Instructions for Upgrading are not always applicable
I use several different computers. As a result, I use a "mobile profile" (basically, this means on a flash drive). Quite often, I go to use one of the computers and I get an error saying that the profile version is newer than the version of Thunderbird on that machine, and offering me the choice of creating a new profile (which I do not want).
The instructions for upgrading suggest that it is automatic, and that you only have to visit the 'About' menu entry to force it. However, these all assume that Thunderbird will start. In the scenario I mentioned, it does not start.
This means that I have to manually go and find the Thunderbird download page (which I can never remember) and then re-install it on that machine.
Isn't there some better way of dealing with this situation, e.g, another application on the Windows Start Menu that will do the upgrade for me?
All Replies (4)
1. Thunderbird is NOT designed with a non stable profile location. So your flash solution is not supported, hence it is not even considered.
2. Portable Thunderbird is the answer if you are fixated on using USB storage. You get it from portable apps. Because Thunderbird and the data re on the same disk, again no issue.
I'm not sure I'd describe my scenario as "non stable profile location", Matt, since it is using the same USB storage every time, and Thunderbird has command-line options to support this mode. It could also be on an external drive, so the main issue is that it is not using storage private to the particular computer.
The mode I'm using was recommended to me when I moved to Thunderbird (not on this forum), and I wasn't aware of the portable option.
How compatible is the portable Thunderbird with the normal one? For instance, is the UI identical? Is an upgrade to my profile or stored messages necessary? How much space does it require for the installation?
Modified by ACProctor
PortableApps is fairly compatible. I believe they have support forums which would be your best place for help.
You know, if your email accounts are imap you don't need to carry your mail on a usb stick?
Modified by Wayne Mery
Having researched this more deeply, it seems that simply re-installing Thunderbird on a regular basis, or even turning off updates altogether, is the easiest and more reliable solution. Switching code bases is more risky than reduced updates, and installing on a portable disk/stick may not be an option if there is insufficient space.
So, coming back to the original question, and ignoring the usual antipathetic tone here (I've only posed two questions since become a regular user some year ago), then wouldn't it be a trivial matter to have an 'update page' that I can simply go to?