Backup your hdd to an image with following simple command:
dd bs=4096 conv=noerror,sync if=/dev/sdc1 | gzip -c > img.gz
To restore backup image:
gunzip -c img.gz | dd of=/dev/sdc1
Verify with the following:
sha1sum img
sha1sum /dev/sdc1
Whether you want to just say `Hi` or discuss a project or an idea, drop me a line and I will get back to you as soon as possible.