C-R-M: OT- Best Hard Disk Imaging Software for XP ?

Off Topic:

I'm asking for opinions on best hard disk imaging software for a Windows XP
system.
I want to periodically make a binary image of a partitioned drive so I don't
have to go through the painful process of re-installing all of my software
after (inevitably) reloading Windows XP.

I'm looking for something that can do full a image back up to & retrieve
from a USB external drive.
Needs to be from a partioned drive where I have most of the data and
executables on D: but all of the registry and installation stuff on C:

If you have personal experience with a package that does this I would
appreciate any tips / links. Especially any "gotcha"s and/or really nice
features.
I'll be Googling on my own, of course!

Thanks!
JCD