Time machine files

[gfree]

Not new to macs but a question about time machine:

Can you have the time machine backups along side misc files on the same external hard drive? like music, videos etc?

If yes, Is there an easy way to copy time machine backup files from a small external hard drive to a bigger one. (that will already have existing media files on it, so overwriting is not possible)

Thanks

 

[jmann]

I have done it. But I don't know if it is recommended. You can always partion the hard drive, and change the size of the partion at anytime if you need more room.

 

[gr8tfly]

You can use the drive normally, but I would recommend adding a 2nd partition for general use. It'll make it easier if you have to move the Time Machine backup to a different drive (gives you the option of a full partition restore copy).

Theoretically, you should be able to drag the "Backups.backupdb" folder to another drive - I haven't done it that way, though. I keep the TM backup on its own partition, then use Disk Utility Restore, "erase destination" - which enabled block copy (MUCH faster).

The new drive must be formatted HFS+ (Mac OS Extented (journaled) and use either GUID or APM partition maps (if you have an Intel Mac, I'd recommend GUID, in case you want boot off the drive in the future).