File Backup & Synchronization

[zimok]

What file synchronization do you guys use?

How I work: My master copy is a USB, everything I've ever done in relation to AM is on it. I also work from 5 different computers(3 of which have a copy of the USB files). I'd like to be able to sit at any of the computers, and have the program tell me which files have changed, and when. I'd like the option to manually approve those changes to the master copy (the USB), or vice versa if I worked on a PC.

I'm looking for something along these lines,

1. Runs on XP
2. 2 way synchronization (PC <-> USB).
3. Open Source (or trustworthy freeware)
4. Bonus if it's a portable app (runs off USB)
5. Double Bonus if it checks file integrity (checksum)
6. Triple Bonus if it's as easy to use as windows "explorer"

I've searched this forum(no good results), and google(too many results, half of them look like they want to piggyback a zango toolbar). I don't have any experience in the area, but it's becoming too time consuming to keep track of everything manually.

Appreciate your input guys.

 

[xRAVExHEAVENx]

BackupPC: Open Source Backup to disk

Haven't tried it but hosted by Sourceforge and looks promising.

 

[quaffapint]

Did you ever think of using a change control repository? I know you aren't necessarily storing code or anything, but setting up something like a simple subversion repository and using a simple windows explorer integrated tool like TortoiseSVN might meet at least some of your needs.

You could then track your changes, synchronize between computers - It's free and open source.

Here's a page over at CodeProject with nice step-by-step instructions I used to setup my repository - It works wonders for my needs...
CodeProject: Version Control for the Standalone Programmer - Part 1. Free source code and programming help

Just a thought...

 

[zimok]

BackupPC: Open Source Backup to disk

Haven't tried it but hosted by Sourceforge and looks promising.

At work right now and for some reason I can't access this. I'll check from home in a bit..

Did you ever think of using a change control repository? I know you aren't necessarily storing code or anything, but setting up something like a simple subversion repository and using a simple windows explorer integrated tool like TortoiseSVN might meet at least some of your needs.

You could then track your changes, synchronize between computers - It's free and open source.

Here's a page over at CodeProject with nice step-by-step instructions I used to setup my repository - It works wonders for my needs...
CodeProject: Version Control for the Standalone Programmer - Part 1. Free source code and programming help

Just a thought...

It does have some of the features I wish for, and even looks like what I have in mind..

but modifying my explorer with add-ons and installing software which fits an entire other purpose leaves me... wanting something more simple? I'll definitely give it a shot if a better alternative doesn't pop up.

 

[gary.b]

+1 for SVN. The way to go for what you mention. Only thing missing from your list is the portability.. not sure about that one.