Suggested Windows (XP) setup by infinityloop (2 Viewers)

[vur]

Could I have some clarification re infintyloops great "Suggested Windows Setup" GeneralUserGuides/Installation_WinXP_MediaPortal - MediaPortal Manual Documentation I have recently done my first ever Clean re-install of XP and am keen to have a good system.

It is suggested for a system with two hard disks, where disk 1 is partitioned as C: and D: that TeamMP be installed on D:
Then " If you use 2 harddisks you should create an image of both C: and D:. If possible burn the image on a DVD. "
It is suggested for a system with one hard disk which is partitioned as C: and D: that TeamMP also be installed on D:
But it states " 6.Create a new image of your C: partition and name it for example WinXP_MP_installed."


My first question is why image C: and D: with two hard disks but only C: with one?


My second question, having noted the suggestion of installing MP to D: is, in the interests of disk wear and tear, and for a ready to use restoration system image, is it a good idea to install only the OS and basics such as Firewall and anti-virus on C: but have all other frequently used apps on D: ?

Thankyou

(My required attached logfile is from my old MP before XP re-install)

 

[etheesdad]

I think the issue is that whatever setup you use, the system needs to be as easy as possible to restore from image if something goes wrong. Exactly how you do that is probably a matter of personal preference, but I think Infinity's reasoning is sound to have separate system and MP partitions and images. In this way its simple to quickly isolate whether an issue is MP related or due to something else. Its also more expedient to run lots of small incremental backups than lots of large ones (which would take up a hell-load more hard drive space). And its faster to restore smaller images!

re Q1, You could partition the second drive as much as you wanted to. I dont think Infinity's saying not to, just that this would be one way to set up the drives and partitions. I'll leve the question for him to answer though

re Q2, personally I cant think of an advantage to having other apps on the same partition as MP, mainly because it would increase the size of the image(s) and would make the process of backing up and restoring more cumbersome. I guess this will depend on how you are using the machine and your own individual preferences though. If you dont mind increasing the size of the images (ands therefore the time required to create and restore them) then its definitely do-able.

Its about making things quick and simple. Personally I think the performance issue pertains generally to having media storage on a separate drive to MP and System. The priority in my opinion is making the thing as workable as possible so you're not in front of it until 3am and then getting bitch-slapped by the wife because her shows didnt record. (or maybe thats just what happens at my place)