A digital ledger of switches, lube modifications, build logs, and group buy statuses represents a significant accumulation of technical detail gathered over years of involvement in the hobby. Because ThockLog utilizes a local database to prioritize privacy and offline access, all data is stored directly on the user’s device rather than on a central server. Consequently, a lost, damaged, or replaced phone can result in the permanent erasure of this entire history if a regular backup has not been performed.
What this article covers
This article defines the essential data clusters that should be included in a comprehensive backup and explains the two primary export formats available for maintaining a professional-grade archive. It also outlines the mechanics of the restoration process and the requirements for restoring specific Pro-level data mapping.
A Checklist for a Complete Backup
To ensure a collection’s history is fully preserved, a complete backup of the repository should include the following data clusters:
- Switch Inventory: Full technical specifications and the associated Lube Logs (including lubricant types, treated parts, and modification dates).
- Build Logs: Records of every board configuration, including plate materials, foam types, and linked components.
- Group Buy Records: Tracking history from Interest Check (IC) to delivery, including vendor links and payment details.
- Gear Inventory: A full ledger of secondary items, including keycap sets, stabilizers, cables, and deskmats.
Export Formats and Use Cases
The system provides two distinct formats for extracting data, each suited to different management needs: 1. CSV Export: This format generates a ZIP file containing individual CSV files for each data category. This is the ideal format for users who wish to view or manipulate their records in external spreadsheet software for further analysis. 2. Photo-Inclusive ZIP Backup: For those seeking a total archive, this format packages all text records along with every high-resolution photo attached to the collection. This ensures that the visual history of builds and switches is preserved alongside the technical data.
Understanding the Restoration Process
The restoration of data is handled through an import system designed to protect existing records. It is important to note that importing a previous CSV or ZIP file adds the records back into the app as new entries. The system does not merge or overwrite existing items, which prevents accidental data loss during the process.
While basic item data can be restored by any user, storage location data—the hierarchical mapping of boxes, shelves, and drawers—is a specialized data relationship. Within a backup, this location mapping is only restored if the user has a Pro entitlement.
Securing Your Records with ThockLog
The risk of data loss on mobile devices is why we have integrated robust data management tools into the core of the application. ThockLog’s CSV/ZIP Export and Import features allow you to maintain a permanent, external copy of your collection’s history. These tools are available to all users for free, ensuring that every collector can secure their data regardless of their subscription status.
To ensure your years of keyboard data are protected and portable, you can download the application here: ThockLog on the App Store
Summary
Maintaining a digital history of a mechanical keyboard collection requires a proactive approach to data safety. By utilizing integrated CSV and ZIP export tools to create regular backups, collectors can protect their switch specs, lube logs, and build histories from hardware failure or loss, ensuring their records remain accessible for future builds. For a broader look at why keeping this data in one place beats juggling spreadsheets, see One App or Five Spreadsheets? Why Mechanical Keyboard Collectors Need a Single System.
This article organizes information from a recording and organizing perspective. If you notice an error or outdated information, please contact us. Last verified: July 2026
