April 2008 - Posts

• Microsoft UK - System Center Ops Manager / Config Manager Support Engineer

  Please apply here - http://members.microsoft.com/careers/international/default.aspx?loc=UKD&lang=EN&job=90302471&newapp=0 MICROSOFT UK, Thames Valley Park, Reading/UK Role Overview As a Support Engineer in the Systems Center Support Team you will work within a team of highly passionate and motivated support engineers focused on resolving escalated cases concerning Microsoft’s Premier and Partner Customer technical issues.  Within the role you will specialize in either SCCM/SMS or Ops Manager/MOM technologies. What type of person are we looking for We are looking for Individuals who have a passion for technology. You will want to be constantly challenged and really want to step up to master a technology and develop a deep knowledge of our product(s).  You will have excellent communication and strong troubleshooting skills.    Technical skills we are looking for are Experience of SMS 2003 / SCCM 2007 or MOM 200x / Operations Manager 2007.  It is desirable to have experience of: Windows 200x, SQL Server 200x, Scripting or Debug / Coding Skills. Our Promise We work with all our people to identify their true strengths and inner talents.  We also encourage our people to grow and evolve as Microsoft evolves.  A continual investment in learning and development empowers our people and leads us to achieve great results. Posted Apr 25 2008, 09:12 AM by rodtrent with 1 comment(s) Filed under: Jobs

• SMS and SCOM Individuals?

  Position Description: Participate in the planning, design, and implementation of large-scale enterprise management and/or monitoring implementations as well as complex system deployments and migration planning projects using System Center Products with a strong emphasis on System Center Configuration Manger and System Center Operations Manager implementations. Technical Proficiency: ·         SCCM 2007, Microsoft Systems Management Server (SMS) and Systems Center Operations Manager (SCOM) with experience in managing large environments ·         Broad understanding of an array of technologies and their use, such as: Windows Server, Active Directory, Exchange, SCCM, SMS, SQL Server, SharePoint, Exchange Hosted Services, SCOM, ISA, and WSUS. ·         Recent experience/knowledge of the Business Desktop Deployment Solution Accelerator and enterprise desktop deployment strategies Job Location: Minneapolis, MN 55401   Respond here:  http://www.myitforum.com/forums/m.asp?m=177865 Posted Apr 24 2008, 06:17 PM by rodtrent with 1 comment(s) Filed under: Jobs

• 1E is Hiring in the US!

  Do you have what it takes?  1E Inc is continuing its rapid expansion in the US and is looking for the best SMS/System Center talent in the country.  We are currently hiring both consultants and presales solutions engineers with a minimum of 3 – 5 years SMS consulting experience with large enterprise organizations.  System Center Configuration Manager experience is highly recommended.  If you meet these qualifications and are interested in learning more about joining our incredible team please come to booth 311 at MMS with your resume in hand or send it to usrecruitment@1e.com. _____________________________ Ed Aldrich | Solutions Engineer | 1E Inc Mobile: (401) 924-2293 US/Canada Toll Free: (866) 592 4214 Ed.Aldrich@1e.com | www.1e.com SMS MVP (2003-2007) myITforum Advisory Council and Columnist New England Area SMS User Group Facilitator Posted Apr 24 2008, 05:20 PM by rodtrent with no comments Filed under: Jobs

• myITforum Wiki Upgraded to version 2.0.30

  The myITforum Wiki service was upgraded from version 2.0.25 to 2.0.30 today. Changelog: 2008/04/22 - Version 2.0.30 Updated Russian translation Replaced all occurrences of Encoding.UTF8 with UTF8Encoding.UTF8 to fix some Unicode encoding problems Improved Search page (select all/none/invert categories filter) Added Serbian translation Improved Special Chars list in Edit.aspx Generally improved page layouts 2008/04/14 - Version 2.0.29 Fixed bug in wiki bootstrap that produced an empty MainPage Fixed bug in Edit.aspx which prevented the pages and snippet list from being displayed when editing a meta-file Changed behavior of pseudo-cache: when the Cache is disabled in the global settings, the pseudo-cache does not store data Improved thread-safety of some parts Added Preliminary support for single line breaks processing (opt-in) 2008/04/09 - Version 2.0.28 Fixed bug in Formatter Added IHost.ClearCache Enforced options management in Default.aspx (History, Code, Discuss, Code, NoRedirect) Added missing ALT attribute for CAPTCHA image in Register.aspx Globally improved JavaScript interaction with Server-Side ASP.NET controls' IDs Improved Traditional Chinese translation Added property IHost.AllUsers Added UserAccountActivity and PageActivity events to IHost Added search tool for linking pages in Edit.aspx Added Quick Upload tool in Edit.aspx, and slightly rebuilt layout Fixed issue with parameterized snippets (placeholders with no value are now removed) 2008/03/02 - Version 2.0.27 Improved page listing in AllPages.aspx Improved support for parameterized Snippets in Edit.aspx Fixed bug in Users that allows inactive users to login Added new option in IHost.AddToolbarItem (SpecialTagWrap) Fixed bug in RSS.aspx which tried to load inexistent pages Cleared CSS layout in Admin.aspx Improved Basic Stats Plugin (Monthly Sessions) Fixed bug in Preview.aspx which didn't generate a full preview. The process now performs Phase1, Phase2 and Phase3 via the FormattingPipeline Fixed bug in autogenerated TOC, which wasn't left aligned in IE Posted Apr 24 2008, 01:31 PM by rodtrent with no comments Filed under: Site News, Wiki

• Operations Manager Architect-Level Consultant

  LRS Consulting Services is seeking an Operations Manager Architect/Consultant for a 6 month, contract to hire opportunity for our client, a global hardware manufacturer. Our client is increasing the size of it's Microsoft practice due to an overwhelming demand for its services. Join this successful team with this fantastic growth opportunity! You can live anywhere in the US (close to a major airport) and will work from home when not traveling to customer locations. Responsibility: Lead large, complex System Center Operation Manager projects. Evaluate customer requirements and constraints and develop optimal design. Provide hands-on configuration and validation of design, as well as production deployment and migration. Be able to document design, configuration and project results. Provide knowledge transfer to customer technical staff and brief customer management. Principal Duties and Responsibilities: Requires advanced domain expertise, capable of designing and deploying complex solutions. The consultant should be able to nearly always resolve engagement requirements without having to escalate to additional resources. Individual has a mix of advanced technology and practical, operational acumen. The role requires both broad and deep technology knowledge and the ability to architect a solution by mapping a customer’s business problem to an end-to-end technology solution. The Consultant should possess a strong knowledge of Microsoft operating systems from Windows NT through Windows 2003; heavy Active Directory and Directory Services knowledge necessary. Expert level knowledge of SCOM required. Demonstrated ability to engage in senior level technology decision maker discussions related to agility, business value. This role manages the complete lifecycle of large and complex projects. He or she has a passion for the customer which is demonstrated through professionalism and striving for excellence in all aspects of the customer experience. Requirements: • Candidate will work in a highly decentralized and customer facing environment. • Must have expert level knowledge of Microsoft MOM 2005 or Systems Management Operations Manager 2007 • Must have 5-10+ years of hands-on technical and design experience with Microsoft Enterprise technologies • Must have 5+ years customer consulting experience • Must have a history of having performed successful Operation Management implementations for enterprise customers (large environments) • Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer • Experience with adjacency technologies ie. SMS, AD, etc. is required • 70%+ travel is required • Education: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent industry experience • Must be able to take a consultative approach to develop, present and explain the value of proposed infrastructure solutions to customers • Will act as a consultant to field technicians, customers and in pre-sales support. This person must be able to build and maintain a network of technical resources and across functionalities to allow for higher productivity and increased business • Must have the ability to function in a technical lead capacity and may manage projects or staff Hired candidate will perform a wide variety of technical and administrative enterprise solution assessment, design, validation, development, delivery. Strong analysis and communications skills, as well as the ability to resolve problems are required for this position. If you are interested in hearing more, please contact me asap. This is a fantastic opportunity! Melissa Holmes – Senior Technical Recruiter LRS Consulting Services 9200 Indian Creek Parkway, Overland Park, Kansas, 66210 O: 913.339.9200 x2312 Melissa.Holmes@lrs.com | www.lrs.com LRS is a privately-held company with corporate headquarters located in Springfield, IL . More than half of the Fortune 500 and Fortune 500 Service companies rely on industry-leading LRS solutions, with products in use in over 30 countries. Gartner and others recognize LRS as a global IT leader. Software Magazine consistently ranks LRS as one of the top 200 software companies in the world. LRS has over 25 years of consulting experience providing a variety of consulting services to our customers alone and in partnership with others. LRS was named the 2005 Microsoft Advanced Infrastructure Worldwide Partner of the Year. LRS is a Microsoft managed partner and is part of their partner advisory council. LRS is one of the top 150 Microsoft partners in the USA. In addition to providing excellent infrastructure and application development consultants, LRS supports a broad range of staff augmentation needs. Posted Apr 24 2008, 10:08 AM by rodtrent with 2 comment(s) Filed under: Jobs

• SMS Administrator - Dallas, Texas

  There is no relocation available for this position.  All interested candidates must already live in the D/FW area. This company ranks among the top three in their respective industry and are amongst FORTUNE magazine's list of America's most admired companies.  Their executive management team is considered in the Top 20 by industry experts.  They offer great opportunities for systems administrators who desire to expand their technical skills and grow professionally in an enterprise environment.  They offer unique positions that require individuals with varied experience and a great level of talent and potential for professional growth. This individual will be a part of the Corporate Information Systems group.  Their primary responsibilities will be focused on the daily administration of enterprise SMS deployment.  Thorough knowledge of SMS setup and support techniques is required. The candidate must be familiar with Windows domains, Active Directory, server and desktop hardware and server security. The SMS system admin will gather requirements, design and manage projects, work with software development teams and business sponsors. Scope Manage 5000+ desktop environment by using Microsoft Systems Management Services and Configursoft’s Enterprise Configuration Manager Create/Update PC images Ensure deployment of critical patch updates with SMS Ensure compliance of standard build with SMS and ECM Test new PC operating systems Design and deploy install packages for corporate sponsored software Key Deliverables Design, deploy, administer and support SMS 2003 Extensive knowledge of Windows XP and Windows 2000/2003 Server Provide SMS Report Management Working knowledge of Active Directory (AD) and SMS script writing Some SQL Query Development (related to SMS database) Overall understanding of software package development Maintain SMS test laboratory Microsoft patch distribution and testing Audit of hardware/software inventory via ECM or SMS Microsoft Office suite knowledge (e.g. Word, Excel, Access etc.) Strong understanding of Network principles and technologies (TCP/IP, WAN, LAN, VPN, wireless etc.) Respond here:  http://www.myitforum.com/forums/m.asp?m=177752 Posted Apr 23 2008, 12:04 PM by rodtrent with no comments Filed under: Jobs

• Congrats to Sean McHugh - winner of the free pass to MMS 2008!

  Sean McHugh is the winner of our April 2008 drawing sponsored by Secure Vantage!  Sean wins a free attendance pass to MMS 2008! Read more about the drawing: http://www.myitforum.com/contest/swag/April2008.asp  Congratulations, Sean!  See you there! Posted Apr 22 2008, 08:09 AM by rodtrent with 1 comment(s) Filed under: Site News, MMS

• Your official myITforum.com Party invitation for MMS 2008

  http://www.myitforum.com/absolutenl/nls/myITforum_MMS2008.htm Posted Apr 21 2008, 09:02 PM by rodtrent with no comments Filed under: Site News, MMS

• Invitation - Brian Mason & John Nelson presenting at Minneapolis System Center User Group

  If you'll be in the Minneapolis area on Wed 4/23/08, then maybe you could come by the Microsoft Bloomington Office at 4:30pm.  Brian Mason and I will be presenting a dry-run of our MMS-2008 session entitled: SY35 SQL Performance Tips for SMS / SCCM Reporting Gurus (now meeting in Veronese 2401B) We'd like to get some feedback and questions from you on our presentation BEFORE we get to MMS.  If you're interested in attending our presentation (or at least interested in the Pizza and beer) then please come to Microsoft's Bloomington Office - 8300 Norman Center Drive, Suite 950, Bloomington, MN. http://www.miscusergroup.org/ Oh yeah, PLEASE email Joey Gleason to RSVP that you'll be attending so we get the right amount of food/drinks. Posted Apr 21 2008, 04:34 PM by rodtrent with no comments Filed under: User Groups

• Today's Download; April 17, 2008

  Microsoft Exchange Server 2007 Management Pack for Operations Manager 2007 The Microsoft Exchange Server 2007 management pack is designed to be used for monitoring Exchange 2007 events, collecting Exchange component-specific performance counters in one central location, and for... Posted Apr 17 2008, 02:08 PM by myitforum with no comments Filed under: Downloads

• Today's Articles; April 17, 2008

  System Center Configuration Manager ConfigMgr R2's Client Status Reporting by Paul Thomsen - 4/17/2008 The SMS Client Health Tool (CHT) is being updated in the upcoming ConfigMgr 2007 R2 release, and renamed as Client Status Reporting (CSR). SMS 2003 SMS 2003 Performance - The performance benefits of an x64 DP in a busy SMS 2003 hierarchy by John Nelson - 4/17/2008 Although x64 is officially unsupported in SMS 2003 for any site components, the reality is that you CAN put the Distribution Point role on an x64 server in SMS 2003. System Center Essentials Create a Simple Event Detection Monitor in Essentials 2007 by Gwen Zierdt - 4/17/2008 How to Create a Simple Log File Event Detection Monitor in Essentials 2007. Scripting Using conditional logic with VBScript (IPStackSize) by Steve Thompson - 4/17/2008 One of the things I really like about VBScript is the ability to use conditional logic. Patch Management KB948496 Ate My Network by Paul Strain - 4/17/2008 We started having weird issues today with users in a particular site not being able to log in, not mapping drives, etc. Windows Do you have the Windows Vista SP1 Help Files Installed? by John Gormly - 4/17/2008 You might not. Here's how to get them. Microsoft Office Access 2007 Runtime Now Available by John Gormly - 4/17/2008 If no end-user customization is required (including report modifications), you can choose to distribute Access 2007 solutions so that they run without requiring a full installation of Access 2007. Hardware and Gadgets KB948496 Ate My Network by Paul Strain - 4/17/2008 We started having weird issues today with users in a particular site not being able to log in, not mapping drives, etc. Microsoft Deployment MDT 2008 Install issue and Resolution by Christopher Stauffer - 4/17/2008 I had an issue where certain files that had been replaced from the original MDT had not been updated when I upgraded to MDT 2008. Posted Apr 17 2008, 02:08 PM by myitforum with no comments Filed under: Articles

• Community Server 2008 released -- myITforum.com to update after MMS 2008

  With all the planning and preparation for MMS 2008 going on behind the scenes, we’re really quite busy.  So, after MMS 2008 look for an upgrade to our blogging system. Here’s some cool, new features to look forward to (as well as — I hope — some stability fixes): Enterprise reporting and analytics to help dissect, analyze, and trend user and community behavior. Deep integration with Microsoft Exchange, Active Directory, and Microsoft Office SharePoint Server. For developers, Community Server 2008 includes a complete Web Services (REST) API for easily integrating and extending the platform. Social streams enable people to quickly see what friends or others in the community are actively contributing to. Robust media gallery for sharing content published in the community or from external sources such as YouTube, Flickr, and more. Enterprise file storage enabling both local storage as well as integration with services such as Amazon S3. Widgets for easily sharing data between applications. Included widget support for Google, and more. On demand groups / social circles make it simple for intranets and even large-scale public communities to quickly form small micro-communities. Community Server 2008 is one of the first software platforms to include built-in support for OpenID. Community Server 2008 includes many improvements to existing features such as multi-user blogging tools, robust message boards, and person-to-person messaging. Posted Apr 16 2008, 06:31 PM by myitforum with no comments Filed under: Site News, Web blog news

• Today's Downloads; April 16, 2008

  Managing a Windows Compute Cluster Server 2003 Cluster with System Center Operations Manager 2007 This white paper discusses System Center Operations Manager 2007 and the management packs, as well as scenarios for using the Windows Compute Cluster Server 2003 Administrator Console to monitor a Windows...   Microsoft Biztalk Server 2006 Management Pack for SC Operations Manager 2007 The BizTalk Server Management Pack for Operations Manager 2007 is a entirely new management pack that provides comprehensive discovery and monitoring of BizTalk Server components and applications. In addition... Posted Apr 16 2008, 01:34 PM by myitforum with no comments Filed under: Downloads

• Today's Articles; April 16, 2008

  System Center Configuration Manager The Admin Studio Configuration Manager Edition Download by Don Hite - 4/16/2008 The updated Admin Studio Configuration Manager Edition is now available from Macrovision in collaboration with the Microsoft System Center team for use with ConfigMgr 2007... MOM MOM 2005 Query: Enumerate Cluster Computers that belong to a computer group by Scott Moss - 4/16/2008 Use this query to enumerate cluster computers that belong to a computer group. System Center Essentials Essentials 2007 and Remote Operations Manager 2007 by Gwen Zierdt - 4/16/2008 Remote Operations Manager 2007 is a partner solution to provide remote managed services to small and midsize customers. Scripting A hardware inventory extension for HALs by Paul Thomsen - 4/16/2008 Here's a technique for collecting details about the HAL used by your computers. Software Management The Admin Studio Configuration Manager Edition Download by Don Hite - 4/16/2008 The updated Admin Studio Configuration Manager Edition is now available from Macrovision in collaboration with the Microsoft System Center team for use with ConfigMgr 2007... Windows Reliability Monitor in Windows Vista by John Gormly - 4/16/2008 If you're running Windows Vista, have you ever taken a look at Reliability Monitor? Windows Mobile Worldmate for Pocket PC now free by John Gormly - 4/16/2008 I've used to use Worldmate all the time until they jacked their rates up. Their Pro version is still $75, but there is now a free version available. SQL Server SQL Query To Retrieve The Machine Name And Asset Tag For A Specified Serial Number by Don Hite - 4/16/2008 This SQL Query will allow you to search for a machine and its asset tag from a known serial number. Microsoft Office Create Customize MSP file for chaining Save as PDF or XPS by Christopher Stauffer - 4/16/2008 Use the steps for creating a customized MSP file for chaining Save as PDF or XPS. Miscellaneous Paint.Net 3.3 by John Gormly - 4/16/2008 Paint.NET is free image and photo editing software for computers that run Windows. Posted Apr 16 2008, 01:34 PM by myitforum with no comments Filed under: Articles

• SMS/SCCM List poll ends on Friday

  Over time there have been more and more discussions on the SMS/SCCM email list about Microsoft Deployment/BDD 2007 technologies. While this is a valid System Center topic area, some folks feel that this topic should have its own special list, due to the volume of replies at times, and due to their own interests or disinterests. As a participant of the SMS/SCCM list, what's your thought?   Should the myITforum.com SMS/SCCM list be separated into two lists? One for SMS/SCCM and one for Microsoft Deployment Toolkit.   Participate here:   http://www.myitforum.com/absolutepm/polls/sms_list_separation.asp Posted Apr 15 2008, 08:24 PM by myitforum with no comments Filed under: Polls

• MMS Alumni help needed

  If you would like to meet new attendees from your area at MMS 2008, please plan on attending the SU33 “Conquering the Summit” session on Monday afternoon just prior to the Expo opening. Many of you have helped out the ‘freshmen class’ at this session in previous years and I kindly ask for your help again. The session starts at 4:30pm but Alumni don’t need to be there until 5pm.  The session will close prior to 5:30pm so that you can run with the mob to the MyITForum.com booth for a party badge. J Email me offline if you plan to help out. Thanks, Warren Byle, MCSE DELL | Information Technology Client Infrastructure Engineering Phone: 512.724.2626 Email: warren_byle@dell.com Posted Apr 15 2008, 07:57 PM by myitforum with no comments Filed under: Site News

• Michael Niehaus at the Indiana Windows User Group meeting tomorrow night

  April 08 Special Event Desktop Deployment Meeting will be on Wednesday April 16th 2008. Register Now: http://iwugapr08.eventbrite.com/ Learn about the latest technology innovations that make it easier than ever to deploy the Windows Vista operating system, applications, and drivers to business desktops. The Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2008 (MDT) combines recommended deployment practices and methodologies with the proper tools and technologies you need to achieve scalable, repeatable, and cost-effective desktop software deployments in your organization. This presentation provides an in-depth exploration of MDT 2008, including enhancements for efficient Lite Touch network-based deployment. Directions: From wherever you are joining us, find Meridian St. (US 31) on the north side - it’s 12 o’clock on the I-465 dial. Go east on 96th St. Parkwood Four is the second entrance on the left if you’re coming from Meridian St. Turn Left into the entrance. At the 4-way stop, turn right. 500 E. 96th St. is the second building on the left. The 1st floor conference room is, well – on the first floor. It’s right next to the MBP Catering café to make it easy to find! Parking: Parkwood Four has both covered parking (garage behind the building) and outside parking (in front of the building). Parking is free. Snacks and Refreshments: Join us at 6:00PM for pizza and soda, courtesy of Microsoft! Get there on time to enjoy your fair share! Agenda • 6:00 – 6:30 Pizza / Social Time • 6:30 – 6:45 Introduction • 6:45 – 8:30 Event: Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2008 – Mike Niehaus • 8:30 – 8:45 Q&A / Door Prizes Speaker Bio: Michael Niehaus is a Systems Design Engineer with the Microsoft Core Infrastructure Solutions group, working on the Solution Accelerator for Business Desktop Deployment. He specializes in desktop deployment and related technologies, including SMS 2003, the OS Deployment Feature Pack, Windows XP, and Office 2003. Prior to joining Microsoft, Michael spent 13 years with Marathon Oil Company working on mainframe, database, and LAN-based systems. He oversaw the implementation of Marathon's PC Standardization Project's web-based Software Delivery System. Posted Apr 15 2008, 04:14 PM by myitforum with 1 comment(s) Filed under: User Groups

• MMS 2008 registration is closed, but there's still a chance to attend thanks to our good friends at Secure Vantage!

  MMS 2008 registration is closed!  MMS 2008 has sold out!  “Secure Vantage to the System Center community's rescue!” YOU could win a free pass donated by Secure Vantage!   And...in addition, you will receive a VIP pass to the Secure Vantage bar on Thursday night of MMS 2008! MMS 2008 is the biggest MMS yet, with over 4,000 attendees.  Enjoy sessions, labs, and networking at the largest and best conference of it's kind. What's it worth to you?  A $25 donation gets you entered to win and the money goes toward improving and expanding the myITforum.com party! Register to win here: http://www.myitforum.com/contest/swag/april2008.asp Posted Apr 15 2008, 03:50 PM by myitforum with 2 comment(s) Filed under: Site News, Contest News

• Chicago Windows User Group Meeting, Thursday, April 17, 2008

  Missed registering for the MMS or couldn’t get approved?  Still interested in some quality information from one of our favorite folks at Microsoft?  This Thursday Michael Niehaus will be presenting at the Chicago Windows User Group Meeting.   http://portal.cwug.net   Michael Niehaus from the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (previously Business Desktop Deployment or BDD) team will be at our meeting!  With the release of Microsoft Deployment Toolkit 2008, he will have a lot to share with us.  There will also be a presentation on SharePoint at the meeting and communicating plans for CWUG going forward. Thursday, April 17th 5:00 – 5:30 p.m. Food/Networking 5:30 – 6:00 p.m. Room Introductions 6:00 – 6:15 p.m. Welcome 6:15 – 7:30 p.m. Michael Niehaus – Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2008 7:30 – 7:45 p.m. Break 7:45 – 9:00 p.m. SharePoint Presentation Location: 77 W. Wacker Dr., Suite 2300, Chicago, IL 60601   Posted Apr 15 2008, 03:46 PM by myitforum with no comments Filed under: User Groups

• Today's Download; April 15, 2008

  Microsoft System Center Mobile Device Manager 2008 Resource Kit - Self Service Portal MDM Self Service Portal is a Web-based interface that lets users manage their Windows powered mobile devices in an MDM system. On this portal, users can enroll their Windows powered mobile devices, monitor... Posted Apr 15 2008, 01:40 PM by myitforum with no comments Filed under: Downloads

• Today's Articles; April 15, 2008

  System Center Configuration Manager HotFix Watch: A software inventory operation does not work correctly in ConfigMgr 2007 by Rod Trent - 4/15/2008 This problem occurs because the software inventory module does not validate the time attributes of inventoried files before it processes the inventory data into the SMS database. Scripting