Pentagon Systems

Software Distribution System

The application is simple, the pay-back is enormous.

Introduction

SDS Modules

System Requirments

Support / Contacts

License Agreement

Software Distribution Manager

Software Distribution Client


Introduction

Welcome to Pentagon Systems Software Distribution System (SDS).   Pentagon's SDS allows network administrators to effortlessly install software and update systems across corporate networks.  Within an hour, you can be in a position to install software on hundreds of nodes.

The Distribution Manager is the primary tool used by network administrators to create and manage Software Distribution Jobs andDistribution Servers.

The Distribution Client is used by end users to install software at their convenience.  Command line parameters to this application allows administrators to push jobs onto users computer systems.

SDS provides the following features to reduce the cost of installing and upgrading PC software:

Analyze the changes to the system made by software setup programs.

Create a "Distribution Job" in minutes without building any scripts or knowledge of PC system files.

Set software defaults to ensure software is installed following pre-defined standards.

Manage multiple Distribution Servers making distribution jobs available to multiple sites.

Allow users to "Pull" a Distribution Job at their convenience from a Distribution Job Menu.

Force or "Push" a Distribution Job through network Log-In scripts or 3rd party network management utilities.

Define multiple conditions to be met before a Distribution Job is installed.

Target specific operating systems, i.e. Windows 3.1,  95, or  NT Workstation.

16 and 32 bit version available.

SDS can analyze and implement the following changes:

Create/Delete Directory Structures

Copy/ Delete Files

Make Changes to INI files

Make Changes to Text Files

Make Changes to the System Registry (including Windows 95 and NT)

Create Program Manager Groups

Change system variable such as system path.

Run external applications


System Requirments
System Requirements

In order to run Pentagon's Software Distribution System, you will require:

  A computer with a 386 processor or higher

  A hard drive designated as drive C:

  3 Mbytes of disk space for the Distribution Client

  15 Mbytes of disk space for the Distribution Manager

The Software Distribution System is supported on:

  Windows 3.1 or higher

  Windows 95

  Windows NT Workstation 3.51 or higher


Support / Contacts

Pentagon Systems has decided to use the Internet as its primary distribution channel.  All technical and sales issues can be directed  through this one point of contact.

All support calls will be responded to by email, fax, or by phone.

Please direct all questions to one of the following email address:

Support<pentagon@age.net>

Sales<pentagon@age.net>

Direct mail can be sent to :

Pentagon Systems

212 Pentagon Blvd.

Sault Ste. Marie, ON

Canada

P6B 5J3

Or you can visit our Web site at:

www.age.net/~pentagon


SDS Modules

The Software Distribution System consists of two modules, the Software Distribution Manager andSoftware Distribution Client.  The Distribution Manager is used by system  administrators to create and manage Distribution Servers and Distribution Jobs.

The Distribution Client is used by end users to install software at their convenience.  This allows employees to upgrade to new versions of software when they feel comfortable without impacting possible work deadlines.

Application Files

SDCLIENT.EXE	- 	Distribution Client for Windows 3.1 / 3.11 (16 bit)

SDMANAGR.EXE	- 	Distribution Manager for Windows 3.1 / 3.11 (16 bit)

SDC32.EXE	- 	Distribution Client for Windows 95 / NT Workstation (32 bit)

SDM32.EXE	- 	Distribution Manager for Windows 95 / NT Workstation (32 bit)

To check the version you are using:

1.	Select About from the Help menu.

Note:

It is recommended that the 32 bit versions of the Distribution Client and Manager are used on Windows NT and Windows 95.  They will analyze and install both 16 bit and 32 bit software applications.


License Agreement

NOTICE--PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE USING THIS PROGRAM

By installing or using any component of Pentagon Systems Software Distribution System (SDS), you (which if you are a business includes your business entity and all of its employees and contractors) accept the terms and conditions of this License Agreement between you and Pentagon Systems. ("Licensor") and the Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liability (collectively the "Agreement").  Installation or use of SDS by you constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

LIMITED LICENSE AGREEMENT

Limited License. Licensor grants to you a limited, non-exclusive license to (i) install and operate this computer program, commonly known as Software Distribution System, (the"Program") on a single computer (one central processing unit) and (ii) utilize the product to distribute other software applications to the said single computer. Licensor retains all rights to the Program not expressly granted to you in this Agreement.

Ownership of Program and Copies. This license is not a sale of the original Program or any copies thereof. Licensor retains the ownership of the Program and any copies of the Program, regardless of the form in which it or they may exist. The Program may not be modified or transferred to another person without the express written permission of the Licensor.

User Restrictions. You may not translate, modify, adapt, disassemble, decompile or reverse engineer the Program or create derivative works based on the Program. You may not rent, lease, sublicense, sell, assign, pledge, or transfer the Program.

Termination. This license is effective until terminated. This license will terminate automatically without notice from Licensor if you fail to comply with any provision of this Agreement or Licensor's Terms and Conditions of Sale. Upon termination, you must cease all use of the Program and return it, including any archival copies, to Licensor. The other provisions of this Agreement and Licensor's Terms and Conditions of Sale shall survive any such termination of the license granted hereunder.

Disclaimer of System Warranties. Customer expressly agrees that use of the Software Distibution System (the "system"), which includes the contents thereof, including the program, and the disk or other media is at customer's sole risk. Neither licensor nor any of its software or information providers, licensors, employees or agents warrant that the system will be error-free.

Limitation of Liability. Neither licensor nor anyone else involved in creating, producing or delivering the system or the information shall be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, exemplary or consequential damages arising out of use of the system or inability to use the system (including, but not limited to loss of profits, goodwill or savings, downtime, damage to or replacement of programs and data), arising from claims based in warranty, contract, tort (including negligence), strict liability, or otherwise, even if any such party has been advised of the possibility of such claim or damage. The provisions of this paragraph are for the benefit of licensor and its information and software providers, licensors, employees and agents and each shall have the right to assert and enforce such provision directly on its own behalf. The provisions of this paragraph will survive any termination of this agreement.  Customer's sole remedy for any breach of warranties which are implied by law and incapable of exclusion,

Restriction, or modification under the laws applicable to this agreement shall be limited to providing a replacement of the media on which this program was delivered by licensor.

.


Pentagon Systems

Software Distribution System

The application is simple, the pay-back is enormous.

Introduction

SDS Modules

System Requirments

Support / Contacts

License Agreement

Software Distribution Manager

Overview

How Do I ...

Create the First Distribution Job

Analyze Software Setup Programs

Clear all Inspection Data

Inspect the Computer System

Create and Manage Distribution Servers

Create a Distribution Key

Copy a Distribution Job to a Second Server

Print a Distribution Job or Software Analyses

Create & Manage Distribution Jobs

Software Distribution Client


Pentagon
Pentagon Systems

Software Distribution System

The application is simple, the pay-back is enormous.

Introduction

SDS Modules

System Requirments

Support / Contact

License Agreement

Software Distribution Manager

Software Distribution Client

Overview

How Do I...

Configure the Distribution Client

Install or Upgrade Software

View Installed Software

Delete Installed Software

Push a Distribution Job

Remotely Configure the Distribution Client


Distribution Manager - Overview

The Distribution Manager is the primary tool used by network administrators to create and manage Software Distribution Jobs andDistribution Servers.

There are six main functions routinely performed by administrators:

1.	Analyze the changes made by setup programs (Software Analyses)

2.	Create and manage Distribution Servers (Distribution Servers)

3.	Create and manage Distribution Jobs (Distribution Jobs)

4.	Create Distribution Keys (Distribution Keys)

5.	Copy Distribution Jobs to multiple Distribution Servers (Copy Distribution Job)

6.	Print the results of the Software Analyses or a Distribution Job (Printing)

Each function is an independent process.  Please click on the appropriate function for further information.

Note:

The Distribution Manager itself does not install any software. All Software Distribution Jobs must be installed or deleted using the Distribution Client.

It is not advisable to distribute the Distribution Manger to end users.


Software Analyses

Software setup or installation programs can make numerous changes to your computer without your knowledge.  These programs not only copy files to your hard drive, they also make less noticeable changes such as deleting files, changing INI files, and adding or deleting entries to the Windows System Registry.

Recognizing these changes with the Distribution Manger is a simple five step process.  All functions for this process can be located under the System Inspection menu.

To Analyze a Software Installation:

1.	Initialize the Inspection System

2.	Perform the Pre Installation Inspection

3.	Install the Software

4.	Perform the Post Installation Inspection

5.	Analyze the Software Installation

Click on the appropriate step for detailed information.


Inspection System Initialization
Inspection System - Initialization

The Inspection System consists of three processes:

1.	The Pre Software Installation Inspection

2.	The Post Software Installation Inspection

3.	The Software Installation Analyze

The data for each process can be cleared individually from the corresponding window or all data can be cleared using one menu option.

To clear all Inspection Data:

1.	Choose Initialize Inspection System from  the Inspection Menu

2.	Click Yes to confirm


System Inspection

The computer system must be inspected before and after the installation of your software.  This inspection, or snapshot, records all aspects of your computer including installed files, INI files, and Registry entries.

The Post Installation Inspection data is later compared to the Pre Installation Inspection data to report all the changes to your system.

To complete a  Pre or Post Installation Inspection:

1.	Select Pre or Post Installation Inspection from the Inspection Menu

The appropriate Inspection screen appears.

2.	Select the Drive Inspected.

This is the target installation drive.

3.	Click the Inspect Button

The Inspection Button is grayed if previous inspection data exists on the system.  Delete this data by clicking  on the Clear Button.

The Inspections Summary will reflect the number directories, files, and the total disk space occupied on the Drive Inspected.  Details of the Inspections will be displayed at the bottom of the Distribution Manager screen.

4.	Click the Close Button.


Install Your Software

Install your software using the applications setup or installation program.  Any pre-defined settings or standards you wish to set within the software can be done now.  These standards will be implemented when the software is distributed using the Distribution Client.

All changes to your system will be reported during the Software Installation Analyses.  Ensure that you do not create any unnecessary files or directories, or make irrelevant changes to system files.  You should not perform any unnecessary operations on your PC between the Pre and Post Installation Inspection.


Software Installation Analyses

The Software Installation Analyses Screen reports on the differences found between the Pre and Post Inspections.  This represents all the changes made by the softwares installation program as well as all the standards you established with the software.

To Analyze the Software Installation:

1.	Select Installation Analyses from the Inspection Menu

The Software Installation Analyses screen appears.

2.	Click the Analyze Button

The Analyze Button is grayed if previous analyses data exists on the system.  Delete this data by clicking  on the Clear Button.

The progress will be displayed at the bottom of the Distribution Manager screen.

The following detail groups are available from the pull down menu.

Each detail line in the window can be expanded by double clicking on the selected line.

When viewing INI Files Modified, a list of changed INI files will appear. To view the changes made to an INI file, double click on a specific INI file name in the windows.


Distribution Servers

A Distribution Server is a network location where all Distribution Jobs and necessary files are stored.  Administrators connect to a Distribution Server to save all new and changed Distribution Jobs.

End Users will connect to a Distribution Server to view the applications available on that server and initiate a software installation.

Network Access Rights:

Administrators must have full rights to the network share or network drive designated as a Distribution Server.  End users should have read only permissions to the network drive.

To Access the Distribution Server Window:

1.	Select Distribution Servers from the Job Distribution menu

The Distribution Server window appears.

To Add a Distribution Server:

1.	Enter the Network Path.

This is a Network File Share or the Network Server, Volume and Directory name of a Novel network server.

2.	Click  Add on the Distribution Server Windows

The Distribution Server is added to the visible list.

Adding a Distribution Server simply creates the necessary directory structure on the network resource.  Initial INI files are created on the server and the Distribution Server name is added to the local server list.

To  Delete a Distribution Server:

1.	Select a Distribution Server from the Server List.

2.	Click on the Delete button

Deleting a Distribution Server simply removes the entry from the local list.  All Distribution Jobs and directory structures remain on the network server.  End users can continue to access this server to install software.

To complete the removal of a Distribution Server, the directory and files on the network server must be manually deleted.


Distribution Keys

Distribution Jobs can be configured so that a special Distribution Key is required to unlock the Software Distribution Job.  This Key is created by the System Administrator using the Distribution Key Window and is sent electronically to the end user.

Without this key, end users will be denied access to the Distribution Job and will be unable to install the particular software application.

This functionality ensures that System Administrators have control over the installation of particular software packages where restrictions are necessary.

To Create a Distribution Key:

1.	Choose Create Distribution Key from the Job Distribution Menu.

The Distribution Key screen appears.

2.	Select a Distribution Server from the drop down list

3.	Select a Distribution Job from the drop down list

4.	Click the Key Expires Option (Optional)

Select this option if you want the Distribution Key to expire in a set number of days.

It is recommended that all Distribution Keys are set to expire within a reasonable amount of time.  This ensures that a particular key cannot be used more than once.

5.	Set the number of Days

The Distribution Key will expire if the option has been set in step 4.

6.	Click on Save

The key is saved in the C:\PENTAGON\SDS directory.  The file name is the assigned Job Code with the .KEY extension.

This Key should be sent electronically to the end user. Once received, the end user should save the Key in C:\PENTAGON\SDS.  By default, the Distribution Client will look in this directory when a Distribution Key is required.

The Distribution Key contains the following information:

Distribution Job Code

Distribution Job Name

Key Creation Date

Key Expire Option

Number of Days to Expire


Copy Distribution Job

Multiple Distribution Servers may be required to service different geographic locations.  In this situation, it is desirable to have one Server designated as the Primary Distribution Server.  To maintain consistency between Servers, and ensure that Distribution Jobs are identical across the organization, the System Administrator can copy a Distribution Job from the Primary Server to a second or third server.

To Copy a Distribution Job to a second Distribution Server:

1.	Choose Copy Distribution Job from the Job Distribution Menu.

The Copy Distribution Job window will appear.

2.	Select the Primary Distribution Server from the drop down menu

3.	Select the Job To Duplicate from the drop down menu.

This list is the available software on the Primary Server.

4.	Select the Target Distribution Server

5.	Click the Copy Button.

If a server is not found in the appropriate list, add the Distribution Server to the system.


Printing

Two reports are available:

1.	Software Installation Analyses

2.	The current Distribution Job in the Distribution Job Window

To Print a Report:

1.	Choose Print from the File Menu.

The Print Dialogue Box appears.

2.	Click on the Report you wish to print.

The Open Distribution Job report is only available if the Distribution Job Window is open.


Distribution Jobs

Distribution Jobs are scripts that contain all the necessary information for the Distribution Client to install a software application.  All Distribution Jobs must be stored on a Distribution Server and controlled with the Software Distribution Manager.

A Distribution Job can be divided into 9 information groups.  Each group is represented by a separate tab on the Distribution Job screen.

To access the Distribution Job Window:

1.	Select Distribution Jobs from the Job Distribution Menu

The Distribution Job window appears.

See also:

Distribution Job Window - Overview

Distribution Job Pages - Overview


Distribution Job Window - Overview

The Distribution Job window consists of a number of buttons, pages, and a drop down list box that control various aspects of a Distribution Job.

To access the Distribution Job Window:

1.	Select Distribution Jobs from the Job Distribution Menu

The Distribution Job window appears.

The buttons and drop down list control the management of the Distribution Job while the pages allow the administrator to control individual aspects of the Distribution Job itself.

Buttons and Drop Down List

The Distribution Server drop down list is the first item that must be selected.  It sets the Distribution Server for all activities such as opening and deleting Distribution Jobs.  All Distribution Job lists will be retrieved from the defined Distribution Server.

Click New to clear the Job Window and create a New Distribution Job.  You will be prompted to save the existing Job if changes are made.

Click Open to open a Distribution Job.  Only Jobs available on the selected Distribution Server will be available.

Save will save the current Distribution Job to the Distribution Server selected in the drop down list.

Click Delete to remove a Distribution Job from the selected Distribution Server.

Click Close to close the Distribution Job window.

Click Load to automatically take the Software Analyses andcreate a Distribution Job.  You can now review the details of the analyses and make any changes you wish before saving the Job.

See also:

Distribution Job Pages - Overview


Distribution Job Pages - Overview

The various pages on the Distribution Job Window allow  the Administrator to control all aspects of a Distribution Job.  Click on the appropriate page for detailed information.

General Information

This is general information about the Distribution Job such as the Job Name, Job Code, Creation Date, and general job options..

Conditions

This page allows the Administrator to define certain condition that must be met before the software in installed by the user.  It also provides reset options for the computer after the software is installed.

Directories

All directories or folders that are created or deleted are listed on this page.

Files

This page lists all the files that will be installed or deleted on the workstation.  Options that handle read only files and existing files are available on this page.

INI Files

All changes to INI files are entered on this page.

Text Files

All Changes to various text files are entered on this page.

Registry

This page includes all changes to the Windows Registry.

Groups

Program Manager groups and Start Menu folders are added through this page.

Misc.

The Miscellaneous page allows the Administrator to Change environmental variables, execute other applications, and delete existing software applications from the computer.


General Information

The first page to appear is the General Information Page.  Overall Job information is entered here.

Job Name:	This is the name given to the Distribution Job.  This is usually the name of the software that will be installed for example ABC Spreadsheet.  This field is required.

Job Code:	This field is generated when the Distribution Job is saved for the first time.  The Distribution Manager and Distribution Client use the Job Code internally.  Each Job Code generated is a unique code and directory name on the selected Distribution Server..

The Job Code is also the name of all Distribution Keys generated for this Distribution Job.

Creation

Date: 	This is the date the Distribution Job is first saved.

Information: 	Special notes or assumptions about the Job can be entered here.  This field is for the Administrators use only and is not used in the Distribution System.

Hold Job:	Check this option if you want to temporarily hold the Distribution Job.  End users will not be able to install this software until the option is cleared.

Job Can

Be Pulled:	This option must be checked to allow end users to install the selected software using the Distribution Client.

Job Can

Be Pushed:	This option must be checked to allow Administrators to force software onto a computer.  Please see Pushing a Distribution Job.


Job Conditions

The Conditions Page specifies all the conditions that must be met before a Distribution Job is installed on a computer.  You also have the option of re-setting the workstation after the Distribution Job is complete.

  Distribution Key Required:

Check this box if the user requires a special Distribution Key to install this software.  This option ensures that end users cannot install software at will and licensing agreements are not violated.

Please see Distribution Keys for further information.

  Existing File

Check this box if a specific file must exist on the workstation.  This is useful if the Distribution Job may be installed only if a previous version exists on the workstation or if supporting software has been installed.

If you Check this option, you must enter in the name (including the full path) of the file that must exist on the workstation.

  Installed Distribution Jobs

All the Distribution Jobs listed must have been installed on the workstation if this option is checked.

To Add/Delete a Distribution Job to the Condition List:

1.	Click the Add/Delete button.

The Required Distribution Jobs dialogue box appears.

2.	Move a Distribution Job between the Available Jobs list and the Required Job List.

3.	Click OK.

  Satisfy All Condition

Each of the above conditions determine if the user can install the Distribution Job.  If this box is not checked, only one of the set  conditions have to be true for the Distribution Job to continue.

If this box is checked, all of the set conditions have to be met before the Distribution Job is allowed to continue.  If the workstation does not meet the above requirements, the user is informed of this when they try to install the software using the Distribution Client.

  Windows 31, Windows 95, Windows NT

These conditions target specific operating system by checking or clearing the check box.  The software will not be installed on Windows platforms that are not checked.

Use this option to ensure 32 bit software is not installed on Windows 3.1.

  Reset Workstation

After the software installation is complete, the Administrator can cause the workstation to restart Windows or the workstation.


Directories

There are three directory operations possible:

1.	Create a directory/folder.

2.	Delete a directory/folder only if it is empty.

3.	Delete a directory/folder with its contents.

To Add a Directory/Folder to the list:

1.	Click the Add button

The Directory/Folder dialogue box appears.

2.	Enter the full path of the Directory/Folder.

3.	Click OK.

The Directory is added to the Directory/Folder list.

4.	Check the desired operation.

By default, the Create operation is checked.

To View or Change the Directory Operation:

1.	Select the directory in the Directory/Folder List.

The current operation on the directory will be checked.

2.	Click the new directory operation.

The new operation will now be associated with the selected directory name.

To Remove a Directory from the list:

1.	Select the directory from the list.

2.	Click the Delete button.

3.	Confirm the removal of the entry.


Files

To Add a File Operation to the Job:

1.	Click Add next to the File List.

The Copy/Delete File dialogue box appears.

2.	Enter the path and name of the file.

The selected file operation will be performed on this file.  You must enter the complete path of the file including the drive.

3.	Choose Copy File or Delete File.

Choose Copy File to install a file to the workstation or Delete File to delete a file from the workstation.

The file must exist on the administrators workstation to select Copy File.  If the file does not currently exist, it cannot be added to the Distribution Job.

4.	Click OK

The file is added to the File List.  A + next to the file name indicates that this file will be installed on the workstation.  A  indicates the file will be deleted from the workstation.

The Files Copied, Bytes Copied, and Files Deleted change to reflect the files installed and deleted.

To Remove a File Operation to the Job:

1.	Select the File in the File List.

2.	Click the Delete button.

3.	Confirm the removal of the file operation.

The selected file is deleted from the list and the counter below are adjusted.

File Options

  Overwrite Existing Files

The Distribution Job will overwrite existing files when this option is checked.

  	Read Only Files

If this option is checked, read only files will be overwritten.

Older Files Only

This option is checked so that only older versions of the file will be overwritten.  If a file has a new date stamp than the file being copied, it is not overwritten.

If this option is not checked, you may overwrite a more recent version of a file with an older one.

Delete Read Only Files

With this option checked, read only files will be deleted.


Ini Files

There are two steps necessary to modify an INI file:

1.	Add the Name of the file to the INI File List.

2.	Specify the INI changes.

To Add a File to the INI File List:

1.	Click Add next to the INI File List.

The Select File Dialogue box appears.

2.	Enter the File Name.

The file name must have the entire path including the drive letter.  You can search the system for the file if necessary.

3.	Click the Open button.

The file is added to the INI File list.

To Specify the INI Change:

1.	Select the file in the INI File list.

2.	Click the Add button below the File Changes list.

The INI Operation screen appears.

3.	Select the INI Operation.

There are three operation that can be performed on the INI file:  Add or Replace an Entry, Delete an Entry, and Delete a Section.

4.	Enter the Section, Entry, and Value information.

This information is necessary to complete the operation.  The Section in an INI file is the heading contained in the square brackets.  The Entry is the key and the Value is the data associated with the Entry.

5.	Click OK.

The information is added to the File Changes list.  A + or a  indicates whether the entry is begin added or removed.

To Remove a File or a Specific  INI Change:

1.	Select the file name or INI change.

2.	Click the appropriate Delete button.

3.	Confirm the removal of the file or change..

The specified INI change will be deleted or if you are deleting a file, all related INI changes will be removed.

Note:	To view the INI changes made to a specific file, select the file in the INI File list.  The changes will be displayed automatically.


Text Files

There are two steps necessary to modify a text file:

1.	Add the Name of the file to the Text File List.

2.	Specify the change.

To Add a File to the Text File List:

1.	Click Add next to the Text File List.

The Select File Dialogue box appears.

2.	Enter the File Name.

The file name must have the entire path including the drive letter.  You can search the system for the file if necessary.

3.	Click the Open button.

The file is added to the Text File list.

To Specify the Text Change:

1.	Select the file in the Text File list.

2.	Click the Add button below the File Changes list.

The Operation screen appears.

3.	Select the Text Operation.

There are two choices:  Add a Line to the file, or Delete a Line from the file.

4.	Enter in the Change Details

Line Entry:	This  Line will be added to or Deleted from the file. The text is not case sensitive and all blanks are ignored when you are Deleting a Line.

Placement Options:  If you are Adding a Line, you can specify where the line is entered in the file.  At Top of File is the Default.  You can also specify the line be added before or after a specific text line.  This key line is entered at the bottom.  If this line does not exist in the text file, the inserted line will be placed at the top of the file.

5.	Click OK.

The information is added to the File Changes list.  A + or a  indicates whether the entry is begin added or removed.

To Remove a File or a Specific  Text Change:

1.	Select the file name or Text change.

2.	Click the appropriate Delete button.

3.	Confirm the removal of the file or change..

The specified Text change will be deleted or if you are deleting a file, all related changes will be removed.

Note:	To view the text changes made to a specific file, select the file in the Text File list.  The changes will be displayed automatically.


Registry Page

Warning

The Registry Page allow you to add and delete entries in the Windows Registry.

Only experienced Administrators who understand the Windows Registry structure should use this page.

Administrators are not usually required to make changes to the Windows Registry.  Installation programs make all the necessary changes when they install software.

It may be necessary to review the Registry Changes after you Load a Distribution Job from a Software Analyses.  You may note some entries contain your user ID.  This can be the case with 95 and NT installations.  You may decide to remove these changes so they are not distributed to end users..

To Make a Registry Change:

1.	Select the Root Key.

The Distribution Manage for Windows 3.1 allows changes to HKey_Classes_Root only.  The Distribution Manger for 95/NT allow you to also change: HKey_Current_User, Hkey_Local_Machine, and HKey_Users.

2.	Enter the Sub Key Name.

3.	Enter the Value or Value Name.

If you are using the 16 bit version of the SDM, you can enter the Value data associated with the Sub Key.

The 32 bit version is designed for the 32 bit Windows Registry and allows you to add a Value Name.  The data is entered in the Value Data field if necessary.

4.	Chose the Registry Operation.

Click on Add Key to add the information to the Registry or Delete Key to remove a key from the Registry.

5.	Click the Add button.

The entry is added to the Registry Changes list.  A + or  indicates the key is added or deleted from the Registry.

To Remove a Registry Change:

1.	Double Click on the change.

The Key fields above are populated with the information found in the list.

2.	Click the Remove button.

3.	Choose Yes to confirm.

The Registry Change is removed from the list.


Groups

To Create Program Manger Groups/Icons:

1.	Enter the Group Name.

The icon will be added to this group.

2.	Enter the Icon Description.

This is the text at the bottom of the icon.

3.	Enter the Command.

This is the EXE, COM, or BAT file to execute.  This must contain the full path of the file must be in the Working Directory or in you System Path.

4.	Enter the Working Directory.

5.	Click the Add Button.

The information is added to the Program Manager Icon list.

The Browse Button allows you to search for the file and will fill in the fields with the appropriate information.

To Remove an Entry:

1.	Click on the entry in the Program Manager Icon list.

The information is entered into the fields.

2.	Click the Remove Button.

Confirm the removal of the icon.

Allow Users to Select Program Group

Check this box if the end user is allowed to create the icons in any group.  If this is not checked, the icons will be created in the Group Name specified.


Misc. Page

Three areas are available in the Misc. Page:

1.	Environment Changes.

2.	Execute a third party program.

3.	Delete existing Distribution Jobs.

To make an Environment Change:

1.	Select the Change Type:

Available Operations :  Modify the Path, Run Command (WIN.INI), and the Load Command (WIN.INI)

2.	Enter the Parameter.

This is the specific change.

3.	Click the Add button.

The change is added to the list.

To Execute a File:

1.	Check the Execute File box.

2.	Enter the file to execute.

This is the program to run after the Distribution Job is complete.  The full path should be entered or the Browse button can be used to find the required file.

Delete a Distribution Job:

1.	Click the Add/Delete button.

The Distribution Jobs to Delete Screen appears.

2.	Move a Distribution Job between the Available Jobs list and the Jobs to Delete List.

3.	Click OK.

The Jobs listed here will be automatically remove if they have been installed on the Workstation.  Existing Distribution Jobs are removed before the software is installed.


The First Distribution Job

Follow these easy steps to create the first Distribution Job.

1.	Define a Distribution Server.

All Distribution Job specifications and necessary files are stored on a Distribution Server.  All Distribution Jobs must be stored on a Server defined in the Distribution Manager and cannot be saved on your local hard drive.

2.	Complete the Pre Installation Inspection.

The Pre Installation Inspection will record all aspects of your system before you install your software.  This snap shot will be used to analyze the changes made to your system by the software's installation program.

3.	Install Your Software.

4.	Complete the Post Installation Inspection.

The Post Installation Inspection will record all aspects of your system after you have installed your software.  This snap shot will be compared to the Pre Installation Inspection.  All changes made to your system by the software's installation program or your actions will be reported.

5.	Complete the Installation Analyses.

You now have reached the point where you can report on the changes made by your software's installation program.  The Software Installation Analyses screen will compare the Pre and Post System Inspection and detail all the changes.

6.	Select a Distribution Server

On the Distribution Job Screen, select the Target Distribution Server.

7.	Create a Distribution Job

On the Distribution Job Screen, click the Load button to create a Distribution Job using the Software Installation Analyses completed in step 5.

8.	Enter the Job Name.

9.	Save the Distribution Job.


Pentagon Systems

Software Distribution Client

The Simple way to install software.

Overview

How Do I...

Configure the Distribution Client

Install or Upgrade Software

View Installed Software

Delete Installed Software

Push a Distribution Job

Remotely Configure the Distribution Client


Distribution Client Overview

The Software Distribution Client (SDC) is used to install and delete Distribution Jobs onto a workstation.  The main screen will list all the software that is available on a defined Distribution Server.  From this point, the user can install any software that he has access to.

There are four main functions performed by the SDC:

1 	Install or Upgrade Software

2.	View Installed Software

3.	Delete Installed Software

4.	Push a Distribution Job


Configure the Distribution Client

The Software Distribution Client providesa list of all software available on a defined Distribution Server. You must configure the Software Distribution Client to be able to access this list.

To configure the Distribution Client:

1.	Click Configuration  from the Options menu.

The Distribution Server Configuration dialogue box appears.

2.	Enter the Distribution Server.

This is the Network Share of Network Server and Drive.  Please contact your administrator for this information.

3.	Click OK.

The Distribution Client will connect to the specified server and display the available software. The current Distribution Server is displayed at the bottom of the screen.

If the Distribution Server is not found:

1.	The Distribution Server is down. The Distribution Server status line at the bottom of the screen will indicate the server is unavailable.

2.	The network share or drive is not available.

3.	You do not have Read access to the Distribution Server.

4.	The Distribution Server has not been properly configured by the Administrator.

5.	There is no software available for installation.


Install/Upgrade Software

Pentagon System's Software Distribution Client allowsyou to install or upgrade software at your convenience.

To install software:

1.	Select the application you want to install listed under Available Software.

2.	Click OK.

A dialog box will appear, asking you to confirm the installation.

3.	Click Yes to continue with the installation.

A status window appears showing the progress of the installation.

4.	Click No if you do not want to continue with the installation.


View Installed Software

The Software Distribution Client maintainsa list of software that was installed on your system using this distribution package. You can easily view this list at any time.

To view installed software:

1.	Click Options, Installed Software.

All the installed software is displayed in the Distribution Jobs Installed windows.

2.	Click OK.

This returns you  to the Software Distribution Client dialog box.


Delete Installed Software

The Softwaer Distribution Client allows you to cleanly remove software from your system at any time.

To delete installed software:

1.	Click Options, Installed Software.

All the installed software is displayed in the Distribution Jobs Installed windows.

2.	Select the software to be Deleted.

3.	Click Delete.

A dialog box will appear, asking you to confirm the deletion.

4.	Click Yes to continue with the deletion.

The progress of the  software deletion will be displayed in the Progress dialogue box.


Push a Distribution Job

The Distribution Client operates can operate in Pull Mode or Push Mode.  The mode is automatically determined when the program is launched.

1.	Pull Mode

When the Distribution Client is launched without any parameters, it functions in Pull Mode where the user must select a Distribution Job from the list and initiate the software installation.

2.	Push Mode

If the appropriate parameters are added to the command line, the Distribution Client will operate in Push Mode.  This allows Administrators to install software on workstation automatically by activating the Distribution Client through network Log-In scripts or network management tools.

Parameter necessary to Push a Distribution Job:

/Push	This parameter is required to set the distribution mode.

/Netpath=	This defines the Distribution Server that will be connected to.  The Distribution Server is an alias for a Network Share or Network Server, volume and drive.

/Job=	This is the Job Code of the software to be installed.

Examples

SDC32.EXE /Push /Netpath=\\Server1\Pentagon /Job=2514

This will force job 2514 from the Distribution Server \\Server1\Pentagon onto the workstation.

SDCIENT.EXE /Push /NetPath= [server1:driveC\pentagon] /Job:2222

This forces job 2222 from the Distribution Server [server1;driveC\pentagon] onto the workstation.


Remotely Configure the Distribution Client

Administrators can automatically configure the Distribution Client.  When launched, the application will look for file C:\PENTAGON\SDS\SDSINIT.INI.  If this file is located, it will read the file and configure the Distribution Client automatically.

To Remotely Configure the Distribution Client:

1.	Create SDSINIT.INI.

The contents of the file must be:

[SDS INIT]

NETWORK_PATH=

Set the Network Path to the desired Distribution Server.  The Distribution Server is the Network Share in Microsoft networks or the Network Drive in Novel networks.

2.	Save SDSINIT.INI.

Copy this file the C:\PENTAGON\SDS on the workstation.


The Software Distribution Client lists the software that is available on a Distriubiton Server.  It allows the user to install or delete software at their convenience.


The Available Software List displays all the applications that can be automatically installed from a Distribution Server.


A Distribution Server is a network file share or network drive designated as a Distribution Job repository.  It is created and managed using the Software Distribution Manager.  All Distribution Job specifications and files are located on a Distribution Server.