Windows 7 SIM "unable to generate a catalog" error

Hi,

I have no previous experience at deploying operating systems, but I was tasked with learning the steps to deploy Windows 7 on machines that currently have Windows XP. I was able to use the "Step-byStep: Basic Windows Deployment for IT Professionals" to deploy a basic image. Now I'm trying to add applications to the image using the Microsoft recommended process from the "Create a Data Image" site: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd744513(WS.10).aspx<//a> .

I used imagex to create the data image as suggested: D:\imagex.exe /capture C:\Data\DataFiles C:\Data\MyData.wim "MyData"

When I try to use Windows SIM to create an answer file that contains the path to the data image to install, I am prompted to create a catalog file, and then I get the following error message before the catalog file is created:

Windows SIM was unable to generate a catalog. For troubleshooting assistance, see the topic: "Windows System Image Manager Technical Reference" in the Windows OPK or Windows AIK User's Guyide.

Details: The location does not contain a valid Windows image or contains files that cannot be opened with read/write privileges. If C:Data\MyData.wim is a shared location, verify you have read/write access to the location.

I'm running Windows SIM as an administrator, I'm logged on as the administrator, and I have the UAC controls turned off. I'm not sure if this is a permissions problem or not.

Any advice would be appreciated. I can provide the log file if needed. Does anyone know if Microsoft has created a Step-by-Step guide yet for adding apps to an image?

Thanks much!

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