Building a Common Image - Developing a common software image for the HP dc7900, Elite 8000 and 6000 Pro desktop models

Windows Automated Installation Kit (WAIK) which can be downloaded from the
Microsoft Download Center as a free download.
SYSPREP (System preparation tool)—This is a Microsoft tool that prepares the
operating system for imaging. This tool must be run before imaging a system and
then deploying that image.
SYSPREP.exe can be found on your operating system CD obtained either from HP or
Microsoft. SYSPREP, as well as other useful documentation and tools, is contained in
the named deploy.cab, located in the support\tools directory for Windows XP.
SYSPREP is located in the SYSPREP folder at %SYSTEMROOT%\system32\SYSPREP
for Windows Vista and Windows 7.
Advantages of a Common Image
Creating a common image has several advantages.
 Image reduction – By creating a product family-based common image, image
management becomes easier because the number of images that require
management is reduced.
 Image validation – By using the image preinstalled by HP, you will start with an
image that has already undergone extensive testing and validation with the
hardware on which it will be deployed. This will save considerable testing
resources in your environment. In addition, using the HP image as a base will
bypass the Microsoft Windows Activation process that requires each user to
activate their copy of Windows (Activation is only required in Windows XP,
Windows Vista and Windows 7).
 Operating System-controlled driver installation – By implementing the .inf file-
based driver installation method outlined in this white paper, it is assured that
hardware will be installed in the most optimal manner possible.
Limitations of a Common Image
While the use of a common image can be extremely advantageous, it is not without
caveats. Creating a common image causes a shift in the support liability from the
PC OEM back to the organization creating the common image.
It is also very important to be aware of the operating system license as well as
licensed applications that are part of the common image. Royalty-based
applications typically have strict guidelines surrounding deployment and usage. For
example, devices such as DVD have strict distribution restrictions regarding how
DVD software is distributed.
Please contact your Microsoft licensing representative for the proper operating
system license.