The Automatic Daily File Backup System transfers all programs and files on the hospital's hard disk drive storage devices to magnetic tape without the need of an operator to be present.  The system employs a Snapshot File System to extend system availability through the back-up process.  With the Snapshot File System, the central processor does not have to go into single-user mode to perform a "high speed automatic backup" of all of the hospital's current data.  When the backup is initiated, the system records that moment in time.  If any changes are made to stored data during the backup, the original data is saved on a dedicated “snapshot” disk.  A backup tape is prepared from the storage array and the snapshot disk to produce a record of the hospital’s data as of the time the backup was initiated.  The system and all data remain on-line, operational, and available throughout the entire backup process.