Can I move my Config Directory location?

[jecilop]

I've looked through here but do not see this specifically. I got as far as info on customizing Environmental Variables (via the manual and then this link) , but this doesn't seem to lead me to something unique for this program. I know people have customized this location, but I can't figure it out.

My goal is to keep my directory in my cloud drive location for the backup aspect.

[eschwartz]

Yes, environment variables are general computing concepts.

calibre's environment variables are calibre-specific. Did you try setting it? As per the first link you referenced?

[jecilop]

That's just it. I can't connect those dots.
I see
" CALIBRE_CONFIG_DIRECTORY - sets the directory where configuration files are stored/read. "

from the first link, but I can't figure out how to modify that. There's no way that I can find within Calibre to change it if it's even possible.

The second link is, as you say, general. Now I realize that upon a second look at the way the manual includes and words it (" See How to set environment variables in windows " ) . I thought it would list something for Calibre, but it doesn't.

[BetterRed]

@jecilop - close calibre, copy the existing calibre configuration folder to where you want it to be, rename it if you're inclined, then follow the arrows in the attachment.

The path to the new location must be precise, best to cut & paste from Windows Explorer address bar

Now rename the original calibre configuration folder to say calibresave

Run calibre and go to Prefs->Misc-> and click the Open... button. If it opens at your new location then success, back it up, and then go delete calibresave.

BR

[eschwartz]

Environment variables are set as per the second link, in the OS. Any running program will inherit all environment variables. calibre will use the value set in that environment variable if available.

If it was to be set from within calibre, then a) it would have to go in the config directory. catch-22 -- which one? and b) the manual would not tell you how to set a system environment variable.

[chaley]

Alternatively, start calibre from a command prompt. I have several different configurations that I use, so for me changing the system environment variable doesn't solve my problem.

Example for one of my test configurations:

d:\CBH_Data\calibre.git>type test_calibre_small.bat
set CALIBRE_CONFIG_DIRECTORY=D:\CBH_Data\calibre.git\config_test_small
calibre-debug -g

d:\CBH_Data\calibre.git>

[jecilop]

SOLVED!
Thank you @BetterRed. That was EXACTLY what I needed. I didn't realize that I create a "New" one. Now I've connected some of the dots better. I've tested including running some plug-ins just to see.
This reply works best for me as it operates under the principle of the listener not being familiar enough with some of these how to's but comfortable with moving navigation a PC's in's and out's.

I do notice that it is running more slowly, but that could be because it is also backing up the directory to the cloud at the moment. I will watch it in the future. At least I know how to "move it back" or elsewhere now if needed.
Thanks again.