Instructions for Backing Up Data
myArmsCache doesn’t automatically back up your data. You decide which backup method to use and how often to create a new backup.
The options below explain several ways to protect your data or move it to another device.
You can also find detailed instructions in the app by going to Settings > Backup & Restore.
OPTION 1: iCloud Backup
When using iCloud Backup, there are a number of steps you need to follow to make sure the app is included in your iCloud backup.
In order to make sure you have the most updated information, here are links to help you through the process.
- How to back up your iPhone or iPad with iCloud: https://support.apple.com/en-us/108366
- How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch with your Mac: https://support.apple.com/en-us/108796
- How to back up your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with Windows: https://support.apple.com/en-us/108967
**RESTORE DATA: if you have an issue with the app, you will need to restore the data from your backup. Here are instructions from Apple:
- Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch from a backup: https://support.apple.com/en-us/118105
OPTION 2: File Sharing (also known as iTunes File Sharing)
Whether you back up your data with iCloud or not, it’s helpful to keep a copy of the databases on your computer. That way, if you have an issue, you won’t need to restore your device from backup.
This also provides an extra safeguard in case you have an issue with your device or are unable to restore from a backup. Plus you can use this if you want to copy your data to a new device.
The instructions for File Sharing differ slightly depending on what OS you are using, so here are links to each.
- Using macOS Catalina or later: https://support.apple.com/en-us/119585
- Using a Windows computer: https://support.apple.com/en-us/120402
- Using an older version of macOS: https://support.apple.com/en-us/120403
**IMPORTANT**
Regardless of the method you use, it is important that you COPY ALL 3 DATABASE FILES.
You will also need to periodically update the database on your computer, especially after an update, as you may experience an issue trying to use an old database with newer versions of the app.
Copy to a second device.
You can copy the files from your computer to the second device.
- Drag/copy ALL 3 files from your computer to the myArmsCache folder on your second device. If it asks you if you want to replace the files already there, select Replace.
- Open the myArmsCache app. If you don’t see the items, completely close the app and reopen it.
*** WARNING *** Do not attempt to edit or modify the database files on your computer; doing so could cause serious issues and corrupt the data.
OPTION 3: Backup & Restore (only available to active subscribers)
When you use this option, you will create a backup copy of your database that can be saved in the Files app on your device.
You can use that file later to restore your data if you have an issue with the app, or to copy your data to a second device.
Keep in mind that you will need to periodically replace the backup after making changes to your data, and after app updates.
Instructions for saving a backup file and importing it can be found in the Settings section of the app under Backup & Restore.
IMPORTANT: Restoring from a backup file deletes the database currently on that device and replaces it with the database in the backup. The two databases are not merged, and the restore cannot be undone inside the app.
OPTION 4: CSV File
If you’ve decided to cancel your subscription, or just want to keep your data in a spreadsheet, then you can export your data as a CSV File.
The CSV file can be opened with a Spreadsheet Program, such as Excel or Numbers. The CSV File includes the data, but it does not include the photos.
Instructions:
- Go to the Settings section of the app
- Scroll down and tap the row that says ‘Export CSV’
- Choose which data you want to export to a CSV File.