Vista PE or Linux Recovery Disk

I used Norton Save / Restore for a couple of years with no problems. I periodically test my recovery procedure. Last time I tested it would not boot from the Recovery Disk. I determined that the only significant change I made was implementing Raid 1 using the Intel ICH8R/ICH9R SATA Raid Controller on my Mother Board. I contacted Norton who’s only suggestion was to reduce my memory from 4GB to 2GB. At that point I purchased TI 2009. I have been successful using TI 2009 to save complete and incremental images in windows. I’ve also restored files using both windows and the Linux Recovery Disk. In an effort to have as many options as possible, I created a Vista PE CD. When I attempt to boot from it, I had similar results as the Norton Recovery Disk. It boots quickly and then the Hard Disk Light stays steady for 45 minutes or so before it launches the Shell Swapper. At that point I can change the display resolution, etc. but it won’t go any further. I tested the Norton Recovery Disk and the Vista PE disk on my son’s PC (non raid) and has no issues. I guess my question is do I really need a Vista PE Disk or can I assume I can restore a full image on my raid system, since I can restore files using the Linux Recovery Disk? If I need a Vista PE Disk how do I install the Raid Drivers? I'm assuming that's the problem. Thanks for your help.

 

Doing a file restore is not the same as doing an image restore and it is known that if you can't restore an image it is often possible to pull files from it.

As usual, the only way to be totally certain you can restore an image is to do a test restore to a spare HD. I would say this is even more true when dealing with RAID. The next best thing is to Validate the image using the Linux boot CD which will test whether or not the archive can be read properly into RAM and recalculate the numerous checksums. Then go through the Restore Wizard as if you were going to restore an image but cancel out at the last screen which asks you to click Proceed.

 

DLE,

For VistaPE and TI 2009, you could try mustang's new MustangPEBuilder. You can add any required drivers.

 

Hello all,

Thank you for your interesting in Acronis True Image

Acronis True Image bootable disc (created with Acronis True Image Home 2009) support most RAID arrays, so you can easily restore your system if it crashes. In case you need to restore system to different hardware or add some driver while restoring the image you should use Acronis Universal Restore. Acronis Universal Restore provides an efficient solution for restoration of a hardware-independent system by replacing the crucial HAL and hard disk controller drivers. Acronis Universal Restore is an optional program feature. Acronis True Image Home 2009 can’t be used with Acronis Universal Restore.

Best regards,
--
Dmitry Nikolaev