Time machine file smaller than space used on HD?

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13.3" macbook pro (2010) 2.4 Ghz Core 2 Duo, 4 Gb RAM, 500GB HD.
I've noticed the size of my time machine backup is approximately 4.5 GB's smaller than the 'used' space on my HDD, is this normal?
 

chscag

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Your post was moved to the correct forum as it does not belong in "Switcher". Please read forum descriptions and Sticky notices before posting. Thanks.

Yes, it's normal. The initial backup (first one you made) will include everything unless you've specifically excluded certain folders and files. That backup should be approximately the same size. Subsequent backups will be smaller.
 
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This is the first backup I made, with no folders excluded.
 

chscag

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How are you determining the size of your first backup? In other words, how are you viewing the backup?

I just checked my first backup to make sure, and it closely approximates the size of what I have on my hard drive. Subsequent backups are much smaller as only the changes are backed up.
 
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Currently 13" Late 2010 MBA, 4GB/128GB; Early 2011 13" MBP, dual core i7 2.7ghz, 4gb ram, 500gb hd
You have 4GB of RAM, it's most likely not backing up the swap space.
 
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Here's a screenshot;

6GXVy.png



See how the time machine one is smaller?
 
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Actually, swap space is not the term I meant... I meant the sleepimage file. Your system sets aside some space equal to your RAM to save the contents of RAM when your system hibernates. That's your sleepimage, and it's not usually backed up. If you were to look at your drive with an app like GrandPerspective, you would see the large 4GB box that represents your sleepimage.
 

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