The Install Tips Thread

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Mark, this funcionality is not provided by Parallels Desktop. Someone posted instruction on this issue on the forum a while ago, but we wouldn't recommend to do so.
 
otoc said:
I've gotten tired of reading through pages and pages to find a hint on dealing with a new install. Perhaps this thread can be one of solutions and not problem posts. To help this concept, if you have a problem with a tip post or have an install issue, then create a new thread until someone can verify and come up with a solution. I think it is best to state your hardware and software before stating your tip. That way, different configs designed for each user can be quickly found.

Here are mine for BootCamp and WinXP Pro SP3 using Parallels 4.0.3810 (1/23/09 build or 23/1/09 for non US readers).
Hardware--
Model Name: MacBook Pro
Model Identifier: MacBookPro3,1
Processor Name: Intel Core 2 Duo
Processor Speed: 2.2 GHz
Number Of Processors: 1
Total Number Of Cores: 2
L2 Cache: 4 MB
Memory: 2 GB
Bus Speed: 800 MHz
Boot ROM Version: MBP31.0070.B07
SMC Version: 1.16f8

Boot Camp Prep
Prepare that install by making sure it runs correctly. Why bring problems into your Parallels VM?

I've found Winclone to be great when a BootCamp partition got whacked and started causing corruption. Now I first back up BootCamp after a good install -- then after the following steps are done -- I create the VM based on the BootCamp partition.
--When you have problems, try using the BootCamp Asst to delete the partitionReplica handbags and start over again. Make sure you have a cloned backup.
--I've had no issues using the built in Windows ntfs conversion for a smaller Fat32 partition when getting a larger drive. You'll need that if you go over the Fat32 partition size. Don't worry about checking the setup in the Disk Utility after having the BootCamp Asst make a large partition size, for it will say it's Fat32. Once you either install a new Windows operating system and partition it as ntfs or clone a ntfs backup, the ntfs partition will take hold.
--Nor have I had problems migrating to a new and larger hard drive on my laptop. All thanks to the free Winclone. It saved me a reinstall. For the MacOS partition, I used SuperDuper after removing the BootCamp partition.
--Make sure the BootCamp drivers are properly running and you are using v2.1. Reinstall the 2.1 BootCamp drivers if you are having problems. See if that helps. If you uninstall the BootCamp drivers you will need the 10.5 install DVD to first install the 2.0 version berfor the 2.1 update. Check the device manager to make sure everything is running with proper drivers.
--In BootCamp, run a drive utility to correct any file errors and then defrag.
--Use TweakUI (a MS Powertoy) to set the "login" to auto with the password set if windows opens to the login screen for a password. That prevents the Parallels auto install from freezing which makes you have to break into manual with the four finger salute of Ctrl-Option-Command-R. The install must have windows open to the desktop to correctly run based on my experience.
--Turn off all anti-virus programs that monitor script behavior. That will freeze the auto install too.
--If you have Parallels Tools installed, use the Windows "Add Remove Software" control panel app while running in BootCamp to uninstall it.
--Boot into MacOS and back the BootCamp partition up in Winclone to save all this work.

Now you are ready.

Parallels Install
--Open up Parallels and delete the VM if this is a reinstall. Use the delete files option.
--On the first start Parallels opens VM Setup Asst. At the "Operating System Detection" screen select "Skip Detection", make your OpSys selection on the next, and on the next screen select "Custom" so you choose the BootCamp partition.
--Run through all the remaining screens with your selected options.
--When the last screen asks if you want to run it, SAY NO for there are more options available elsewhere. (Figure almost every time you make configuration changes to the VM you will most likely have to uninstall Tools and then reinstall. So it's best not to allow Parallels to start up Windows at this point for it will install Tools automatically)
--Now you can click on the configuration button and have all the options available to set your VM up. Go through each setting on the left and make your choices. Click "OK".
--Now "Start" the VM.
--Note: If you have run out of activation 'points' with Windows, it will freeze the auto install. If you see the progress bar stop for 2-5 minutes, then use Ctrl-Option-Command-R to break into manual mode and you will probably see the MS "You have to activte" window. You might find you have no mouse or network capabilities for this has stopped the Parallels install at a early point. I've found the keyboard works on a laptop (don't know about towers with USB keyboards) and have been able to go through all the steps with a friendly call center rep from India via the telephone using the "Tab", arrows, and "Enter" keys. Try it. You'll see field and button changes if this method is successful.
--After the auto install completes and Windows starts up, the cpu will probably be burning hot. Shut down Windows and Parallels, and Restart the Mac.
--Go back and start your VM. Decide if you want the Kaspersky Anti-Virus installed.
--Let the VM sit for a while to allow all the prefetching to be done.
--Change your login options back in Tweak UI, and activate your Anti-Virus (script blocking program) if you had shut it down.

Works for me, and I've tried everything in the past to the point of having to call India for permission to run windows. No high cpu, a quick Windows start. I'm actually pretty happy with V4 aside from a few quirks.

One last tip. When tools is properly installed, you will always see a sprocket icon on the lower right of the window, even before you start the VM. If you get a warning on the bottom of the screen that Parallels Tools is not installed then you are not operating correctly. I've run for months not realizing that because after windows starts up the notice goes away and the Parallels Menu bar may only say 'Reinstall Tools' instead of 'Install'. I've gotten the high cpu issues with that one thinking Tools was fully installed when it really wasn't.

Now I don't expect this to work for everyone nor do I think this is the only way. That's the purpose of the thread if it takes hold. Solutions to try without the baggage of multiple pages of troubleshooting. Been there, read that...

Any other tips out there? For example, how's Acronis working out?
Click to expand...
i am the guy who has the same problems just like you too,useful suggestion is needed.
 
install my broken old Windows PC-data with Parallels

Hy all,
I heard that I can install with the Parallels transporter my old PC-sytem from the harddisk.

My old Laptop with two hard disks inside got broken, but the hard disks are working fine!
So I can't install the Parallels transporter agent on the PC-System to prepare the data migration like discribed in the P. manual.

Is it possible to install my windows system without this agent preparation? My Mac-dealer told it will work, but I cannot find a way.

1. I did a partition with boot camp of the size of my old PC-System
2. Installed Parallels Desktop 5
3. Opened the P. transporter
- option: PC
- option: from harddisk
- than opened the program partition on my old hardisk...
what is the windows file in need to start the migration ... ???

It would be nice if someone has a hint for me.

Thank in advance,
Michael
 
My Two Cents, But Long

My systems were XP Pro SP2 (with some SP3 and 4 updates, but NOT with SP3 due to unresolvable hardware conflicts) so what I'm reporting relates to that operating system, but might be useful to others. I've done two migrations and have the scars to prove it. Note: I am not using Boot Camp in any of my installations.

Get your PC ready to migrate first:
Run chkdsk to repair any errors to harddrive BEFORE you migrate
Make certain partitions, if any, are the way you want them (although you should download the free Acronis Disk Manager to work with them, you need to know that Acronis DM will not make changes AND be able to save your data as Partition Magic does. So if you need to increase/decrease any partitions prior to the move do it now!
Download ERUNT (free) and perform a full registry backup.
Either run Eusing Free Registry Cleaner or the NTREGOPT optimization package that's installed with ERUNT. I think RegistryCleaner may be a more conservative. Be sure you have a backup of your Registry BEFORE running either program to clean out superfluous stuff from your Registry. Be sure to set it up to backup the registry prior to any repairs.
I use ATF Cleaner (also free, but donations accepted) to clean all temp & junk files, as well as the Recycle Bin. You can select only those areas to be deleted. It's fast and thorough.
Re-boot and make certain your Registry changes are okay and your system is working properly. If not, restore from the ERUNT backup. RegistryCleaner should be set to store a copy prior to repairing your registry. Being a pessimist, I use both.
Perform a thorough anti-virus scan of your hard drive(s). I also ran Malwarebytes.org Anti-Malware's thorough scan. You don't want to have any nasties get imported.
Do a complete backup of your PC to an external hard drive. I used FBackup . . also free and it actually works. I've purchased several backup packages that NEVER worked, so it was nice to find one that did.
Download Parallels Transporter Agent from the Parallels Website (always download from the website as I've had problems with corrupt CDs right out of the box!)
Uninstall your anti-virus prior to migration AND either be absolutely, positively certain your firewall, if any, is set so that the local network is "trusted" OR uninstall it as well. A migration via a home network is much faster and the preferable way to migrate BUT it will NOT work if a firewall is in place. And, don't think you can simply uninstall one using Add/Remove Programs. I uninstalled ZoneAlarm, there was no firewall in the task bar, and none in start up (that I could see) but it was there (findable only when we went to Control Panel/Security/. If you have to uninstall, don't waste your time using Control Panel/Add/Remove Programs. Instead download and install Revo Uninstaller (a free uninstaller that saved my bacon several times with programs that left traces which caused all sorts of unanticipated problems). After Revo's done its thing, it will provide a screen with options on how to remove items for from your Registry. I used the Safe mode and manually verified all entries to be deleted. You can let Revo do it automatically OR manually go through and check each item. You will reinstall your anti-virus once the vm is inside the Apple and you can install your firewall there as well. Be sure to empty all temporary files and the Recycle Bin. Reboot.

Connect either the Parallels-supplied USB cable between the two computers OR make certain both computers are connected to you local TRUSTED network (mine is behind a router, as I believe most are).

On the Apple, start up Parallels, click Import and the Transporter will appear on your screen. Open the Transporter Agent on the PC. You should see a screen which offers you three methods of migration. Select whichever you wish. In my case, although Device Manager said I had USB2 ports, Parallels reported all of them as 1.1 which would've taken 7 hours to migrate the PC into the Apple. I elected to use the network.

On the Apple for a network connection, you'll probably be required to log onto the PC with your Administrator password so have it handy. Once the connection is made, things go easily.

If you have serious problems, it's worth it to pay the $20 for tech support. A serious problem (which I've had on two migrations) can only be resolved by a remote session. In my last one, the tech in Russia (I think) had to open remote sessions on BOTH computers (the PC and the Apple) to finally get the migration to work. With any luck, you won't have to do this.

Once it's done, shut down your vm and immediately backup the entire apple system (including Parallels and the vm) to an external firewire drive with SuperDuper (which is bootable) - downloadable for free, but the paid version is worth it for SmartBackup. Then, within Parallels, clone your vm (it must be turned off). I bought a LaCie 1T drive which I set up in three partitions: one for SuperDuper Backups, one for the vm clones with the biggest partition (2/3 or more) for Time Machine. Then, you can breath easy.
TobyT
 
Last edited:
If it doesn't help and you can't ungrab your keyboard and mouse - take problem report after restart and post report ID here. It helps us to understand and resolve your problem.
 
just an update (with earlier config info)

I upgraded from v4 to v5 on and had an uneventful upgrade.

Updated to 10.6 and just ran v6 upgrade. no issues with turning of all anti virus and setting up auto login for winXP
 
The locations of the apachectl and http(s)dctl binaries often vary. If your system has locate or whereis or which commands, these can assist you in finding your server control programs.

Different examples of compiling PHP for apache are as follows:

./configure --with-apxs --with-pgsql

peter jerry
 
I agree with you

I agree with you ,I think it is a good tools!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Comment

This is a wonderful opinion. The things mentioned are unanimous and needs to be appreciated by everyone. I appreciate the concern which is been rose. The things need to be sorted out because it is about the individual but it can be with everyone.
 
otoc said:
I've gotten tired of reading through pages and pages to find a hint on dealing with a new install. Perhaps this thread can be one of solutions and not problem posts. To help this concept, if you have a problem with a tip post or have an install issue, then create a new thread until someone can verify and come up with a solution. I think it is best to state your hardware and software before stating your tip. That way, different configs designed for each user can be quickly found.

Here are mine for BootCamp and WinXP Pro SP3 using Parallels 4.0.3810 (1/23/09 build or 23/1/09 for non US readers).
Hardware--
Model Name: MacBook Pro
Model Identifier: MacBookPro3,1
Processor Name: Intel Core 2 Duo
Processor Speed: 2.2 GHz
Number Of Processors: 1
Total Number Of Cores: 2
L2 Cache: 4 MB
Memory: 2 GB
Bus Speed: 800 MHz
Boot ROM Version: MBP31.0070.B07
SMC Version: 1.16f8

Boot Camp Prep
Prepare that install by making sure it runs correctly. Why bring problems into your Parallels VM?

I've found Winclone to be great when a BootCamp partition got whacked and started causing corruption. Now I first back up BootCamp after a good install -- then after the following steps are done -- I create the VM based on the BootCamp partition.
--When you have problems, try using the BootCamp Asst to delete the partition and start over again. Make sure you have a cloned backup.
--I've had no issues using the built in Windows ntfs conversion for a smaller Fat32 partition when getting a larger drive. You'll need that if you go over the Fat32 partition size. Don't worry about checking the setup in the Disk Utility after having the BootCamp Asst make a large partition size, for it will say it's Fat32. Once you either install a new Windows operating system and partition it as ntfs or clone a ntfs backup, the ntfs partition will take hold.
--Nor have I had problems migrating to a new and larger hard drive on my laptop. All thanks to the free Winclone. It saved me a reinstall. For the MacOS partition, I used SuperDuper after removing the BootCamp partition.
--Make sure the BootCamp drivers are properly running and you are using v2.1. Reinstall the 2.1 BootCamp drivers if you are having problems. See if that helps. If you uninstall the BootCamp drivers you will need the 10.5 install DVD to first install the 2.0 version berfor the 2.1 update. Check the device manager to make sure everything is running with proper drivers.
--In BootCamp, run a drive utility to correct any file errors and then defrag.
--Use TweakUI (a MS Powertoy) to set the "login" to auto with the password set if windows opens to the login screen for a password. That prevents the Parallels auto install from freezing which makes you have to break into manual with the four finger salute of Ctrl-Option-Command-R. The install must have windows open to the desktop to correctly run based on my experience.
--Turn off all anti-virus programs that monitor script behavior. That will freeze the auto install too.
--If you have Parallels Tools installed, use the Windows "Add Remove Software" control panel app while running in BootCamp to uninstall it.
--Boot into MacOS and back the BootCamp partition up in Winclone to save all this work.

Now you are ready.

Parallels Install
--Open up Parallels and delete the VM if this is a reinstall. Use the delete files option.
--On the first start Parallels opens VM Setup Asst. At the "Operating System Detection" screen select "Skip Detection", make your OpSys selection on the next, and on the next screen select "Custom" so you choose the BootCamp partition.
--Run through all the remaining screens with your selected options.
--When the last screen asks if you want to run it, SAY NO for there are more options available elsewhere. (Figure almost every time you make configuration changes to the VM you will most likely have to uninstall Tools and then reinstall. So it's best not to allow Parallels to start up Windows at this point for it will install Tools automatically)
--Now you can click on the configuration button and have all the options available to set your VM up. Go through each setting on the left and make your choices. Click "OK".
--Now "Start" the VM.
--Note: If you have run out of activation 'points' with Windows, it will freeze the auto install. If you see the progress bar stop for 2-5 minutes, then use Ctrl-Option-Command-R to break into manual mode and you will probably see the MS "You have to activte" window. You might find you have no mouse or network capabilities for this has stopped the Parallels install at a early point. I've found the keyboard works on a laptop (don't know about towers with USB keyboards) and have been able to go through all the steps with a friendly call center rep from India via the telephone using the "Tab", arrows, and "Enter" keys. Try it. You'll see field and button changes if this method is successful.
--After the auto install completes and Windows starts up, the cpu will probably be burning hot. Shut down Windows and Parallels, and Restart the Mac.
--Go back and start your VM. Decide if you want the Kaspersky Anti-Virus installed.
--Let the VM sit for a while to allow all the prefetching to be done.
--Change your login options back in Tweak UI, and activate your Anti-Virus (script blocking program) if you had shut it down.

Works for me, and I've tried everything in the past to the point of having to call India for permission to run windows. No high cpu, a quick Windows start. I'm actually pretty happy with V4 aside from a few quirks.

One last tip. When tools is properly installed, you will always see a sprocket icon on the lower right of the window, even before you start the VM. If you get a warning on the bottom of the screen that Parallels Tools is not installed then you are not operating correctly. I've run for months not realizing that because after windows starts up the notice goes away and the Parallels Menu bar may only say 'Reinstall Tools' instead of 'Install'. I've gotten the high cpu issues with that one thinking Tools was fully installed when it really wasn't.

Now I don't expect this to work for everyone nor do I think this is the only way. That's the purpose of the thread if it takes hold. Solutions to try without the baggage of multiple pages of troubleshooting. Been there, read that...

Any other tips out there? For example, how's Acronis working out?
Click to expand...
I having problem with data card connectivity to Mac Book Pro. Thanks for the detailed information about the application installation in Mac Book Pro. Keep updating.
 
Hi otoc

Thank you for your detailed instructions, great job.

Why is it necessary though to install Bootcamp before installing Parallels? I don't recall installing Bootcamp when I installed 3.0 (build 5604) some time ago.

At the moment 3.0 is working OK for me and interested in upgrading to 4.0 but hesitant because I had some problems reinstalling in the past. I recall having to remove all related Parallel files because the new installation apparently does not remove them.

In the event that I decide to upgrade, should I just follow your instructions or is there more to do when upgrading?

Would I need to re-actvate Windows ?
 
VM guest

I'm afraid I don't understand. If you are going to use a Bootcamp install as the guest operating system, it needs to be installed first. Regardless, my main point to make is for users to know firsthand that the BootCamp install is working properly before making it a VM guest. That's to simplify any possible troubleshooting.
 
Make sure you have a legit copy of Ms windows otherwise there is a new "Genuine Microsoft Windows" dialogue Windows introduces that cause the automatic conversion process to hang at Step 2 and 3, probably because it is unanticipated the automatic upgrade process.
 
Anyone know what this means? I get it when I try to install linux with Parrallels.

"(initramfs) Mount: mounting /dev/loop0 on //filesystem.spuashfs failed: Input/output error
Can not mount /dev/loop0 (/cdrom/casper/filesystem.squashfs) on //filesystem.squashfs"

I can't get it to load.
 
Daily | Daily.com

otoc said:
I've gotten tired of reading through pages and pages to find a hint on dealing with a new install. Perhaps this thread can be one of solutions and not problem posts. To help this concept, if you have a problem with a tip post or have an install issue, then create a new thread until someone can verify and come up with a solution. I think it is best to state your hardware and software before stating your tip. That way, different configs designed for each user can be quickly found.

Here are mine for BootCamp and WinXP Pro SP3 using Parallels 4.0.3810 (1/23/09 build or 23/1/09 for non US readers).
Hardware--
Model Name: MacBook Pro
Model Identifier: MacBookPro3,1
Processor Name: Intel Core 2 Duo
Processor Speed: 2.2 GHz
Number Of Processors: 1
Total Number Of Cores: 2
L2 Cache: 4 MB
Memory: 2 GB
Bus Speed: 800 MHz
Boot ROM Version: MBP31.0070.B07
SMC Version: 1.16f8

Boot Camp Prep
Prepare that install by making sure it runs correctly. Why bring problems into your Parallels VM?

I've found Winclone to be great when a BootCamp partition got whacked and started causing corruption. Now I first back up BootCamp after a good install -- then after the following steps are done -- I create the VM based on the BootCamp partition.
--When you have problems, try using the BootCamp Asst to delete the partition and start over again. Make sure you have a cloned backup.
--I've had no issues using the built in Windows ntfs conversion for a smaller Fat32 partition when getting a larger drive. You'll need that if you go over the Fat32 partition size. Don't worry about checking the setup in the Disk Utility after having the BootCamp Asst make a large partition size, for it will say it's Fat32. Once you either install a new Windows operating system and partition it as ntfs or clone a ntfs backup, the ntfs partition will take hold.
--Nor have I had problems migrating to a new and larger hard drive on my laptop. All thanks to the free Winclone. It saved me a reinstall. For the MacOS partition, I used SuperDuper after removing the BootCamp partition.
--Make sure the BootCamp drivers are properly running and you are using v2.1. Reinstall the 2.1 BootCamp drivers if you are having problems. See if that helps. If you uninstall the BootCamp drivers you will need the 10.5 install DVD to first install the 2.0 version berfor the 2.1 update. Check the device manager to make sure everything is running with proper drivers.
--In BootCamp, run a drive utility to correct any file errors and then defrag.
--Use TweakUI (a MS Powertoy) to set the "login" to auto with the password set if windows opens to the login screen for a password. That prevents the Parallels auto install from freezing which makes you have to break into manual with the four finger salute of Ctrl-Option-Command-R. The install must have windows open to the desktop to correctly run based on my experience.
--Turn off all anti-virus programs that monitor script behavior. That will freeze the auto install too.
--If you have Parallels Tools installed, use the Windows "Add Remove Software" control panel app while running in BootCamp to uninstall it.
--Boot into MacOS and back the BootCamp partition up in Winclone to save all this work.

Now you are ready.

Parallels Install
--Open up Parallels and delete the VM if this is a reinstall. Use the delete files option.
--On the first start Parallels opens VM Setup Asst. At the "Operating System Detection" screen select "Skip Detection", make your OpSys selection on the next, and on the next screen select "Custom" so you choose the BootCamp partition.
--Run through all the remaining screens with your selected options.
--When the last screen asks if you want to run it, SAY NO for there are more options available elsewhere. (Figure almost every time you make configuration changes to the VM you will most likely have to uninstall Tools and then reinstall. So it's best not to allow Parallels to start up Windows at this point for it will install Tools automatically)
--Now you can click on the configuration button and have all the options available to set your VM up. Go through each setting on the left and make your choices. Click "OK".
--Now "Start" the VM.
--Note: If you have run out of activation 'points' with Windows, it will freeze the auto install. If you see the progress bar stop for 2-5 minutes, then use Ctrl-Option-Command-R to break into manual mode and you will probably see the MS "You have to activte" window. You might find you have no mouse or network capabilities for this has stopped the Parallels install at a early point. I've found the keyboard works on a laptop (don't know about towers with USB keyboards) and have been able to go through all the steps with a friendly call center rep from India via the telephone using the "Tab", arrows, and "Enter" keys. Try it. You'll see field and button changes if this method is successful.
--After the auto install completes and Windows starts up, the cpu will probably be burning hot. Shut down Windows and Parallels, and Restart the Mac.
--Go back and start your VM. Decide if you want the Kaspersky Anti-Virus installed.
--Let the VM sit for a while to allow all the prefetching to be done.
--Change your login options back in Tweak UI, and activate your Anti-Virus (script blocking program) if you had shut it down.

Works for me, and I've tried everything in the past to the point of having to call India for permission to run windows. No high cpu, a quick Windows start. I'm actually pretty happy with V4 aside from a few quirks.

One last tip. When tools is properly installed, you will always see a sprocket icon on the lower right of the window, even before you start the VM. If you get a warning on the bottom of the screen that Parallels Tools is not installed then you are not operating correctly. I've run for months not realizing that because after windows starts up the notice goes away and the Parallels Menu bar may only say 'Reinstall Tools' instead of 'Install'. I've gotten the high cpu issues with that one thinking Tools was fully installed when it really wasn't.

Now I don't expect this to work for everyone nor do I think this is the only way. That's the purpose of the thread if it takes hold. Solutions to try without the baggage of multiple pages of troubleshooting. Been there, read that...

Any other tips out there? For example, how's Acronis working out?
Click to expand...

Nice topic,Thanks
regards
Daily
 
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