Aperture library vs separate folders (+Backup)

Hey,

I recently had some problems with my computer.
It was the graphics card and it's fixed now, luckily it was covered by my home insurance.

Anyway, after I got it back from the repair, I decided to do a clean install and only restore the stuff I really want. (some how I managed to fill the whole 500Gb over the years)
I'm now in the process of importing old photos from my time machine backup, since I don't want a complete restore.

Going forward, I don't want to use the timemachine function anymore, I just want to have the important files backed up neatly in folders and files. That way I can also access the files through my iphone or remotely via any other computer. The backup HD is also a NAS.

What are the differences between having the Aperture photo library as folders & pictures (a lá iTunes with it's music library) in the photos directory vs having a single library file? Does it affect speed?

If there is some noticeable affect on performance by choosing a single library file, can I some how (automatically) backup the photos from the library file in to folders and files on the backup HD?

If there is no difference, then basically I would like to have the photos stored in folders on my computer and then somehow automatically backed-up to the external HD, periodically. Is there some program for this?

Any input would be much appreciated. Thanks!

 

I did some searching on the forum, and read this: http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=975670

It seems the storing the library off the main HD might actually speed up Aperture. At least if you have the external HD hooked up through fast cables. But what about Wifi? I have a Lacie Network Space 2. I think my Wifi network speed is 200MB/s. Something to think about?

 

I kept looking a came across SyncTwoFolders.. which seems like the perfect thing for the job.

Unless it actually matters whether the library is stored as single file or a collection of folders based on the projects/events. I'm guessing there has to be some reason why Apple has chosen the library file as the default setting for both iPhoto and Aperture?

If that is the case, then I'd need something to access the library file and just store the individual folders and files on the external HD.