The two musketeers: all in one and one for all!

Abstract

The University of Delaware's (UD) development of its Student Multimedia Design Center (SMDC) provides a unique and innovative computing environment for students. With the installation of new dual-boot Macintosh systems running Mac OS X and Windows XP in the computing site, new maintenance and administration challenges surfaced. Major issues included imaging both platforms and enabling students to use their central University account to log into both operating systems. UD uses UNIX systems for campus accounts, which added a layer of complexity to the problem. Other issues such as creating images and compatibility with our University VendPrint system had to be resolved. By pioneering solutions, we are able to offer the first of its kind computer lab on campus that is tied into our central systems, providing a truly seamless environment for students. This paper will explore topics including Xserve server setup and configuration, dual-boot configuration using rEFIt and Deep Freeze, creating images with NetRestore, and the imaging process. We will also explore specific image deployment issues and solutions using different applications including Apple Remote Desktop and Mac HelpMate. Finally, we will review new features implemented in our environment, most notably the ability to incorporate an authentication method on both Mac OS X and Windows XP using our central systems, and emerging issues.