HP Linux Server Management Software - Manual (Page 6)

Introduction 6
Introduction
SmartStart Scripting Toolkit
The SmartStart Scripting Toolkit is a server deployment product that delivers an unattended automated
installation for high-volume server deployments. This document describes how to best utilize the Toolkit to
configure HP ProLiant servers. It also contains information about the Toolkit utilities and how to use them in
an unattended environment. This document does not include information about installing the operating
system.
The Toolkit is designed for IT experts with experience in scripting operating system installations and
configuring ProLiant server hardware.
CAUTION: Improper use of the Toolkit utilities can result in loss of critical data. Because of the
potential data-loss risk, only experienced individuals should use the Toolkit utilities. Before
using the Toolkit, all necessary precautions must be taken to ensure that mission-critical
systems remain online if a failure occurs.
Microsoft Windows Preinstallation Environment
Microsoft® Windows® Preinstallation Environment is a small footprint of the Windows Server®
environment that enables you to run tools in a 32- or 64-bit Windows® environment. Because Windows®
PE is based on the Windows® kernel running in protected mode, only a subset of features and APIs are
available in this environment. This document is applicable to Windows® PE 2.1 and 3.0 only and is not
backward compatible with previous versions of Windows® PE.
Windows® PE enables you to install the Windows® operating system, establish a connection with
network servers, and perform hardware configuration using the SmartStart Scripting Toolkit. You can use
Windows® PE to customize and configure your servers before the operating system is installed.
Windows® PE 2.1 can be obtained by downloading the Microsoft® Windows® Automated Installation
Kit for Windows Vista® SP1 and Windows Server® 2008 from the Microsoft® website
(
http://www.microsoft.com ).
Windows® PE 3.0 can be obtained by downloading the Microsoft® Windows® Automated Installation
Kit for Windows 7® and Windows Server® 2008 R2 from the Microsoft® website
( http://www.microsoft.com ).
Minimum requirements
This document is intended for IT personnel who are familiar with creating scripts, using a scripting
language, creating bootable media, and performing unattended installations.
Before beginning the deployment process, be sure to have the following items available:
• SmartStart Scripting Toolkit Windows® Edition
• HP SmartStart Scripting Toolkit Windows Edition User Guide