Advice to save all user data when doing an erase upgrade

[dambox]

Hi

I have scanned the threads and have not found a clear answer. I have snow leopard installed as an upgrade over previous versions. However I am getting frequent kernel crashes so plan to install as a fresh copy.

I have three users on the iMAC and want to ensure their data is saved and ideally the applications (or at least the settings). Key are the ilife data, itunes,photos, calendar entries etc.

I have an external drive and can back up specific files or copy the who system drive.

What is the best way to do this ? and details step by step guide would be helpful to ensure I do not miss anything. If there is a post I missed please let me know and I will go there.

[dnanian]

"Backup - all files" with "Smart Update" or "erase, then copy".

I'd then do a reinstall (not an erase install) to see if it helps. Erasing is rarely necessary.

If not, and you have to erase, when prompted to 'copy from another Mac', point it at your backup volume and it'll bring in your applications and data from the backup.