Newbie Q - which image to use ?

[tft]

I'm rather new to all of this - I have a dreambox 800 HD and I'd like to
experiment with it all the while making sure that I don't put it into a state
which I'd be sorry. The 'about' notes the following,

Gemini (GP2)
Kernel : Linux 2.6.12-5.1-brc
Release: 0420
Image : 2009.04.23
Enigma : 2009.04.23

Two main questions,

1. How do I backup all the data on the dreambox for safe keeping.
As noted, if I'll be experimenting I'd like to know that I can always
go back to a sane state ? How do I backup the current image and
the contents ?

2. There are SO many different images (Gemini, LT, PLI and openPLI,
newnigma, OoZooN, etc) - I'm sure I'm missing another half dozen
or so...

- How do they differ ? What should I look for ? Why are there so
many different efforts - different focus ? Are some better than
others in certain areas ? Is there a comparison matrix, screenshots,
etc ?

Lastly, my dm800 is a clone, are there certain things I need to be aware
of and/or on the lookout for with regard to the bootloader or other parts ?
What should I stay clear of and/or make sure I'm well educated about...

Sorry for the many questions but as noted I'm looking to get into this so
if there is a FAQ and/or a Wiki that discusses all of this I'll be glad to
RTFM.

PS: I'm a Debian fan/user.

Regards...

[<<ELVIS>>]

your dreambox is a clone you wrote? than my advice... do nothing, be happy with your image that you have now.
try no other image, because your dreambox dont work anymore and give you only a error screen....and i know that.

regards elvis.

[tft]

elvis, thanks for the reply (we'll get to your comments about
clones a bit later); what about the other questions assuming
one doesn't have a clone. I'm sure others out there (newbies)
might find this info interesting given it was available somewhere.

Regards.

[LilleMama]

You can test various images in multiboot with Meoboot and a usbstick for other images , but they have to be with OE 1.5 eg gemini 4.7

[bozzi]

Hello I am a newbie too and was wondering which image to use so i can edit channels like delete or move them i wish there was an easier way to work with motorized dishes. thanks