Windows 7 Backup Error 0x8100002F after Zune 4.2 Update

Error Summary: You receive this Windows Backup error message when trying to perform a full backup or when a scheduled backup “completes.” The message says that the backup “completed” but some files were skipped.

Error Applies To: Windows 7 (32bit and 64bit) [Confirmed], Windows Vista [Most Likely], Earlier Versions of Windows [Not Applicable]. Must have Zune 4.2.202.0 installed .

Error Status: No official solution/acknowledgement by Microsoft has been issued. A manual fix is available.

Error Details/Scenario: Windows Backup is properly configured and more than one full backup has manually or automatically successfully completed. After installing the Zune 4.2 Update on Windows 7 machines, the Podcast Library is created and Zune software finds and organizes content by using Windows 7 Libraries. This results in some problems if prior ‘Monitored Folders’ settings were tuned to precise settings. One problem is the detection of a missing ‘Podcasts’ folder in a directory Windows Backup is set to create a backup of. This could be due to a bug in the Zune software where proper instructions were not set to create this folder that Windows Backup somehow knows should exist and expects to back up. Other error messages can surface if Windows Backup’s destination contains content folders that are included in your Windows 7 Libraries (e.g. You have a “Movies” folder stored on your external hard drive that is part of your ‘Videos Library’). If this is the case, Windows Backup will add these folders to the “Skipped Files” error message because it does not want to backup those folders as they already exist on the backup destination. This is effective if you don’t want to waste storage space, but your Backup results will not show up green and successful.

Error Fix: To resolve these two issues, there are two goals: 1) Create the mysterious ‘Podcasts’ folder in the directory where it should exist. 2) Edit Windows Backup settings or move folders to your C: Drive (or another local hard drive that is not your backup destination).

Pre-Fix Steps

1. Open Windows Backup and make sure the status is displayed as “Check your backup results. The backup completed but some files were skipped” with an ‘Options’ button [shown in Image 1].
   
   
   
2. Click on the ‘Options’ button to bring up the “Windows Backup Troubleshooting Options” window [shown in Image 2]. 
   
   
   
3. Click on ‘Show Details’ to expand the window and confirm the error code [shown in Image 3].
   
   
   
4. Click on ‘View skipped files’ to open the Notepad .TXT file containing the list of folders/files that were skipped. Example: ‘C:\Windows\System32\config\systemprofile\Podcasts. Error:(The system cannot find the file specified. (0x80070002))’ will either be the only entry or part of multiple entries. For now, you can ignore this directory, but make note of any other folders that were skipped, if any (Zune content folders that are on your backup destination and were skipped will be listed) [shown in Image 4].
   
   
   
5. Proceed to Fix Steps.

Fix Steps

• Missing ‘Podcasts’ Folder is Skipped From Backup
  • This is easy to fix. We just need to go to the destination where the .TXT file says the folder is missing, click on ‘New Folder’ to create and name the folder, and we’re done.
    1. Obtain the destination of your missing ‘Podcasts’ folder from the .TXT file. This should be ‘C:\Windows\System32\config\systemprofile\Podcasts. Error:(The system cannot find the file specified. (0x80070002)).’
    2. Click on the ‘Start’ button and go to ‘Computer.’
    3. Double-click your C: Drive. Find the ‘Windows’ folder. Open it.
    4. Find and open the ‘System32’ folder.
    5. Find and open the ‘config’ folder.
    6. Find and open the ‘systemprofile’ folder.
    7. Here, you might find other folders and files, like an ‘AppData’ folder and an ‘ntuser.dat’ file but no ‘Podcasts’ folder [Shown in Image 5].
       
       
       NOTE: If you were unable to find any of these folders, you might need to change your Folder Settings so that hidden folders are shown [How-To LINK] . Or if you were prompted to show hidden system folders or accept a User Access Control dialog, accept and/or Okay those prompts.
       
       
    8. Create a new folder by clicking on the ‘New Folder’ button from the menu bar. Alternatively, right-click the white space within the Window and hover to New > Folder [Shown in Image 6].
       
       
       
    9. Rename the ‘New Folder’ as ‘Podcasts’ [exactly as shown in Image 7].
       
       
       
    10. Close the window. You are done. If no other folders were skipped, this should complete the fix and you may re-run Windows Backup. If other folders were skipped because “they already existed on the destination,” proceed to the next part of the fix.
        
        
• Folders/Files Skipped Because They Exist on the Backup Destination Drive
  • This is a trickier solution because it varies for every user. I don’t have any screenshots for this part because everyone has their own setup of content folders. Also, I fixed this issue on my computer prior to writing this article, so I would have to re-create the mess to be able to illustrate something that will be possibly very different from what you may be experiencing. However, if you need further assistance, feel free to contact me by leaving a comment and I will be more than happy to assist you on a case-by-case, personal basis.
    1. Identify the content folders that are part of your Libraries and are also located on the hard drive Windows Backup uses. They will be listed in the same .TXT document created in the error window from the Pre-Fix Steps.
       
    2. Find those folders on the hard drive(s).
       • Explanation of Content Folders: For example, if you have a folder where you store your digital movies (let’s call it the “Movies” folder) but your C: Drive is too small to contain all these big files, then appropriately, you moved this folder to your bigger external storage drive. You still want these files to sync with your Zune in the new 4.2 Update, so the folder needs to be part of your Videos Library within Windows 7 since 4.2 only displays content in your Collection if it is part of a Windows Library. 
         [FAQs of Windows 7 Libraries LINK].
         
         (NOTE: A Library in Windows 7 is a list of folders from across your computer(s) and external storage drives that contain similar content so that they all show up in one listing. Thus, when you open the Library, content from various locations  appears to be filtered together, even though it exists separately in different locations).
         
         So, if your “Movies” folder, or any folder, was already a “Monitored Folder” in Zune software before the 4.2 Update, the update should have added this folder to the appropriate Windows 7 Library (e.g. picture folders to the Pictures Library, music folders to the Music Library, and video folders to the Videos Library).
         [Explanation of “Monitored Folders” in Zune LINK].
         
         This is where the problem is created. Since the “Recommended” settings for Windows Backup automatically select everything listed in your Libraries to be part of the files for backup (appropriately), your “Movies” folder is going to be part of this list. But, when Windows Backup detects that the “Movies” folder already exists on the destination storage location where your backup is being saved, it will skip it and other folders to prevent storage waste. In other words, why backup a folder to a destination that is already a “safe” place? Windows Backup will still complete, but will not report a successful backup and you will continue to receive alert messages to check your backup settings.
         
    3. You have two options for the list of skipped folders you have found. 1) Move the folders to your C: Drive or another storage destination that is not the backup destination. 2) Customize Windows Backup settings so that affected Libraries are not automatically part of the backup process, and instead select only the folders you want. The reason you can’t just un-list them from the Libraries is because when you do, the content from the folders will no longer show up in your Zune Collection.
       
    4. Pick an option and follow the steps according to the goals we have explained.
       • Move Folders to C:Drive or Another Storage Unit
         1. Find all affected folders and move them to appropriate folders in your Profile folder (contains the My Documents, My Music, My Pictures, My Videos, Podcasts folders). Find your Profile folder by opening the Start Menu and clicking on your account’s name at the top-right).
         2. Alternatively, if you have another storage drive that is always connected to your computer, move the folders to that drive so they are in a different destination than the one Windows Backup uses. Remember to add these folders back to the appropriate Library.
    • Modify Windows Backup Settings
      1. Instead of using the “Recommended” settings, modify them so that Libraries are ignored. But you have to make sure that your Profile folder and any listed folders in your Library are also part of the Backup or are stored on a “safe” external storage drive.
      2. LINK to Neowin.net “Windows 7: Windows Backup Overview” article.

I apologize for the length of this tutorial, but it needed to pack a lot of explanation sections in case you had questions along the way. If you still hit a bump in the process, feel free to comment with a question or suggestion in how this post can be improved. I will periodically be checking this post and updating as needed.

Download YouTube videos to Zune

It’s finally here. An updated and revamped version of the original “Download YouTube Videos to Zune” video. It was a success and many people were very thankful. However, some had some trouble and things have changed since then, so it was time to deliver what people wanted. If you have a Zune and want to download any video from YouTube, here is the best video guide.

Download YouTube Videos to Zune and PC [Updated]

Useful tips and resources:

Select the folders that you want the Zune software to monitor for new music, videos, pictures, and podcasts

Folders can include playlists, music, videos, pictures, and podcasts from another player collection. If you add or remove files from these folders, the Zune software automatically updates the collection accordingly.
To configure the folders that you want the Zune software to monitor, follow these steps:

1. Start the Zune software.
2. In the upper-right corner, click Settings, click Software, and then select Collection. A list of folders appears that the Zune software currently monitors for new media files.
3. To modify the list of monitored folders, use the following guidelines:
   
   • o To add a new folder to the list, click Add Folder, and then select the folder that you want to add.
     o Note If you add a folder that is located on a removable drive, and the drive is no longer available, the Zune software automatically removes the content in that folder from your collection.
     
   • o To remove a folder from the list, click Remove for the folder that you want to remove.

How to add music, videos, pictures, and podcasts that you play on the computer to the Zune device

When you start the Zune software for the first time, the software automatically adds music, videos, pictures, and podcasts on the computer to the Zune collection. Then, you can set up the Zune software to monitor the folders in which you store your media. If you add or delete something in these folders, the Zune software updates your collection accordingly.
To prevent the Zune software from automatically adding these files to your collection, follow these steps:

1. Start the Zune software.
2. Click Settings, click Software, and then select Collection.
3. Click to clear the Automatically update album art and media information check box.
4. Click OK.

Common Issues and Solutions

Common Issue #1: Won't Sync/Detect Video

Make sure to select the MP4 file type. This should solve most problems related to Zune not detecting other corrupted files. Also, remember to change the name in the new MP4, make it different than when you tried to import the older file, or else Zune Software might not always detect that it's a new file.

Common Issue #2: "Only Works on Some Videos"

Not true. The converter should be able to download all YouTube video, regardless their status. If you simply cannot download a certain video, contact us and we will solve the problem.

Common Issue #3: Plays on PC but not Zune

Confirm you are using the MP4 file type. Refer to Common Issue #1 tips.

Common Issue #4: Video or Data "Corrupt"

Specify where you are getting this error message (i.e. YouTube, MediaConverter.org, Zune, etc.), then contact us.

Common Issue #5: Compatible with iPod's?

If you would like to download YouTube videos to your iPod as well, you will have to use the MP4 file format.


- Albert

New Zune games added: Checkers, Sudoku, and Space Battle

Soon after watching the new Zune TV commercial, I decided to visit Zune.net to see if they had uploaded a high quality version of the ad. They didn’t, but did create a new official YouTube Zune channel. But anywho, as I was browsing the site, I noticed two main details. One, the site is undergoing a very nice re-design. And two, they’ve added more games! Best of all, they’re all still free! The new games, as the title implies, are Checkers, Sudoku, and Space Battle. I was getting a little bored with Hexic, so this is only awesome!

 

 

Links:

• Zune Games site
• How to install the new games site

I haven’t installed them myself, but I will soon. If anyone has any questions or problems, feel free to drop a comment.

 

- Albert

Zune 3.0 holiday TV advertising campaign launches

As promised by Cesar on the latest Zune Insider audio episode, the Zune holiday marketing has launched today on NBC’s Heroes. The campaign is supposed to concentrate on the unique features of Zune, rather than continue the vague messages of the previous campaigns. This ad is a good start to that goal. However, there needs to be more than just this. As much as this is only the first ad, it is a great sign for a big move to the direction that the Zune marketing team needs to take: selling the qualities and features that the Zune embodies. One thing to note though, and I say this based on feedback I’m getting from “regular” folks (those who do not follow tech companies and closely observe their products), is that some people may find the ad content itself really cool, but will never understand that it is a Zune feature and what exactly it does. Like for example, one friend tells me that she thought it was some new Zune feature that would allow people to communicate to each other in a webcam-like method. If you think about, that’s a pretty good reaction if you have no idea of what Zune is. Maybe, and I hate to say it like this, Zune needs more of the “instructional”-type marketing that Apple is really good at. The kind where maybe we can see the same thing we see on this ad, but with a narrator, or Common, explaining what happens when you click on each Mixview component. That way, people see cool stuff going on TV, a known face, and know what it is and what holds in store for them if they download it too. Okay, enough of me. Here is the ad. A way better quality version will replace this one as soon as I make it available. Better quality version now published here. Enjoy.

 

- Albert

Conan O’Brien, the Zune, and Al-Qaeda

Yep, you read the title right. A couple of nights ago, Conan O’Brien decided to give Al-Qaeda a call to see why they had endorsed John McCain for president. During the call, we learn that the iPod is “the Devil’s MP3 player.” See for yourself.

 

I love Conan’s show by the way. You should all watch. Weekday nights after Jay Leno on NBC at 12:30ish.

 

- Albert

Zune 3.0 now available for download; update guide

Okay, so after finally calming down after all the excitement, here it finally is: a full screenshot-powered run through of what is the magical experience of Zune 3.0 software. But first, a list of all the new amazing stuff in Zune 3.0 software and firmware:

• Zune clock now lives! (The 3.0 firmware update includes a clock you can enable)
• Has a "screen lock" (password feature to lock your Zune)
• New "zune pad" options
• Zune "pink cloud" now super charged! (you can notice it now!)
• Installs two games on device update ("Hexic" and "Texas Hold'em")
• Quicklist now called "now playing" (makes sense)
• New Zune software backgrounds (most updated)
• Improved UI media-navigation features
• And of course "MixView" (but I haven't had a chance to use it because Zune.net is still not up and running as of my installation)
• And much more we've all yet to discover...

Okay, so for all you folks out there needing a hand with the Zune 3.0 software upgrade installation, here's my guide.

1. Launch Zune software.

2. Click on the Settings link on the top right.

3. Under "Software" go to the General tab.

4. Under "Software updates" check on "Check for updates." Once update is found, click on "Update Now."

5. It will begin preparing your computer for the installer.

6. It will launch the installer. Accept the terms.

7. Finally click on Install to begin the installation.

8. The update should jump to the final step, "installing the zune software."

9. Close the installer once it is complete and launch the Zune software via the new icon on the desktop.

10. The new Zune 3.0 software loads.

11. You should attempt to sign in to accept the "updated terms of service."

12. Next, after you have signed in, it's time to update your Zune device. It can be the Zune 30, Zune 80, or Zune 4/8. Zunes 120 and 16 should already come preloaded with the new device firmware. Connect your Zune media player while Zune software is up and running. Windows will detect it as a new device.

13. You Zune software should detect the old firmware of the Zune media player and display the following screen. Click on Install. Make sure you leave the box checked to have games installed on your Zune.

14. The software will quickly download the updated Zune 3.0 firmware to your Zune and begin an updating process on your media player in which the screen will continue to turn on and off. Leave it plugged in. Do not press anything. This is all normal. You should see the following as this occurs.

15. You will receive the following success screen once your Zune media player is updated to firmware 3.0.

16. And finally, you should be able to see your Zune. Yep, Albus after Dumbledore ;p

Congratulations! You have just updated your Zune software and Zune media player to version and firmware 3.0. Welcome to the social!

- Albert

Zune in "Another Cinderella Story"?

It was recently brought to my attention by a friend that E! had done some reporting on the upcoming Disney movie, "Another Cinderella Story," and talked about a Zune being part of the plot. After looking through some videos, I found out that instead of dropping her glass slipper, like in the original Cinderella story, she drops what appears to be a key chain and a Zune MP3 player. The following clip is the most I have found on the topic, so if anyone has any other information, make sure to drop a comment.

Video clip from the movie: fast-forward to 2:00 min.

- Albert

Cool Zune 3.0 software UI updates coming

Was just browsing around the Zune Press site when I stumbled across their Press Resources page and found the following screenshot of the Zune 3.0 software for the Marketplace Videos section. What became of particular interest to me was the new and updated "pink dancing cloud" ( , ).

 

Here is the current "Pink Dancing Cloud"

  

 

Here's the Zune 3.0 "Cloud" (pink only no more)

 

^ My hope on the new "Dancing Cloud/Waves" is that it will be a lot more responsive to the music playing and people are actually able to notice it.

 

 

I also noticed that the background they used for the Zune Marketplace Videos screenshot was noticeably different from any of the ones included in the current Zune software. There is one that is very similar, but the color and design is actually different. Here, take a look:

 

Current Zune background (whole)

  

 

Zune 3.0 Background (whole)

 

Current Zune Background (close-up)

 

Zune 3.0 Background (close-up)

 

^ They are certainly not the same one, and the new Zune 3.0 one does not look any closer to any of other current Zune backgrounds. So this is definitely a sign that new Zune backgrounds are coming our way! Hopefully that, and the availability of changing the color scheme for the background.

 

Keep your eyes peeled people...I know mine are.

- Albert

Cool new Zune logo animation

In a series of Zune 3.0 demonstrations, we find the following very cool intro and closing Zune logo animations. The video plays the intro animation, then the closing, and repeats the order but in slow motion, only to experience the awesomeness even further. Enjoy!

Watch the video:

- Albert