Deploy a image...

[John Smith]

What's the best way to deploy a runtime image?

My runtime image is to big for CD, so here is what I'd like to do.
After TA runs, I copy the image to a HD and take that HD to my target
machine, then let FBA run and set everything up, then I instal programs and
configure those programs. At this time everything is complete except I need
to get that image onto a few other computers. Is there anyway I can create
a image of the HD (after FBA has run) and burn that image to a DVD then boot
off that DVD and expand that image onto a blank HD?


The way I do it now, is use Power Quest, which will allow me to create a
image of a HD and install that image onto a blank HD. I'd prefer to use
this, but I don't think I can use a non-MS product to deploy a XP embedded
image. I assume I'm correct on that one.


Any ideas,
Thanks

 

[JC-Arrow OCS]

There's no issue with Deploying the image using your method. Remember to
include the system Cloning tool component in your image, so the last piece
of FBA will run, and randomize the new target (reset the SID) Powerquest,
Ghost, ETC are all regularly practiced methods for deployment. there are
alternates, so that you don't have to carry a Hard Drive around, but you can
use this method just fine.

you can use a bootable DVD as well, providing the target hardware recognizes
bootable DVD device.

Here's a link to setting up XPE for mass deployment on MSDN...
http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/d...howtocreaterun-timeimageformassdeployment.asp

look deeper in this section of MSDN, and you will find a ton of info.

HTH,
JC

--
John Coyne
Windows XP Embedded Black Belt
Windows CE Black Belt
Arrow Electronics, OCS division
When replying directly to this message remove the NOSPAM_ from the address

 

[John Smith]

Thanks for the quick response

I believe we are going to use sysprep for the SID. Now, since that method
is ok, what about if I need to sell that pc to a outside vendor?
The MS OEM that we deal with is going to put the license sticker on the pc
for us, however some of these pc's will be sold to different customers.

Will the use of power quest still work? Will that cause a problem? The IT
staff at the company I work for has an enterprise license with Power Quest
and that how I got ahold of it. The only tool I use is called
pqiddeploy.exe and that tool expanded the image onto a pc.

Any thoughts?

 

[JC-Arrow OCS]

You may or may not have issues with Sysprep, depending on how your image was
built... I have seen it work, but all the components have to be there. if
you're not going to use the system cloning tool component, the best would be
to use Ghostwalker or something of the effect...

BTW, yes you can still sell your devices after imaging in the fashion you
describe...

Also remember, XPE is not licensed like XP Pro, in that there are several
restrictions as to what you can and can't do. I would review the Additional
license provisions with your legal team and make that determination.
Licenses can only be bought through the embedded distributors, or directly
from Microsoft, if you're that big.

HTH,
JC

--
John Coyne
Windows XP Embedded Black Belt
Windows CE Black Belt
Arrow Electronics, OCS division
When replying directly to this message remove the NOSPAM_ from the address