No, I can't see anything there that's relevant.
I've tried "clear library" and reimporting from the desktop files instead of the ehd copies but it won't restore tags. I've tried "backup library" and "restore library" multiple times. One frustration is that JRiver will give a prompt saying the restore was successful, but that you must "restart" it to secure it -- but there is no restart option! I've had to force quit multiple times as it keeps freezing.
I'm guessing that automatic back-up hasn't happened and that even if the custom tags are written to the files (I have my doubts now) I can't access them as JRiver won't let me.
crisp,
You need to stop trashing around trying randon things when you don't understand what you are doing.
You made a mistake when you cleared the library the first time. There was not need to clear the database. All you had to do was to move the files and make sure that the database preferneced the new file locations. Recovering from that mistake requires understanding the mechanisms you use to get back to normal. No crime here but it does require some extra learning and extra effort on your part.
--- re-creating your custom fields
If the "Revert database fields back to default" checkbox was checked when you cleared the library, JRiver removed your custom fields in addition to removing the music files from your library. When you imported the same music files again, JRiver ignored any tags for which there were no corresponding fields in the database.
Check the list of database fields (in Tools/Options/Library&Folders/Manage Library fields) to see if your custom fields are still defined. If they are not listed, create them again.
While you are at it, be sure that the "Save in file tags (when possible)" checkbox is checked for your custom fields. Also make sure that the "Update tags when file info changes" checkbox (In tools/Options/General) is checked.
If you are using WAV or AIFF files, you may need to look for one more setting to ensure that database information is stored in the music files. JimH can give you that information.
--- using the "Restore Library" command.
There was no point to executing a "Backup libary" command when the library was not showing custom fields. If the Library does not contain the custom tag fields, the backup file won't either. There was no point in executing a "Restore library" command using such a backup file.
You need to locate a library backup file from before you executed the Clear library the first time. Backup files are named with the library name and the date. The "resotre Library command" should show you a list of backup files in the folder where it has been storing them.
This should bring you back to where you were before you cleared the library the first time. No you need to move the music files and make sure that JRiver points to the new location.
--- using the Move files mechanism.
JimH pointed you to a Wiki page on moving files. Read that section. If you still don't understand what to do, ask specific questions. Do not continue trying destructive actions at random.
---- freezing when JRiver finishes clearing the library
I can't comment on the "restart problem you had". In the Windows environment
---- advice
I went to some trouble to think through what might have happened to you. I ran some experiments to verify what I have written. Please try to read what I have written and follow the steps I have outlined. If you don't understand something, stop and ask questions.
I am limited in how much I can type but JimH or someone else may help you.
Bill