KACE Product Support

Not only can you clean up registry entries and files after the snapshot (before the build), but when you do you are made to enter a comment on the item being removed. The item is remembered next time you use the tool and when you see an item automatically excluded you can see why it was excluded!

I thought I found the answer to my problem when I found 'regshot', but it just added to my confusion.

I really think repackager would, and should, decide what it needs and doesn't need.

I'm not sure what you mean. Are you saying that AppDeploy Repackager should automatically know what registry entries do and do not belong in your package? It does to a degree, but every repackager requires some skilled clean-up. By offering the descriptive exclusion list you should be able to build on your knowledge over time as you use it. The problem is that what does and does not belong is not so black and white-- what you leave in and take out depends upon the application in question, as well as the makeup of your baseline system.

If you are looking for feedback on a particular entry, provide the details in the Package Development forum and I'm sure you'll get some suggestions!

I really don't know why it is not 'black and white'. If something is changed or added in the registry, why can't repackager include it in the build? Also, when files are added to the system, why can't they be added to the build? You must understand, I am not a programmer, so I am sure there is some reason.

By default, any such change are included—the problem is other things the system is doing (especially if there is a reboot or another program executed during the snapshot). Indexing, downloading of updates and just normal Windows “noise” makes some knowledge of what needs to be removed a valuable skill.

Actually, I have a totally clean system. The only thing that is installed is the drivers for the board, AppDeploy and GoBack. I use repackager. I install the application. When I have created the MSI, I move it to another computer. I then do a GoBack to the original installation and start completely anew. There are not even any TSRs.

Are you experiencing a problem?

Yes. I've tried without editing the snapshot, and, again, editing the snapshot. Sometimes it hangs without creating the MSI, and other times, the MSI won't install. I have a new Pentium on the way. Maybe that will change things. I don't know why, though, but I'll let you know.

When you do, please start a new thread here on the forum and attach the XML file for the project so we can see what you are working with.