trouble creating a system image backup

In Oct 2015, I tested Win10 but returned to Win7 (couldn't network with other computers successfully). Since then, i noticed that my SYSTEM RESERVED shows 49% fragmented and i can't defrag (or even analyze it). Today, i tried to create a system image backup. Using a portable drive that has 1.82Tb of free space, I am attempting to back up my computer which currently has 200Gb full. I get an error message that there's not enough space to create the shadow copy on the storage location. Yet, there clearly is.
Troubleshooting suggests i check the VSS and SPP apps in the event log. But i can't locate them.
Any suggestions?
thanks in advance..... again!

What program are you using to create the image?

The Backup and Restore program from System and Security tab in the Control Panel. It's worked fine before. But i haven't done it since i created a system backup right before i tried out Win10 (and subsequently uninstalled it.)

I'm sorry I don't have a Windows 7 OS to test this out. You might try the MS forums for an answer to this problem.

ok. thanks anyway. cheers
b

System Reserved partition can be defragmented after you have assign a drive letter to System Reserved partition. I believe this "there's not enough space to create the shadow copy on the storage location" error cause because the hard disk you are trying to create image for is full.