Lets see, ok you don't want to/can't share files/library over a network.
First off, what I would do (without spending any money) is first is go verify in Manage Library Fields that ALL metadata (tag) fields are marked to write to disk when possible. Choose a "master" PC (I'll call it here 1). And then make sure that all your media files are on PC1 are on PC2 using the SAME directory structure - eg D:\Media\Music\AlbumArtist\ . I would also backup the PC2 library, and then clear it entirely (just the first time you do this)
Always backup your media and library (ies) before doing something like this
Then ...
- select all files on PC1; right click=>Library Tools=>Update Tags from Library*
- Backup PC1 library to a USB key
- Restore PC1's Library to PC2
- select all media files; right click=>Library Tools=>Update Tags from Library*
Now, provided that the directory structures were identical and all media exist on both machines (with the same file names^^), you should be all set. If not, you can run autoimport with the Update for external changes and Fix broken links options checked.
OK now both PC: libraries are identical, all tags in your files are identical, as well as all metadata in the database
Normal workflow if new media is added to PC1 or if re-tagging has been done to the Files on PC1
1- Backup library from PC1; restore same to PC2
2a - If there is new media, copy same from PC1 to PC2
- Restore PC1's library to PC2
- Run autoimport manually
2b - If there is no new media, restore PC1's library to PC2
(if there are broken links - run autoimport)
Now, this is technically not a sync, it is a simple backup routine. If you absolutely need to make changes from PC2 you must inverse the process -- not recommended
Note * : writing library metadata to the files will secure your metadata which could be also written back to the MC library in case things go sideways. The reason I'm recommending doing this here, is that if you have some fields which previous to your verification were not checked in options, you will make sure they are embedded for all files in the same way.
Note** : I really recommend to check that the date imported tag is written to the file ... this string of numbers is not really usable per se, but it will resolve some issues when using autoimport to reindex/repair broken links
An old slow Wi-Fi setup, never managed to get the powerline adapters to work properly and cannot route cables thru the house..
Now What you really should think of doing is buying two Netgear 500 mps adapters and plug your two PCs into them. NOW you can network the two! If you need to use Wifi, there are extenders or if budget allows $60 and you have a good enough router. You can use PC1 as a server and through remote desktop (for win7 you need the pro version or third party software) you can wake it up when you need it.
Author
Topic: Keeping two libraries in sync (Read 4339 times)