SmartImager

Installation and Setup

• smartImager is installed on a Windows Server (2012 R2 or newer recommended), requiring at least 2 CPUs and 2-4 GB of RAM.
• The installation includes a Prerequisites Wizard that checks and installs necessary components such as the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK), .NET Framework, and SQL Server.
• During setup, smartImager automatically configures Windows Deployment Services (WDS) and Internet Information Services (IIS) application pools.
• An optional UltraVNC client controller can be installed for remote management.
• Licensing is applied after the installation process is complete.

Image Deployment

• Images can be deployed either over the network using PXE boot or via bootable USB media created with the built-in WinPE creator.
• Network deployment requires proper DHCP scope configuration to support PXE boot.
• USB deployment involves creating a bootable USB key that loads WinPE and initiates the imaging process.
• Configuration changes must be published from the smartImager console before deployment.
• The system adapts dynamically depending on whether deployment is via network or removable media.

Imaging Process and Features

• smartImager uses a dynamic scripting engine with conditional logic to automate driver selection and software installation, eliminating the need for manual scripting or complex task sequences.
• It supports hardware-independent imaging by automatically selecting the appropriate drivers for different hardware models during deployment.
• Software applications are managed separately from the OS image, allowing quick updates without rebuilding the entire image.
• The process monitors software installations, manages reboots, retries failed installs, and ensures a smooth completion.
• Security features include encryption of software repositories on media and verification checks before imaging begins.

• Flexible Automation: smartImager allows you to define installation criteria and sequencing for software deployment. The system automatically generates the deployment logic, accommodating complex environments without manual scripting.

• Custom Image Creation: You can create and capture your own Windows images, including patches, drivers, and applications tailored specifically to your organization’s needs using a wizard-based Image Capture tool.

• Script Support: The software supports adding custom scripts (such as batch files, PowerShell, or VBScript) to control application installation and deployment conditions based on hardware or operating system architecture.

• Hardware-Independent Imaging: smartImager automatically selects the appropriate drivers for different hardware models during deployment, eliminating the need for manual driver management or purchasing multiple driver packs.

• Deployment Flexibility: It supports multiple deployment methods including network-based (PXE boot), USB media, and cloud-based options, allowing you to fit the solution into your existing workflows.

• User-Friendly Interface: Designed to be intuitive and easy to use, smartImager reduces the learning curve and enables faster productivity, even in complex deployment scenarios.

• There is no publicly available detailed information about setup fees, ongoing maintenance costs, or support charges for smartImager.

• The software is designed to simplify installation and maintenance through automated prerequisite checks and configuration, which may reduce initial setup complexity and associated costs.

• Support is generally provided via email or vendor contact channels, but specific support plans, service level agreements (SLAs), or fees are not openly disclosed.

• Pricing, including any additional costs for setup, maintenance, or premium support, is typically provided through direct vendor consultations or authorized resellers and may vary depending on customer requirements and agreements.

• smartImager offers multiple training formats including detailed documentation, live online sessions, webinars, and in-person training to help new users get started effectively.

• Upon first login, users are presented with a "Getting Started Guide" within the software that walks through initial setup steps such as driver capture, adding Windows images, and publishing configurations.

• The training emphasizes hands-on guidance through the console interface, covering key tasks like creating driver packs, adding applications, and deploying images.

• Support is available primarily via email and vendor contact channels, with a knowledge base offering additional help articles and FAQs.

• The software’s intuitive interface and automation features reduce the learning curve, making it easier for new users to become productive quickly.

• smartImager encrypts software repositories stored on removable media to protect sensitive application and deployment files.

• Before imaging, the system performs verification checks to ensure the integrity and authenticity of the deployment environment.

• Access control requires administrator credentials for forced imaging operations, preventing unauthorized reimaging of client machines.

• The software integrates with Windows security features and deployment services, leveraging existing network security configurations such as DHCP and WDS.

• Driver packs and application repositories are managed centrally on the server, reducing risk of unauthorized modification.

• smartImager releases updates periodically, though exact intervals are not publicly specified.

• Updates typically include improvements to deployment automation, driver management, and compatibility with new Windows versions.

• The update process is managed through the smartImager console, where administrators can publish changes and new images or applications to the deployment environment.

• When updates are applied, the system recompiles driver packs, WinPE boot files, and application packages automatically to ensure consistency.

• Administrators are notified within the console when publishing is required after changes or updates, ensuring deployments use the latest configurations.

• smartImager states that it is the sole owner of the information collected on its website, but this applies only to information voluntarily provided by users through direct contact such as email. They do not sell or rent this information and only share it as necessary to fulfill user requests.

• Clients have the right to request access to and copies of any client records that smartImager keeps, provided reasonable notice is given.

• The privacy policy emphasizes protecting user information both online and offline, including encryption of sensitive data during transmission and restricted access to personally identifiable information.

• While the policy covers data collected via the website and client interactions, it does not explicitly detail ownership or portability terms for data generated or stored within the smartImager software itself.

• Users can opt out of communications and request data deletion, indicating some control over their personal data.

• There is no publicly detailed information specifying terms or policies about scaling smartImager licenses or services up or down as organizational needs change.

• Pricing, licensing, and support agreements are typically handled directly with the vendor or resellers, which likely include provisions for adjusting the number of licenses or deployment scale.

• Given the nature of smartImager as a deployment and imaging solution, it is reasonable to infer that organizations can scale the number of managed devices or concurrent deployments by purchasing additional licenses or adjusting their support contracts, but exact terms would be subject to negotiation with the vendor.

• Both the client and smartImager have the right to terminate any Services Agreement at any time and for any reason, including terminating services already in progress.

• While specific renewal terms are not publicly detailed, it is common for such agreements to include automatic renewal clauses unless either party provides written notice of non-renewal within a specified period, often 30 to 60 days before the contract expires.

• Termination for cause usually requires written notice of a material breach, along with a cure period (commonly 30 days) for the breaching party to resolve the issue before termination can proceed.

• Contracts typically have an initial term and then renew automatically for successive periods unless terminated in writing by either party.

• There is no public information about setup fees or penalties for early termination, but standard industry practices may apply.

• Clients generally must notify smartImager in writing to cancel or opt out of renewal, and renewal pricing may be subject to change with prior notice.

• The software incorporates security features like encrypted repositories, administrator authentication, and integration with Windows security frameworks, which align with general IT security best practices.

• The privacy policy reflects adherence to data protection principles, including secure handling of personally identifiable information and giving users control over their data.

• For compliance requirements related to regulated industries, customers should verify directly with the vendor.