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Data and Reinstall

Protect your library before moving HyperHQ, replacing a drive, or reinstalling Windows.

What to back up​

Keep copies of:

  • The HyperSpin folder selected under Settings, Paths
  • A current HyperHQ database backup
  • Emulator folders containing saves or portable settings
  • ROM folders stored outside the HyperSpin folder
  • Platform firmware, BIOS, and keys stored outside emulator folders

Find the HyperSpin folder​

  1. Open Settings in HyperHQ.
  2. Open Paths.
  3. Review the HyperSpin path.
  4. Open the folder in File Explorer.

This folder contains the frontend and its managed media. Custom ROM and emulator folders might live elsewhere.

Find database backups​

  1. Open Settings, Database Backup.
  2. Select Create.
  3. Select Open Folder.
  4. Copy the newest backup to another drive.

See Saves and Backups for restore details.

Move the setup to another drive​

  1. Close HyperSpin, HyperHQ, and all emulators.
  2. Copy the HyperSpin folder to the new drive.
  3. Copy external ROM and emulator folders.
  4. Open HyperHQ.
  5. Update Settings, Paths.
  6. Open each platform and update moved executable paths.
  7. Open each system and update moved ROM paths.
  8. Test one game per platform.

Keep the old copy until the full setup passes testing.

Complete a clean reinstall​

  1. Create a database backup.
  2. Copy the HyperSpin folder and external game data to safe storage.
  3. Install HyperHQ.
  4. Select the restored HyperSpin folder during setup.
  5. Open Settings, Database Backup and restore the saved database.
  6. Review platform and ROM paths.
  7. Test HyperHQ, HyperSpin, HyperOverlay, and HyperMarquee.

Reconnect missing platforms​

Platforms with a missing executable show Repair available or let you choose an existing installation.

Use existing installation when the emulator folder survived the move. Use automatic repair when you need a fresh supported installation.

Common problems​

Games appear but do not launch​

The database restored, but a platform or ROM path points to the old drive. Update the platform executable and system ROM paths.

Media is missing​

Confirm Settings, Paths points to the restored HyperSpin folder. Then use Refresh Media for the affected system.

Saves are missing​

The emulator uses a data folder outside HyperHQ. Restore the matching emulator save folder and confirm the platform points to the expected installation.