Custom Recovery Partition

[Insub']

Hi

Now, i work with renting out computers to clients, when we get back a computer from said client, we format them and re-install the OS/etc.

I would like to make a custom recovery partition, so i can place an image of the system after a clean install. The thing is, i would like to start the recovery process by using a special key combination on boot up, like what Dell uses.

Any help on how to do this, or even a tutorial will be appreciated.

I currently use symantec ghost 11.5

 

[numnutz]

i'm in the process of working with acronis true image oem. they seem to have a software solution. They sent me a working demo but I have questions and need support but none available on the weekends. You have to purchase a bulk block of licenses minimum of 50 or you can purchase the full retail package one license at a time....

 

[Tweak]

Softthinks PC Angel is the best solution for this IF you are willing to pay what they ask for it...many are not.

 

[Insub']

Tweak- I checked out the web page for the software you suggested and they seem to have the solution for my situation, however they don't seem to be selling what they are advertising-clicking on nearly any link on their site produces the following page: "available soon" page.

Not sure what the deal is with their site.
http://www.softthinks.com/

Numnutz- I'm a bit more leaning towards trying the one you suggested. However, they don't seem to be a trial download of the software. Exactly how did you request yours ?

Any more suggestions are welcomed!

 

[NickCat11]

Tweak- I checked out the web page for the software you suggested and they seem to have the solution for my situation, however they don't seem to be selling what they are advertising-clicking on nearly any link on their site produces the following page: "available soon" page.

You'll need to call them for a quote as they probably have many different price levels. Be prepared to spend some big money.

 

[chrisaroz]

When I contacted Softthink here's the response I got several months ago (after nagging, they're horrible about staying in touch)

ME: Do you work with techs, or only OEM?
Softthink: Just OEMs. We have a minimum requirement of 500 units per month. Sorry.

Acronis seems to be the best way to do this right now. $35 at Amazon.

 

[numnutz]

my contact is Roger.Hudritsch@acronis.com
mention I refered you maybe he will give us both a discount one could only hope. I tried to contact softthinks also once I told them how few systems I build a year they stopped replying to my requests for information, nice of them...
Eric

 

[numnutz]

wow 500 a month guess thats why when I said I would be willing to purchase 50 licenses at a time they never replied to me haha, guess they never heard about providing support to the small business man....

 

[DanB]

Acronis

I think acronis is a good bet. My wife does these all the time using ghost. They have over 500 computers they maintain this way (3 person shop). Here is a good discussion

http://msfn.modrica.com/board/lofiversion/index.php/t100053.html

 

[Insub']

500 units a month ? I don't even have a reply for that haha

The most I can handle would be 30, and not a month, cause as rentals, unless a system dies and needs to be completely replaced, there is no need to change them.

numnutz-- maybe I'll drop him an email. Thanks for the info.

DanB-- Thanks for the link. I'll give it a read and let you know the out come.

 

[Tweak]

Apparently Softthinks has changed as they used to not require such a large number, my apologies. (Still my fav solution though)