How can the SONAPHONE DataSuite database be backed up and when should a backup be created?

The SONAPHONE DataSuite database contains the asset, measuring point, and measurement data stored within the software.

To prevent data loss, the database should particularly be backed up before updates, changes to the installation, or advanced troubleshooting activities.

Where is the database located?

For the desktop versions, the database is located in the SONAPHONE DataSuite installation directory.

The default directory is:

C:\Users\<UserName>\Documents\SONOTEC\SONAPHONE DataSuite

The database files are located in the following subfolder:

h2data

If a different location was selected during installation, the folder is located in the corresponding installation directory.

How is the database backed up?

For a database backup, the complete folder:

h2data

should be copied to a safe external storage location.

This preserves the database files required by DataSuite and allows them to be used for troubleshooting or recovery if necessary.

It is recommended to clearly identify backup copies with the date and, where appropriate, the software version.

When should a backup be created?

A backup is particularly recommended:

• before a DataSuite update,
• before modifying or repairing the installation,
• before manually modifying database files,
• before reinstalling the software,
• when SONOTEC Support requires the database for analysis,
• regularly as part of the company's data backup process.

Should the database files be modified manually?

Files within the h2data folder should not be modified, deleted, or renamed by the user unless this is explicitly required by SONOTEC documentation or instructed by SONOTEC Support.

Certain troubleshooting procedures may require changes to database or backup files. Before performing such steps, a backup of the original database must first be created.

Which information should be provided to Support in the event of a database problem?

If troubleshooting by SONOTEC is required, the following information may be helpful depending on the problem:

• DataSuite version being used,
• exact error message,
• description of how the problem occurred,
• time at which the problem occurred,
• DataSuite log files,
• backup of the database or h2data folder if requested by Support.

Database files should only be provided to Support when they are required and requested for the specific troubleshooting case.