Help backup options (non-rooted)

[krokus]

While I am computer savvy, and can hold my own on *nix boxen, I have not had the time to hack around on Android stuff much. The forums here have been useful, but have managed to get into a spot that I could use some pointers.

My phone upgraded to ZVE awhile back, but there appears to be some other type of update it needs, to restore my service. (So says the company store person.) I am unwilling to let them just go wipe out my data, so I am looking for other options.

I have not been able to get Titanium or Helium/Carbon to work.

As a part checking out options, I loaded the drivers and the mobile support tool. Now I do not get the option to connect to the phone as a mass storage device, which I was going to use to at least pull as many files over as I could find.

I have tried saving as much data as possible on the SD card, but many things are already stored in the internal storage. (With the goal being to not have the SD card in the phone during the upgrade.)

Sorry for rambling, I am just trying to get this out, so I can get my phone back. It is holding up other efforts in life.

 

[krokus]

I did see the service mode topic, and wonder if that would help me, at least for the time being. My phone info currently shows no phone number, and an inaccurate MIN. The IMEI looks correct, based on my faulty memory.

 

[Rukbat]

Try Helium, also at the Play store.

 

[krokus]

I think I tried that one, too. I will double-check.

 

[krokus]

When I look for Helium Backup, I do not get a search result with that app. I get:
Droid 2 Recovery Bootstrap
AppSync
KeyChain

Update: When specifying the app from CWM, I get a "Not compatible" message.

 

[krokus]

Every link I have checked, so far, shows making a backup and wiping as part of installing any new ROM. The one thing I cannot find, is how to make backups (of app data) without having a phone that is already rooted. Have I missed that piece, some how?