Backing up MacNail Estimating

NOTE-- We retired MacNail estimating in 2000, and replaced it with Goldenseal construction estimating software. There are still die-hard MacNail users, so we keep the manuals online for their use! Goldenseal is an integrated program that also includes accounting, scheduling and contract writing features.

Backing Up MacNail Estimating Software

Make at least one copy of the original MacNail construction estimating software disks before using them. Always run from a copy--never from the original disks. Carefully store the master disks--they are your backup. If you ever accidentally damage a file, or have disk problems, you will be glad to have a clean copy to fall back on.

Storing Your Backups

Backup disks should stay cool, dry, and away from magnetic fields of any kind. For best results, keep them away from electrical devices (including the sides and top of your computer, hard disk and printer!).

Backing Up Your Work

Make backups of your project estimates as you create them with MacNail. Your data is precious! Once you have stored inactive estimates on a floppy disk, you can remove them from your hard disk.

A Second Backup

Remember that hard disks have an average lifetime of three or four years--and they sometimes have data loss during normal operation. How much information are you willing to lose if your disk decides to die this week?

Consider a second backup copy for all important files. Store it off-premises for protection against fire, theft, or other calamities. The cost of a floppy disk is many times less than the cost of the information that is on it!