Why a computer won't successfully backup?

[mathgeek]

I have a windows 7, 64 bit OS, with a SP 1. I'm trying to use my windows action center to complete the back up. I'm trying to backup my documents and libraries, etc. to a disc in the D drive. Every time I try the backup it gets half way done and then gives me the error message: "Windows backup did not complete successfully"

Does anyone know what setting or what has to be changed in order for me to be able to successfully complete a backup? I've never had one be successful since I've gotten my laptop over a year ago.

 

[DelJo63]

the question is why "backup did not complete". can you find the Event Viewer and review the applications logs?
The typical problem is attempting to backup an active program or service from Windows itself.

btw: Avoid attempting to backup C:\ as that's the entire partition with the OS.
This form of backup is wasteful and not effective (ie you can't restore using it anyway).
Point your backup at %userprofile%\ instead which should complete.