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12-09-08 Dell Software Updates Catalogs and Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager – Part 1
If you are using ConfigMgr 2007, or System Center Essentials (or are thinking of using either of these products), join our chat to discuss how Dell is Simplifying IT by providing Update Catalogs for both servers and workstations. Dell internal IT will lead the chat to discuss how the update catalogs make your life easier, and members of our product teams will also be on the chat to answer any questions you may have.
The Business Client Update Catalog
The Dell Business Client Update Catalog automates the patch process for systems updates on the Dell Precision workstation, Dell OptiPlex desktop, and Dell Latitude laptop platforms in a Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM/ConfigMgr) or System Center Essentials environment. The catalog file contains detailed information to determine which updates are required for the Dell business client systems and how to apply them. It can be used in conjunction with the software update management functionality of System Center Configuration Manager or System Center Essentials to provide automated updates for BIOS, firmware, drivers, and Dell applications.
The Server Update Catalog
The Dell Server Updates Catalog automates the patch process of system updates for Dell server platforms in a Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager or System Center Essentials environment. The catalog file contains detailed information to determine which updates are required for Dell servers and how to apply them.This can be used in conjunction with the software update management functionality of System Center Configuration Manager or System Center Essentials to provide automated BIOS, firmware, driver, and Dell application updates.
The Business Client Update Catalog
The Dell Business Client Update Catalog automates the patch process for systems updates on the Dell Precision workstation, Dell OptiPlex desktop, and Dell Latitude laptop platforms in a Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM/ConfigMgr) or System Center Essentials environment. The catalog file contains detailed information to determine which updates are required for the Dell business client systems and how to apply them. It can be used in conjunction with the software update management functionality of System Center Configuration Manager or System Center Essentials to provide automated updates for BIOS, firmware, drivers, and Dell applications.
The Server Update Catalog
The Dell Server Updates Catalog automates the patch process of system updates for Dell server platforms in a Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager or System Center Essentials environment. The catalog file contains detailed information to determine which updates are required for Dell servers and how to apply them.This can be used in conjunction with the software update management functionality of System Center Configuration Manager or System Center Essentials to provide automated BIOS, firmware, driver, and Dell application updates.
Technical Community - Background Reading
Chat Transcript
| DELL-ScottH | The official chat actually starts in an hour and a half |
| DELL-ScottH | Where do you work? |
| pcsukus | I am in WI in between Chicago and Milwaukee |
| DELL-ScottH | I miss the cold and snow; I bet you don't |
| pcsukus | This is likely not the forum for this, but I have to pass this on: http://www.divinecaroline.com/article/22111/61941-frightening-mall-santas. Well, it’s sleeting today. Yes, I don't miss it, but it’s nice when it snows, and I like to drive in it believe it or not |
| DELL-ScottH | Oh my. I usually type lol and don't mean it, but this time I actually did laugh out loud in my cube! |
| pcsukus | I can totally understand those kids’ fright. You in TX then Scott? |
| DELL-ScottH | Yes, sorry was just e-mailing that link…Austin |
| pcsukus | Hee hee. |
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| pcsukus | That is funny |
| DELL-ScottH | Too |
| DELL-ScottH | Hello mclanem |
| mclanem | Hello |
| pcsukus | Brb |
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| DELL-ScottH | Chat doesn't officially start for an hour and half; we are just testing connectivity and hanging out |
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| DELL-ScottH | Pc had a funny link |
| PeterCS | Sorry had to change my name |
| DELL-ScottH | http://www.divinecaroline.com/article/22111/61941-frightening-mall-santas |
| DELL-ScottH | Did you guys hear about the chat from twitter/techcenter/or myitforum? |
| PeterCS | Nope |
| DELL-ScottH | Hmmm...telepath? |
| mclanem | Ah, okay. I clicked on a link for a chat about software updates catalogs and SCCM from myitforum...is that what is on topic for today? |
| DELL-ScottH | Yes, Greg (ramseyg) from Dell IT is going to lead today on that topic |
| ramseyg_Dell | Yea. I could have made my username a little better, eh |
| mclanem | At 3 CST (4 EST) right? |
| PeterCS | Oh, I am sorry…e-mail. |
| DELL-ScottH | Yes, a little over an hour from now |
| PeterCS | <-- Way behind. |
| mclanem | Great. I will come back then. |
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| DELL-ScottH | <--- Always way behind...too much: twitter/email/web/work/phone/facebook/youtube/slashdot/ |
| PeterCS | I love not having people %%%% rails with servers when a server moves |
| PeterCS | Grrr |
| DELL-ScottH | Did you crunch a toe or lose a server? |
| PeterCS | Oops ship. Should have said “ship” |
| PeterCS | Not sh** |
| DELL-ScottH | Oh... :-) was trying to figure that out. Yeah, love how they leave them in the rack, usually a contractor that has no clue |
| PeterCS | Well in this case we were closing a facility, and the guy there says, “Okay shipped the servers.” But no rails showed up |
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| vinodh83 | Hello |
| DELL-ScottH | Hello! How are you? |
| vinodh83 | I am good. Just wanted to know if I could help on IT issues or what’s new with IT. I mean I could get help. I am new here on the Dell TechCenter |
| DELL-ScottH | The official chat starts in about 40 minutes, but until then we just hang out and chit-chat. Welcome then! |
| vinodh83 | Oh, okay |
| DELL-ScottH | Great to have you as a new member. What do you do? Anything I can help with right now? |
| vinodh83 | I am in collection. Recently completed five years in Dell |
| DELL-ScottH | Awesome. I'm on year two already; can't believe how fast it passed |
| vinodh83 | Do we get to address the IT issues when the chat starts |
| DELL-ScottH | The chat will mainly have external customers, not just Dell. What IT issues are you referring to? |
| vinodh83 | The tools we use sometimes are very slow and at times when the customer need help most |
| DELL-ScottH | Okay, this will not be the proper forum to address those issues. The Dell TechCenter is focused on customers and helping them solve their enterprise issues and solutions. This is not an internal chat. Probably best to voice those concerns with an official help ticket and possibly the internal employee storm tool |
| vinodh83 | Okay. So, what could I gain from joining the TechCenter. You could help me |
| DELL-ScottH | Although I'm always griping at Greg that they load too much stuff on my laptop |
| vinodh83 | Alright |
| DELL-ScottH | To get an idea of what the TechCenter is about, visit: http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/techcenter+wiki+guidelines and http://www.dell.com/techcenter |
| ramseyg_Dell | :) Yes. We love to load all the extra goodies on your latptop :) |
| DELL-ScottH | Greg, I just tweeted, so people should be joining soon |
| ramseyg_Dell | Great |
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| DELL-ScottH | Hello Chris |
| chris_davis | Hey |
| DELL-ScottH | Just hanging out, waiting for people to join. What company are you with? |
| chris_davis | Just listening in on the chat. Carol Gittinger hooked me up. I’m the engineering manager for onboard drivers here at Dell for Biz Client |
| DELL-ScottH | Cool, feel free to lurk, join, chat, whatever |
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| DELL-ScottH | Hello ccscott |
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| DELL-ScottH | Hello Josie |
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| mrxinu | Good morning |
| DELL-ScottH | Hello mrinxu and brian! |
| BrianMason | Howdy (using my best taxan here) |
| mrxinu | Ha ha, outstanding. More like, "hooow-dee!" |
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| DELL-ScottH | Hello brace |
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| DELL-ScottH | Hello Reed |
| DELL-ScottH | Hello Roger |
| brennels | Hey Scott how are you? |
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| reedracer | Hi guys! |
| DELL-ScottH | Doing great and running as fast as I can with Todd going to the new job |
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| brennels | Run, Forest, Run! |
| DELL-ScottH | Thanks everyone for joining! We'll kick it off in a few minutes |
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| DELL-ScottH | Couple of things to note for anyone new to the chats |
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| mrxinu | Whoa, follow request from someone at Dell. It's like magic stalking action ;) |
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| DELL-ScottH | Right-click on the URL links, or the chat client will kick you out. That is always fun, and we laugh at you when it happens |
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| ramseyg_Dell | Mrxinu, well if you're cool enough for reedracer to follow you, I probably should too :) |
| mrxinu | Ha ha, ack'd; laughing will ensue. Aw, shucks; that is true |
| DELL-ScottH | And you can also use Action, Recent Room History to catch up on earlier chat messages, and as always, jump in at anytime. We can weed out the multiple conversations, and it's fun to try to keep up, so here is the official start: Welcome! Thanks for joining our weekly chat sessions. This week’s topic is lead by Greg Ramsey (ramseyg) from internal Dell IT. Looks like Donnie from Dell IT is here too |
| Donnie-Dell | *wave* |
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| DELL-ScottH | Greg will be discussing the Dell Updates Catalog and how to integrate it into Microsoft System Center |
| DELL-ScottH | Greg, please introduce yourself |
| ramseyg_Dell | Hello, Greg here. As Scott mentioned, I'm one of the internal Dell IT guys |
| DELL-ScottH | Hello Amy, we just started. Use Action, Recent Room History to catch up |
| ramseyg_Dell | Donnie and I are on the team that handles ConfigMgr for managing our internal servers and workstation |
| DELL-ScottH | How many is that? Roughly? |
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| ramseyg_Dell | Somewhere around 130,000 systems globally |
| DELL-ScottH | Welcome Dustin, Ronst, and Angela! Use Action, Recent Room History to catch up. We just started |
| ramseyg_Dell | We've been working with our product groups (like Dustin_dell), and they have done a great job of helping us make it easier to manage Dell servers and workstations using ConfigMgr |
| Donnie-Dell | They better, or else we cut off their email |
| ramseyg_Dell | So we want to chat about that a bit today, give you some info, and answer any questions you may have. I see my colleague Angie has joined us also. Hi Angie |
| DELL-ScottH | Ha ha, can you cut off my e-mail, please :-) |
| ramseyg_Dell | And of course, what a great day for a chat! Patch Tuesday! Sorry 'bout that. Hopefully you're well on your way in the patch-testing process, and are ready for a small break. Okay, down to business |
| DELL-ScottH | That's a testament to how efficiently you guys have the process down |
| ramseyg_Dell | A brief overview: What are the Dell Updates Catalogs? We have two Catalogs, one for servers and one for workstations. You import these catalogs (one or both) into System Center Updates Publisher (SCUP) |
| DELL-ScottH | For reference later, some information: http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/dell+updates+catalogs |
| ramseyg_Dell | And once you have them in SCUP, you can publish them to your WSUS Server for your ConfigMgr central server |
| DELL-ScottH | What type of files are in the catalogs? |
| ramseyg_Dell | If you're familiar with software updates in ConfigMgr, the rest is easy. The catalog contains an XML file that has the definitions for each update |
| DELL-ScottH | I'm assuming BIOS and firmware drivers also? |
| ramseyg_Dell | How to detect, determine applicable/installed, and the content that ConfigMgr will use to download the updates for the software updates process |
| mclanem | Does this get the drivers into SCCM so that they can be used for OSD? |
| Donnie-Dell | Applications as well, Scott, like OMIA |
| DELL-ScottH | And OMSA too :-) |
| ramseyg_Dell | They can be used in the OSD process, but maybe not in the way you're hoping |
| Donnie-Dell | Yeah, and OMSA also :) |
| DELL-ScottH | Define OSD |
| reedracer | Does it create an inventory and reports? |
| ramseyg_Dell | In OSD (operating system deployment), you can use a task sequence to "install software updates." If you have approved and deployed these updates, they will install at that time. If you're talking about importing drivers into the OSD driver catalog, let's save that one for a chat in January :) |
| Donnie-Dell | It uses the normal inventory reports, Reed, but Greg and myself are planning to publish some special ones here once we get some time |
| reedracer | Sweet |
| ramseyg_Dell | We're releasing a product for servers that will allow you to easily import drivers for the OSD "auto apply drivers" and "apply driver package" task sequences |
| Josh | How often are driver updates released in this format for import into SCCM? |
| Donnie-Dell | Quarterly |
| ramseyg_Dell | (Word of caution: clicking on links can jet you from the chat; use a right-click: http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/dell+updates+catalogs |
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| ramseyg_Dell | This is our home page for updates on Dell TechCenter; lots of good info there |
| Dustin_Dell | Quarterly for the server updates, more frequently for the business client updates |
| ramseyg_Dell | Oops! We got reed...sorry reed, please come back |
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| ramseyg_Dell | FYI, we have a FAQ page here: http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/dell+custom+updates+faq |
| DELL-ScottH | Hello Dan! Welcome, use Action, Recent Room History to catch up |
| ramseyg_Dell | If you don't see the answer to a question, add it, and we'll see about getting it answered |
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| Dustin_Dell | And on top of planned updates, urgent updates will be released as part of a "hotfix" release |
| DELL-ScottH | Lol @reed |
| ramseyg_Dell | Sorry reed |
| mclanem | What about importing drivers for workstations to be used in OSD? |
| Donnie-Dell | Ha ha |
| DELL-ScottH | You can also wait for the transcript to come out tomorrow and follow all the links then |
| ramseyg_Dell | Sorry reed :( |
| DELL-ScottH | Your other right |
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| reed-I_did_right_click-racer | No problem. It was the pop-up blocker that got me |
| ramseyg_Dell | Mclanem, great question. We're working with our product teams to make this easier too—stay tuned :) |
| DELL-ScottH | Hello kdowding. Use Action, Recent Room History to catch up |
| ramseyg_Dell | Okay. back to the update catalogs |
| PeterCS | Sorry, I think I finally caught up. You just import the file into WSUS and that’s it eh? |
| ramseyg_Dell | This page will give you a little better feel for the admin experience, and the user experience: http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/detect+and+deploy+dell+updates+with+configmgr |
| brennels | This looks great guys, good work |
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| Donnie-Dell | There are some certificate considerations for third-party updates in WSUS, but once you get those figured out they appear just like the normal security updates you get from Microsoft |
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| ramseyg_Dell | As you can see, once you publish the updates to ConfigMgr, and run your normal software updates synchronization, updates appear in the admin console like any other Microsoft update |
| DELL-ScottH | Greg, I like that page, screen shots are great. Maybe we can record a demo? |
| ramseyg_Dell | And the second screen shot is what you can give a user if you desire to give them the option before pushing to them |
| Donnie-Dell | Yeah, we can do a demo |
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| Dell_-_AngelaQ | And post it on YouTube |
| ramseyg_Dell | Here's another important catch |
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| DELL-ScottH | Heck yeah, I'll follow up with ya'll in e-mail |
| mrxinu | Great article |
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| ramseyg_Dell | To inventory Dell hardware and be able to determine update applicability, you have to install what we call a Dell OpenManage Inventory agent |
| PeterCS | In previous versions of SUU there have been times where old firmware would not get upgraded because of age, etc. Then you would have to do an intermediate FW and install and then use SUU. Does the SCCM integration help with any of this? |
| ramseyg_Dell | So when you first import, your Dell systems will only show one update as applicable |
| DELL-ScottH | Where do you get OMIA? Regular support page? |
| ramseyg_Dell | You approve and deploy this update, and after the reboot, the agent will detect updates, and have them ready for the next Windows update scan (which then reports the information back up through ConfigMgr) |
| PeterCS | Gotchya |
| ramseyg_Dell | Here's a link for a better, even more detailed guide: http://tinyurl.com/5t4xhx |
| mrxinu | Ooo, I'm a fan of better (clicks) |
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| ramseyg_Dell | Big thanks to Dell_angelaq and Dell-dustin for that one. Those guys spent a lot of time getting this process wired up |
| Donnie-Dell | *claps* |
| DELL-ScottH | Ah, Dustin, Angela will you sign my copy? |
| mrxinu | *mourns the loss of ronst* |
| ramseyg_Dell | That doc (Acrobat PDF, 6 MB) will take you through the entire process: certificate stuff, etc. |
| Dell_-_AngelaQ | Aure |
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| reed-I_did_right_click-racer | Cool |
| mrxinu | Ha ha, reed; love the name |
| ramseyg_Dell | I haven't mentioned this yet, but the catalogs can also be used in System Center Essentials |
| DELL-ScottH | Welcome Scott. Use Action, Recent Room History to catch up |
| DELL-ScottH | Nice. The "cheaper" one |
| PeterCS | How much time do you think this takes to implement? Said another way, should I engage Dell for people to help out, or is this something I can do without much trouble? |
| ramseyg_Dell | One might ask, "What's the cost for such wonderful catalogs?” Free! |
| Dell-RogerF | And did you say WSUS too? |
| ramseyg_Dell | Petercs, if you're a ConfigMgr admin, this is something you can handle |
| Donnie-Dell | Yeah, Roger. ConfigMgr and SCE essentially use WSUS for patching |
| PeterCS | SCCM |
| ramseyg_Dell | I would consider this easier than many of the things you may do in ConfigMgr |
| PeterCS | Okay, thanks. I am the SCOM guy. I gotta talk to the SCCM guy ;) |
| DELL-ScottH | @peter, I bet you can use the information on the TechCenter (knowing that you can ask questions right on the page) and get it going, especially since you know the experts are looking for your questions |
| ramseyg_Dell | We're all about simplifying IT :) |
| PeterCS | Good deal |
| ramseyg_Dell | ** You can't use this functionality with WSUS alone...you have to use it through ConfigMgr or SCE |
| reed-I_did_right_click-racer | Is this OMCA the same one used in Altiris? |
| Donnie-Dell | Right, sorry if I confused |
| Dustin_Dell | I am not a super WSUS expert, but for Microsoft experts, if you know how to use the WSUS API directly you can use WSUS standalone |
| ramseyg_Dell | Ah, Dustin, the Magic man! Shake and Bake! :) |
| Donnie-Dell | Not exactly sure, Reed. Dustin, do you know? |
| DELL-ScottH | Dustin opens the can of hack-worms! |
| ramseyg_Dell | Another thing to mention, supported models |
| Dustin_Dell | I don't claim I know how, just that there are possibilities |
| ramseyg_Dell | http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/dell+custom+updates+supported+models |
| ramseyg_Dell | Servers: pretty much everything we currently support (Dustin/Angela, chime in if you know) |
| Dell_-_AngelaQ | The only issue is that *using the WSUS admin console*, you cannot see or modify any custom or hidden updates |
| BrianMason | Did I read something recently that said you also needed certifications for this to work? |
| ramseyg_Dell | On the workstation side, here's the current list: Dell OptiPlex 960, Dell Latitude E-series Notebooks (E4200, E4300, E5400, E5500, E6400, E6400atg, and E6500), Dell Precision M2400, M440 (this is 0), M6400 |
| ramseyg_Dell | BrianMason, certifications, yes, but it can be a self-signed certification |
| Donnie-Dell | Yeah, Brian. It's detailed on this site and the document Greg linked earlier |
| Dustin_Dell | Petercs, to your question of how much time to implement, I believe this is something any admin can do and with the exceptions of getting your third-party trusts set correctly it is a very short implementation time |
| mclanem | That is a short list of workstations. Are you planning on expanding that list in the future? |
| ramseyg_Dell | Donnie put together a great "readers digest condensed version" of the PDF I mentioned earlier: http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/dell+custom+updates+installation |
| PeterCS | @dustin thanks! |
| BrianMason | Self-signed to just my servers will be a breeze |
| ramseyg_Dell | There's a link on there with brief mention of certifications; the PDF gives you the detail |
| Donnie-Dell | To servers and clients, Brian |
| Donnie-Dell | Certifcate details: http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/dell+custom+updates+certficates |
| BrianMason | Right, I meant clients on my servers (as opposed to workstations which we won't do) |
| ramseyg_Dell | And the great thing about these updates, like Donnie mentioned, you can use standard ConfigMgr Web reports (the canned ones) to see this data |
| DELL-ScottH | Man, you guys have been doing a ton of behind-the-scenes work on the site. Awesome! |
| ramseyg_Dell | Well Scott, you had a few days in Vegas...while the cat's away |
| Donnie-Dell | @mclanem, we are constantly asking the people in charge to expand that list; we would love to hear customer requirements! |
| ramseyg_Dell | A couple other notes about SCUP |
| Dell_-_AngelaQ | The catalog will expend to cover all new biz client systems |
| reed-I_did_right_click-racer | *concurs* also, I love the Wetpaint, too |
| ramseyg_Dell | We mentioned that the server catalog is updated quarterly, and the client catalog is more frequent (I think monthly) |
| mclanem | Well, my two big requirements are supporting the OptiPlex line (as many as possible, but at least the future ones) and getting those drivers available for OSD |
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| Dell_-_AngelaQ | We are adding hotfix to server catalog, so it will also release between quarters |
| Dustin_Dell | Mclanem, to your question of this is a short list of workstations and what else we are planning: Right now supported in the Catalog it will mostly be latest platforms and going forward. The cool thing about SCUP though is you can import any third-party updates (whatever you want)—I believe Donnie and Greg are working on this—but a how-to guide to take older model BIOS updates and script them into SCUP |
| ramseyg_Dell | When those catalogs update, you have to actually run the SCUP tool again to sync the SCUP tool with the Dell catalog. This is a feature with all things SCUP...all catalogs require this |
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| ramseyg_Dell | Yes, we are working on some stuff |
| PeterCS | Will the catalog add updates for say the BASP teaming stuff? |
| reed-I_did_right_click-racer | I can see some scripting to that would bring the updates into OSD fairly straightforward |
| mclanem | Is there an e-mail notification available for when these catalogs update? |
| Dell_-_AngelaQ | Not yet |
| PeterCS | Or RSS? |
| ramseyg_Dell | For example, we're working on a custom update for installing OMCI; after you see a few examples, it's fairly straightforward |
| Dell_-_AngelaQ | There is a requirement |
| ramseyg_Dell | @mclanem, we're working with our product teams to make it easier for notifications |
| Dustin_Dell | Ha ha, yes they are beating us up for this :D But, yes, we are working to make this happen |
| ramseyg_Dell | For now, we'll probably mention the update on the Dell TechCenter site; if you watch that page, you'll probably catch the info there |
| Dustin_Dell | Petercs, for your BASP question do you mean server or client? |
| PeterCS | Server |
| DELL-ScottH | Maybe get it as part of the "technical Subscriptions" updates: http://support.dell.com/support/notifications/managesubscriptions.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=gen |
| PeterCS | And then maybe pro tools for the clients |
| Dustin_Dell | In the server catalog there are two types of Broadcom updates, one for stand-alone base drivers only (for those people who don't use BASP) and another for the folks who have BASP installed |
| Donnie-Dell | Might be able to get www.dell.com\systemcenter to post it as well. Based on your configuration the applicable one will detect and so applicable |
| ramseyg_Dell | Yes, thanks for mentioning that, Donnie. We do have a new home page for systemcenter at the link Donnie mentions above |
| PeterCS | Nice |
| Dustin_Dell | I can't answer for the client one right now, as I am not as close to the daily details of it, but can try to check while we are on this chat |
| PeterCS | Okay. It’s not as important but it will be asked |
| ramseyg_Dell | That's the info in a nutshell. Any questions related to Dell updates catalogs (we'll open for additional questions after that). Please review this link: http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/dell+updates+catalogs |
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| ramseyg_Dell | And as it's a wiki, we want your content also, so feel free to add or to add a comment at the bottom of any page, and we'll try to include that information |
| Dustin_Dell | Petercs, the client catalog has base drivers only currently |
| DELL-ScottH | Yes, if you end up hacking/scripting something that is useful, please share |
| PeterCS | Okay, fair enough |
| Dustin_Dell | But with plans to expand as soon as they are ready |
| BrianMason | Does it work on s2k8x64? Any gotchyas? How long have you had it running? |
| mrxinu | *again mourns the loss of reed* |
| mclanem | So, if I use the auto apply updates during a task sequence, will it install drivers for hardware that might not have a driver like the soundcard, or will it only update the drivers? |
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| ramseyg_Dell | Did I mention that the catalogs are free? (just checking) |
| ramseyg_Dell | Welcome back, Reed |
| Reed_Porter | Good to be back |
| Dustin_Dell | Brianmason, yes does work on W2k8 x64—no gotchas I am aware of. I had it running since Dell started supporting Windows 2008 (I believe a year now?) |
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| Dustin_Dell | Mrxinu, how the drivers are updated depends on their install package. Some install packages are just driver updates, where others are "application like" install packages that include software and drivers |
| mrxinu | I asked a question about drivers? |
| ramseyg_Dell | @mclanem, we're not 100 percent certain on your question about auto-apply drivers. We'll have to investigate. I can tell you for sure that you'll need to get the OpenManage Inventory agent installed first |
| BrianMason | Can this cure cancer? |
| mrxinu | Oh, mclanem, gotcha; I'm just happy to be here. This is outstanding information |
| Donnie-Dell | I do know there will be some touch-n-go with the OMIA; will have to investigate the OSD drive question |
| DELL-ScottH | @brian lol |
| Reed_Porter | Predictive response, what next Dustin? |
| Dustin_Dell | No, but we are working on it, by keeping your servers working so the community can cure it :D |
| mrxinu | @dustin_dell brilliant response |
| Donnie-Dell | Wow, that was a PG response if I ever heard one |
| mrxinu | Ha ha, indeed |
| BrianMason | :) |
| mclanem | Are you looking for early adopters or beta testers for the automated integration of drivers for OSD? |
| ramseyg_Dell | @brianmason, we should probably add that disclaimer to the bottom of the Web pages...Not known to cure cancer. Doesn't give you the ability to walk on water, and doesn't give you the ability to completely patch a server without a reboot |
| Dustin_Dell | Thanks, I try. Ah, the last one was a shot at us I think ;) Well, and Microsoft. We will be soon, on the server side. I don't know about the workstation side |
| DELL-ScottH | Greg, that is my new email sig line: awesome |
| ramseyg_Dell | @mclanem, the server deployment kit will be released in January. We'll have a chat around mid-January on it. The beta has closed. We'll have to get some more information on the workstation side as far as driver import and OSD. Not sure of the timeline there |
| mclanem | We don't have too many servers, but we are all about getting the drivers for the workstations |
| Reed_Porter | Nice |
| ramseyg_Dell | Any other general questions? Open season :) |
| PeterCS | What is OM? |
| Donnie-Dell | OpenManage |
| Dustin_Dell | OpenManage (brand name for Dell Systems Management product tiers) |
| mrxinu | Are there any transcripts of previous sessions by chance? |
| Donnie-Dell | Unless you are Dustin, then it's a meditative sound. |
| DELL-ScottH | http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/openmanage+systems+management |
| PeterCS | Sorry, that was meant as a joke |
| Dustin_Dell | http://www.dell.com/openmanage |
| DELL-ScottH | Yes, many transcripts...hold for link |
| PeterCS | :| |
| mclanem | Are these chats held on a regular basis? |
| mrxinu | @petercs, you got noobified, sir =( |
| PeterCS | Yeah |
| mrxinu | They've got a whiteboard at Dell with your name on it, and it just got one big frownie face |
| PeterCS | He he he |
| Reed_Porter | The guy that travelled with Luxwanna Troi (geek card renewed) |
| DELL-ScottH | Chats are every week. Here is the list of up upcoming and previous chats with transcripts: http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/chat+topics+and+transcripts |
| Donnie-Dell | Hah |
| mrxinu | mrxinu (Smartass), petercs (noobcake), reed (link clicker) |
| BrianMason | Gotta run. Thanks! |
| ramseyg_Dell | We'll work on getting a YouTube demo together this week to talk about dell updates |
| mrxinu | Take it easy, Brian |
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| DELL-ScottH | They are also listed and updated right on the home page: http://www.delltechcenter.com |
| ramseyg_Dell | Next week's chat is a continuation chat on this one. We'll be here to answer any questions, clarify stuff, etc, etc. |
| mrxinu | @dell-scotth, thanks man; bookmarking |
| DELL-ScottH | Let me know if I can help |
| Reed_Porter | Very nice, Greg and all, thanks for so much |
| ramseyg_Dell | Here are the chat topics coming up: http://www.delltechcenter.com/page/chat+topics+and+transcripts |
| ramseyg_Dell | Dell Client Configuration Utility (DCCU) at the beginning of January |
| DELL-ScottH | Alright, looks like we are coming to an end; check out the link Greg just gave for the upcoming topics |
| ramseyg_Dell | If you're not familiar with it, you want to be—trust me |
| DELL-ScottH | Next week we will continue on this thread |
| ramseyg_Dell | Allows you to configure BIOS, etc, using software distribution |
| PeterCS | Thanks, guys |
| Dustin_Dell | Sorry Petercs, I am in question-answer mode. I missed the detection of sarcasm |
| Donnie-Dell | We encourage everyone to give this a try before next week so we can answer any questions you might have |
| ramseyg_Dell | Keep an eye on TechCenter for our Rock Star video |
| DELL-ScottH | Feel free to hang out and keep going with this chat as long as necessary |
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| mrxinu | @dustin-dell, he even punctuated the question with “roflcoptor” |
| PeterCS | Hard to show sarcasm over chat |
| PeterCS | Np |
| mclanem | Thanks for the info |
| DELL-ScottH | **really** No, you don't say |
| ramseyg_Dell | Thanks everyone for your time; send us your feedback. Tell us what you want to see more (and less) of |
| mrxinu | Appreciated |
| brennels | Thanks for the information Scott, good chat session |
| ramseyg_Dell | We'll hang out for a little while in case there are additional Qs. |
| PeterCS | I like <sarcasm> Really! </sarcasm> |
| brennels left. | |
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| Reed_Porter | This is so much more engaging than a webcast, I liked it |
| DELL-ScottH | If you have any questions, just start a thread at the bottom of any page. They all bubble up to the main discussion thread, and we will be happy to answer |
| Donnie-Dell | Good |
| Dustin_Dell | I love <>tags </> |
| DELL-ScottH | Thanks Reed, appreciate that feedback |
| ramseyg_Dell | @reed_porter, good. Let us know what else you would like to chat on |
| DELL-ScottH | http://www.delltechcenter.com/thread |
| ramseyg_Dell | And Scott, correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe chat is open 24/7 |
| DELL-ScottH | Yeah, but usually nobody is here |
| ramseyg_Dell | So if we have a few peeps that want to discuss something, we can always break open a chat |
| Reed_Porter | Neat |
| DELL-ScottH | Yeah, chat is always on |
| Dell-RogerF | And recorded |
| Reed_Porter | Hey @delltechcenter didn't tweet the chat |
| DELL-ScottH | Yes, and e-mailed nightly to myself and Roger :-) |
| ramseyg_Dell | :) @good point on the "and recorded" :) |
| DELL-ScottH | Did too, about three times |
| Donnie-Dell | Will have to keep Greg on a leash then |
| ramseyg_Dell | ...better be a big leash |
| PeterCS | Alright, guys thanks! You have been very helpful. Have a good night. I have to go drive through the blizzard |
| DELL-ScottH | @reed, four times actually |
| ramseyg_Dell | @petercs stay safe in the snow! |
| DELL-ScottH | Check your client :-) |
| Donnie-Dell | Seeya Peter! |
| DELL-ScottH | Drive safe |
| Reed_Porter | Remember, my autoit3 skillz are sitting idle |
| Reed_Porter | Night |
| Josh left. | |
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| mrxinu | Take care folks |
| mrxinu left. | |
| ramseyg_Dell | Big thanks also to all the Dell team on the line |
| Dell_-_AngelaQ | Nice chating with you all. Thanks and I need to go for my next meeting |
| DELL-ScottH | Thanks to Greg, Donnie, Angela, Dustin…who did I miss? |
| Reed_Porter left. | |
| DELL-ScottH | Oh and all you customers! |
| Dell_-_AngelaQ left. | |
| Donnie-Dell | Thanks for hosting, as always, Scott! |
| DELL-ScottH | Couldn't ask for better users, you guys rock |
| Dustin_Dell | Yeah thanks to the customers and who use the products we create; nice to know they weren't just posted and never used ;) |
| DELL-ScottH | So are you guys planning to use the TechCenter pages as the main distro/helping pages? We use Google analytics, and I can get you reports on stats |
| PeterCS left. | |
| ramseyg_Dell | Yes, we want to make these the main helping pages, with supporting links to the other docs, which can be difficult to find |
| Donnie-Dell | I think we are going to be posting a lot of Dell-specific system center stuff here, so those reports might be nice |
| dan_ left. | |
| ramseyg_Dell | I agree |
| DELL-ScottH | Great, let me know if you need some help on the demo. I’ve got Camtasia installed on an XPS laptop if you need to borrow it. Would be nice to have for next week’s chat |
| ramseyg_Dell | I agree. We'll try to get it done Wednesday or Thursday |
| Dell-RogerF | Also, per the question on notification of new catalog updates, we could do that with just a TechCenter page that people could follow through e-mail notifications |
| DELL-ScottH | Yeah, just a single page with a link to update in bold, that could work. Set a watch on the page |
| Scott_Ewing left. | |
| ramseyg_Dell | Yeah, I think we'll have to go that way for now...so only one manual step :) |
| Donnie-Dell | That would be cool. Got to find some way to automate the posting of that information then. It's the manual steps that kill it. |
| Dell-RogerF | Seems like a reasonable ask to PG |
| Donnie-Dell | Absolutely. Well, gotta go. Thanks again everyone! |
| ramseyg_Dell | Yep, we're working with Dustin on that one. Thanks everyone! great chat! |
| DELL-ScottH | Yes, great chat. Thanks again, and see you next week |
| Dell-RogerF | Thanks again! |
TDA-Terry |
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, Dec 10 2008, 1:23 PM EST
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