Automated ISO installation and configuration of guest OS’es

[MKruer201110141]

I am trying to setup some automation testing for ISO installation.

I currently have the ability to mouth ISO and install the Guest OS however because of the current cobbler boot loader, I need to do some additional “key press” to select the correct option to install the Guest OS.

Is there some sort of tutorial or examples where I am able to pass key strokes to the guess os via command line using the esxi shell?

[MKruer201110141]

Some additional details.
I am using the VMware-vCenter-Server-Appliance-5.1.0.10200

With the VMware vSphere 5 Standard Licensed for 2 physical CPUs (unlimited cores per CPU)

[SatyS]

If you want to automate the ISO installation you can always go for scripted install.

please go through these for more info on scripted installation

VMware KB: Deploying ESXi 5.x using the Scripted Install feature

Hope this helps!!

-SatyS

[MKruer201110141]

Unfortunately that method has already been ruled out as a option. We want to test the iso file itself with the built in kickstart. Oracle Virtual box supports passing key commands to the Guest OS, I am sure that ESXi does as well.

[continuum]

have a look at the easy-install feature in Workstation

the wizard can create autoinstall-floppies/isos which may serve as a start for ESXi