Enhancing existing Vista or Windows 7 images from IDE mode or native AHCI mode

Vista and Windows 7 have a native AHCI driver. If Vista or Windows 7 was installed while in IDE mode, a registry change will allow users to gracefully switch to AHCI mode using the Microsoft driver. See the Microsoft Knowledge Base Article at http://support.microsoft.com/kb/922976/en-us .

Corporate IT may be able to update an existing Vista or Window 7 image that was created in IDE mode to use the Intel AHCI driver. The process requires inserting the Intel AHCI drivers into the image in a pre-installation environment using the appropriate OS Tools.

Required software to insert the Intel AHCI driver:

•Windows Preinstallation Environment (WinPE) CD

•Windows OPK (OEM Preinstallation Kit) CD

•PKGMGR.EXE (Package Manager)

The OPK CD is not available for general download. It must be obtained through a Microsoft authorized distributor. PKGMGR.EXE is a tool that installs, uninstalls, configures, and updates features and packages for Vista and Windows 7.

For more information and instructions on OPK or PKGMGR.EXE, go to http://www.hp.com.

The process is as follows:

1.Boot into WinPE.

2.Run PKGMGR.EXE from OPK A sample command line is:

pkgmgr.exe /o:"C:\;C:\Windows" /n:"C:\AddAHCI\HP-AHCI.xml"

Where C:\AddAHCI\HP-AHCI.xml contains:

<?xml version="1.0" ?>

<unattend xmlns="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:asm.v3" xmlns:wcm="http:// schemas.microsoft.com/WMIConfig/2002/State">

<settings pass="offlineServicing">

<component name="Microsoft-Windows-PnpCustomizationsNonWinPE" processorArchitecture="x86"

publicKeyToken="31bf3856ad364e35" language="neutral" versionScope="nonSxS">

<DriverPaths>

<PathAndCredentials wcm:keyValue="1"> <Path>C:\AddAHCI</Path>

</PathAndCredentials>

</DriverPaths>

</component>

</settings>

</unattend>

3.Reboot the computer.

4.Enter F10 Setup and change SATA Emulation mode to AHCI.

5.Reboot the computer into the OS.

An existing Vista or Windows 7 image using the native AHCI driver can be updated to use the Intel AHCI driver (iastor.sys). The driver can be downloaded from www.hp.com.

NOTE: Be careful when moving an image to computer with a different chipset. The Device ID of the AHCI controller must match what is in the INF or the AHCI driver will fail and the computer will not boot.

6

Page 5 Page 7
Page 6
Image 6
HP 8200 tower manual Pkgmgr.exe /oC\C\Windows /nC\AddAHCI\HP-AHCI.xml
Page 5 Page 7

8200 tower specifications

The HP 8200 Tower is a robust desktop computer designed for professional environments, delivering performance and expandability for a variety of business needs. This workstation is part of HP's Elite series, known for its reliability and advanced technologies, making it a sound choice for companies requiring consistent operation.

One of the defining features of the HP 8200 Tower is its versatile processing power, powered by the Intel Core i5 and i7 processors. These processors offer a multi-core architecture, ensuring that users can efficiently handle multitasking and processor-intensive applications. With options for up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM, the HP 8200 Tower can smoothly run multiple applications simultaneously, making it suitable for tasks ranging from everyday office work to more demanding software like graphical design programs.

The system also provides a range of storage options, including traditional hard disk drives and faster solid-state drives, allowing users to select the balance of capacity and speed that best suits their needs. Additionally, the HP 8200 supports RAID configurations, enhancing data redundancy and performance, thereby protecting critical business data.

In terms of expandability, the HP 8200 Tower offers multiple PCIe slots for adding graphic cards, sound cards, or other expansion cards. This capability makes it adaptable for various purposes, whether that involves improving graphics performance for video editing or integrating specialized hardware for specific business functions.

The design of the HP 8200 Tower ensures efficient cooling and quiet operation. It features a tool-less chassis, allowing for easy upgrades and maintenance. The internal layout maximizes airflow, keeping components cool even under heavy workloads, an important feature for maintaining long-lasting performance.

Connectivity options are plentiful, with USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports, enabling speedy data transfer and peripheral connectivity. Additionally, integrated Gigabit Ethernet offers reliable networking capabilities, essential for seamless communication within a business environment.

The HP 8200 Tower showcases HP's commitment to sustainability, featuring energy-efficient components and a design aimed at reducing environmental impact. Overall, this powerful workstation combines performance, expandability, and energy efficiency, making it an excellent choice for any professional setting. With its blend of modern technologies and traditional reliability, the HP 8200 Tower stands out as a dependable tool for businesses looking to enhance productivity.
Top Page Image Contents