Windows 10: Reverse sync files using RoboCopy? (or any other tool/app/hack)

OK, this one is a little complex. I hope I am able to explain properly.

I recently "discovered" Robocopy, and one particular use of it that I hope I can further exploit. The command in question is:
Code: robocopy {source} {destination} /e /create[/quote] What it does is create a copy of the source directory/drive in the destination directory/drive, but with zero-sized files. You can use Windows Explorer to search through the files just like normal files, perform cut-copy-paste operations on them, just like normal files, except these files are zero-size.

So, currently I use this to make a "zero-sized" copy of my external hard drives on my laptop's drive and use it as a kinda of index to search if and where I have what I am looking for on any of my external drives. It is useful if the need arises when I am not at home or at work, and also saves me the trouble of firing up the external drives for small searches often.

Now the meat of the query: I have an Unsorted folder in each of my External Drives where I dump files and then sort them to the intended location at a later time. Now, since Robocopy can also be used to sync files across source and destination directory/drives, it got me wondering if there is a way I can do the sorting on the "zero-sized" copy of the external files in my free time (like when I am traveling to and from work) and then sync this sorting to the actual respective external drives when I connect them to the laptop. This way I have more free time at home that can be spent with family and friends (and Netflix).

I hope I was able to explain correctly. I got a great reply to a seemingly complex query earlier which encouraged me to ask this here.

I am also open to any third party app or non-robocopy method that can achieve this, as long as I am not required to keep the full-sized backup of the External Drives on the laptop. It hasn't got that kinda space.

Thanks and keep up the good work.

:)

 

Good tools for syncing to another PC?

Yes, I figured someone would suggest that. But I often synced gigabytes of data back & forth, and I don't want to do that over a net connection. A one-step "sync home -> travel" operation (or reverse) is simple, and I don't have to worry about it syncing without my knowledge and maybe going the wrong direction. Maybe the Google/etc sync tools are smart enough for that to work transparently... not sure. I'm willing to be educated / convinced if that's really the best answer.

Didn't realize there WAS a pay version. I guess that's the "donation" option. I'll do that if I decide to use FFS.

 

Robocopy - This App Can't run on this PC

Up until last night I was using robocopy to backup my files. This morning, when I try, I get the message "This app can't run on this PC.

I get the same message even when I type robocopy /?

I have re-started the machine and get the same message.

Has anyone any suggestions?

I have Windows10 64-bit on acer PC.

 

Handy OS X Tools and Apps

You should add VLC to that list. Plays most anything, except WMV/WMA.

And are we sticking to free tools? Cause I have suggestions for some that cost money, but are well worth it IMHO.