Single Image

[Dan & Jenny]

Dear All
Our company have a lot dell OptiPlex PC in different model(from GX1 ~
GX270), Now we keep one image for each model of OptiPlex pc. Our image is
make by sysprep and deploy by Ghostcast Server. My question is how can I
make single-image for all model of OptiPlex pc. This will save a lot my time
to update the image.


Thks

 

[Guest]

XP is sensitive to hardware configurations, specifically onboard controller
in the Mobo. You'd need to check the physical differences with the various
Optiples Mobos, if any. Then try using one with the other to confirm if it
will run.

 

[Mike Kolitz]

We have a single image for the majority of our platforms. The only time
that you'll need to create a separate image is when the HAL types are
different. For example, we have a separate image for Optiplex machines that
have Hyperthreading support, because the HAL is different - Multiprocessor
(for hyperthreading) as opposed to uniprocessor.

However, as long as the HAL is the same, you can provide the necessary
drivers to make your image work on other systems.

 

[Shenan Stanley]

Our company have a lot dell OptiPlex PC in different model(from
GX1 ~ GX270), Now we keep one image for each model of OptiPlex pc.
Our image is make by sysprep and deploy by Ghostcast Server. My
question is how can I make single-image for all model of OptiPlex pc.
This will save a lot my time to update the image.

Perhaps the following web pages will help you.
I have started avoiding the imaged installation because of the upkeep
involved.
It is useful for lab environments and the likes, however.

You can use SysPrep and/or RIS installs if you like. Adding the correct
drivers is all that is really required - to your base image of course. I
know others who rip out the correct registry sections and insert the proper
one for completely different hardware types - although I cannot say I like
that method.

It seems easier, at least to me, to make an unattended installation method
that works with all hardware types and then use ghost to mass-distribute
when needed. Being that you are using various Optiplex machines, the
sysprep and/or just having all the different drivers involved available on
the image may be all that you need.

Unattended Install over Network:
http://unattended.sourceforge.net/

Unattended Install with CD/DVD:
http://unattended.msfn.org/

Single image (XP) for many different hardware types:
http://www.gc.peachnet.edu/www/wbeck/W2KXP.htm#Master