backup direct to pc

dunno if it will work the same. But could you not create a mount on pc, like you would if you want to record to it and use the mount to back up image to

Install this addon,Backup suite will allow you to backup to a HDD or a USB,plug a usb stick in mount it and backup to there.

I have attached the ipk file for you.

The problem with backing up to a USB only is, that too many boxes are fussy about the USB.