I have an N900 with the famous non-functioning USB port. It just came off the motherboard one day when it was charging. I sent it to be repaired by a place recommended by Nokia. They sent it back to me saying they couldn't fix it.

I have since bought a used N900. I can use the bluetooth synch in the system tools and transfer Contacts and Calendar info, but it does not transfer my SMS messages.

I can make a "backup" from the broken phone and browse the harddrive and extract the backup file using bluetooth and my computer. If I open up the backup file,...what files do I need to extract from the compressed backup file and where do I put them in the 'new' phone to transfer my SMS messages?

I have searched with Google and on this site and haven't found anyone with my problem. Although, I am sure there must be someone out there that has experienced this. Or maybe, they just gave up on the poor N900 after they lost 'connectability' I guess I am a glutton for punishment. I love the N900.

Also, if it isn't too much of a bother, is there anything I can do to this 'new' one to prevent this from happening again?

Thanks in advance for any help you guys can offer.

Use the default backup application.
Backup what you need.
Transfer to new device, via SD Card or whatever.
Open Backup application on new device.
Import Backup.

Get your old device repaired, it fairly easy if you have a bit of soldering knowledge, if not it can be done for a small cost.

Reinforce your new uUSB in the same method if you require.

Don't use cheap/unknown chargers.
Bend the lock pins down on the charger a bit, so there's less resistance disconnecting the charger.
And finally take extra care with your uUSB port, make sure it's in a save place when charging or transfering data.

I figured it out. I just copied the /home/user/.rtcom-eventlogger/el.db file from one to the other. All messages are exactly as they should be. Thanks for the response.