nt8-backup-manager_skill

Overview

This skill manages NinjaTrader 8 local backups and enforces a stable local data path when OneDrive interferes. It automates timestamped snapshots of Templates, Workspaces, and configuration files and includes checks to ensure the NinjaTrader Documents folder points to a local directory. The goal is reliable recoverability and to avoid 'Path not found' or 'File in use' errors caused by cloud syncing.

How this skill works

The skill verifies the active NinjaTrader folder and confirms the Windows user shell 'Personal' folder is set to the local Documents path. It runs a PowerShell backup routine that copies Templates, Workspaces, and configuration files to a timestamped folder on the Desktop. The skill also checks for OneDrive.exe processes and can suggest terminating them to release file locks. Recovery and compilation issues are mitigated by clearing the custom Recovery folder when required.

When to use it

• Before updating or deploying new strategies to ensure a safe rollback point.
• When NinjaTrader reports 'Path not found' after OneDrive changes or profile moves.
• If compilation fails due to locked files or lingering Recovery artifacts.
• Regular scheduled protection of Templates, Workspaces, and configuration files.
• After migrating a user profile off OneDrive to confirm local path stability.

Best practices

• Run the included PowerShell backup before any major configuration change.
• Confirm HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders -> Personal points to a local Documents path.
• Keep backups on a local Desktop folder separate from OneDrive to avoid re-sync locks.
• Terminate OneDrive.exe if it is locking NinjaTrader files before performing restores.
• Remove bin\Custom\Recovery contents only when safe and after backing up recovery data.

Example use cases

• Automated nightly snapshot of NinjaTrader Templates and Workspaces to a Desktop archive.
• Pre-deployment backup before installing new indicators or strategies in production.
• Troubleshooting session where OneDrive prevented NinjaTrader from accessing local config files.
• Recovery after a corrupt workspace by restoring the most recent timestamped backup.