Creating a bootable USB key

Appendix B: Creating a bootable USB key

Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation can be installed on the HP ProLiant MicroServer without a DVD via a USB key method. This method requires the use of command line utilities and should only be undertaken by experienced users.

Access to another computer besides the server is required.

NOTE:

This process is NOT recommended for the novice user. HP assumes no responsibility and is not liable for lost data if you use this option. The primary risk is in accidentally selecting a hard drive rather than the USB key during the installation process. Disk numbering starts with zero. If you have more than one hard drive installed, the USB stick will not be "1" as indicated in the example. Carefully examine the resulting output of the "list disk" command to select the right number for the USB drive.

At a computer running Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Windows Server 2008, run a command prompt as administrator and execute the following:

C:\>

diskpart

DISKPART>

list disk [Identify disk # of the USB key]

DISKPART>

sel disk 1 [assuming 1 was the # from above]

DISKPART>

clean [CAUTION—will wipe whichever disk is selected]

DISKPART>

cre part pri

DISKPART>

active

DISKPART>

assign

DISKPART>

format fs=ntfs quick

DISKPART>

exit

C:\>

exit

Copy the contents of the Windows Server 2008 R2 Foundation DVD to the USB key.

From the system tray, use the "Safely remove hardware" icon to safely remove the USB key from the computer. This helps ensure that all files have been fully written to the USB key.