Automating application installs

[Guest Bub]

I have been using AutoIt to automate the installation of some standard software we install on all of our PCs and Laptops such as Adobe Reader 5.0, Winzip 8.0, etc. Basically I step through the install and run it with the keyboard and record my keystrokes and the window titles. Then I write my script using the WinWaitActive and Send commands and then I compile it into an exe and place it on the server. Is there a better way to automate the install process for applications? Just wondering how other people are doing this. Thanks for any input.

[Batch]

Bub, look up the commands "ControlSend" and "ControlSetText". If you use them instead of the standard "Send" you can manipulate hidden windows, complete installs while they are minimized, and even if the workstation is locked.

[Guest Guest]

Have a look here:

http://unattended.sourceforge.net/installers.html