Limiting Time Machine Backup Size

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Hello all,

I am currently using a 2TB TC to back up my MBP and store other files, but I feel as if the backups are taking too much room (+700GB). Is it possible to limit the size of these backup files, or should I just start backing up on a separate external HD connected to the TC? I would prefer having my backups on the TC...
 
chscag

chscag

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That depends on what you wish to backup. I like to backup everything including any VMs that I have running. Some folks only backup data such as documents, photos, music, etc. It depends on what you can live with.

Otherwise keep your TM backup separate from your other usage. In other words, have another external drive handy.
 
Arbo

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I don't know what a TC or MBP is (new to macs). But I picked up a 2T external today, and just partitioned it in half, so is used for time machine, the other to store away files. I figured from what I heard time machine would keep going until it filled a space, so I just limited it's 'space'.
 
Ghost Rider

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My time machines works too hard. A backup every 1hr. He needs a vacation :)
I wish we could switch it to 1 or 2 backups a day.
 
Arbo

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Yeah, if there is a way to set it to less than every hour, I have missed that bit. I would like to, as that is far too often.
 
Arbo

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I found the following information regarding this issue.

https://discussions.apple.com/thread/1505050?start=0&tstart=0

It is possible to easily change the interval via the Terminal (/Applications/Utilities/Terminal.app)

Enter this code (where nnnn is your desired interval, in seconds)
sudo defaults write /System/Library/LaunchDaemons/com.apple.backupd-auto StartInterval -int nnnn

You will be prompted for a password. Enter your password, hit return, and restart time machine (just turn it on and off). That should do it.

To reset it, do that command using the number 3600.
Click to expand...
 
chscag

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Ghost Rider said:
My time machines works too hard. A backup every 1hr. He needs a vacation :)
I wish we could switch it to 1 or 2 backups a day.
Click to expand...

Time Machine Scheduler: LINK By the way, it's free. :)
 
Ghost Rider

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Thanks Chscag I will check that out!
 

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