If you want to transfer your Family Tree Maker (FTM) Source Tree from one computer to another, the procedure is easy and straightforward. You should have FTM 2019 on both computers and transfer the data using a USB flash drive or any other means of storage. A successful transfer avoids losing any precious genealogical data. This tutorial will guide you through the process of transferring your FTM Source Tree securely step by step with a USB flash drive.
Steps to Transfer Your FTM Source Tree with a Flash Drive
1. On the First Computer
- Launch Family Tree Maker 2019 – Begin the application on the computer hosting your FTM Source Tree.
- Make a Backup of Your Tree
- Go to File and click on Backup.
- Enter a distinctive name for the backup file so that it can be identified from other backups.
- Select where to store your backup:
- Removable Media: Use this if you are storing it on a USB flash drive or DVD.
- Hard Disk: Store the backup file in the Family Tree Maker folder within your Documents folder.
- Custom Directory: Click Change to choose an alternative storage location on your hard drive.
- Select the boxes to include:
- Media files (photos, documents, and other attached files)
- Historical events (custom events you created)
- Web favorites (bookmarked web links)
- Click Backup – A notification will ascertain the successful creation of the backup.
- Copy the Backup File to a USB Flash Drive – Go to where you have saved the backup, then copy it onto your USB flash drive.
- Safe Removal of the Flash Drive – Safely remove the USB flash drive from the first computer before disconnecting it.
2. On the Second Computer
- Insert the USB Flash Drive – Insert the flash drive into one of the USB ports on the second computer.
- Copy the Backup File to the Hard Disk – Copy the backup file to your second computer before restoring it.
- Open Family Tree Maker 2019 – Open the FTM program.
- Restore Your Backup File
- Click File and choose Restore.
- Go to the stored backup file, click on it, and click Open.
- Select a place to save the restored tree on your second computer.
- Click Save, and FTM restores the tree.
- Update TreeVault Antenna Tree (If Necessary)
- Log in to the same TreeVault account used on the first computer.
- Go to View > Tree Browser or select the Select Tree option.
- In the Tree Browser, select TreeVault, then Next.
- Select Find FTM Tree and choose your tree.
- Your tree is now connected to the TreeVault Antenna tree on the second computer.
Conclusion
Transferring your FTM Source Tree from one computer to another is an easy task if done properly. Backing up your tree on a regular basis means you won’t lose important genealogical information. Whether you are an amateur or a paid genealogist, having your records stored securely and available on various devices is important. By migrating your tree correctly, you reduce the chances of losing years of research and family history. Having an external backup method such as a USB drive ensures added security, and you can always access your data.
Questions & Answers
The Family Tree Maker folder in your Documents directory is the default location for FTM files.
File > Backup, select a location, and save your backup file.
No, Family Tree Maker only supports Windows and Mac operating systems.
Yes, data import from previous versions, including FTM 2009, is supported by FTM 2019.
Yes, MacKiev offers an FTM flash drive, which can be purchased from their official website.
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