WDS refuses to install the right OS

[Ric_]

I have a server with a fresh install of WDS (mixed mode).

I have created two installation options on the server - 1 for 32-bit XP and one for x64 Server 2003.

The XP image works without fault - better than ever in fact!

The problem comes when I want to install a server. I boot via PXE to the Client Installation Wizard, enter my credentials and a computer name, the OS selection screen flashes up briefly (although only the XP option is there) and then proceeds to try and install XP.

I have tried reinstalling the image, removing and adding the SIF files agasin, restarting services, etc. to no avail.

Any ideas would be welcomed - it's just too much hard work to insert the disc!

[Psymon]

You are using the Server 2008 boot.wim?

When we were looking at multicasting Vista images, we read that you couldnt multicast with the Vista boot image, and had to install the server 2008 boot.wim.

The client would connect to the multicast on the vista boot, but not recieve any information. Could be similar with the server install?

Worth a shot.

[Gibbo]

How about disabling the XP image and seeing what message it comes up with? Although Psymon's answer sounds logical.

[Psymon]

Also you only need a 32bit Boot.wim, and you can looad a 64bit image from it. We only have the x86 boot image installed, and can install all images.

Our setup is as follows.

32bit Server 2008 Boot Image
32bit Vista Image
64bit Vista Image
64bit Server 2008 Image

Multicasting enabled when needed (21 PC's in an ICT Suite without slaying the server with 21 connections)

Works fine.

[Ric_]

This is LEGACY mode (i.e. good old RIS) so the boot.wim thingy is barking up the wrong tree.

[tosh74]

You have set the CHOICE OPTIONS in GP for affected user account?

[Ric_]

Update: Removing the XP option causes an error stating "Unable to display operating system (OS) choices"

@tosh74: The 'Choice Options' GPO setting is set to the following:

• Automatic Setup: Enabled
• Custom Setup: Enabled
• Restart Setup: Enabled
• Tools: Not Configured

This should allow me to choose an image if multiple ones are available.