the experts?

Save all your disks and serial numbers in a safe and unified location. Don’t download shoddy files labeled “free” from the Internet that you normally should pay for.

Choose shareware that has demonstrated wide user use with written reviews. You can check forums for updates and comments.

Additionally, buy software and hardware directly from the official online stores or Apple stores and dealers. Shoddy programs can kill your Mac faster than any spillage that might seep from any one of little Jesse’s orifices.

Jeff Graber is CEO of the [url=http://www.macsupportstore.com]Mac Support Store[/url], a Mac consulting-support company. Since 1996, he’s led the company to consult and support over 17,000 Macintosh computers for business clients. Graber’s columns appear whenever the spirit moves him

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