I want to use disk utility

[jbednarz22]

I want to use disk utility to make back up my laptop to an external drive.

1) can i make a 'bootable' copy on that drive if i already have stuff on it (ie its not partitioned or split at all)
1a) if i do need to partition it, can i do so without wiping the drive clean (the storage 320 while my mac only has 150)
2) how do i do this? (link / tutorial? i couldn't find a youtube video)

 

[appleraj]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjp0xtj_LRY

 

[jbednarz22]

okay but i didnt just ask for a link. i had questions. thanks for ignoring them.

 

[Comeagain?]

Yes, you need to partition to make a bootable drive. Yes, you can do so without removing the data from the drive. Just select the drive in disk utility and hit partition at the top. That will have on screen instructions you can follow.

A better option would be to use Time Machine. It won't require you to partition anything, and can update itself automatically. It will also allow you to migrate that information over if you get a new Mac easily.

 

[GGJstudios]

A better option would be to use Time Machine.

But TM can't make a bootable backup.