Interesting Downloads for the Week Ending - 10-31-2008 - chris e. avis - writing about microsoft and technology.... - Site Home

This is a reliability update. This update resolves some performance and reliability issues in Windows Vista. By applying this update, you can achieve better performance and responsiveness in various scenarios. After you install this item, you may have to restart your computer. This update is provided to you and licensed under the Windows Vista License Terms.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=ce4f61d7-b659-4db5-95b8-9a86ca475ca4&DisplayLang=en

Update for Windows Vista for x64-based Systems (KB957200)

Brief Description

This is a reliability update. This update resolves some performance and reliability issues in Windows Vista.

Overview

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=86c8349c-e98f-4779-9d23-7d7a944f77ac&DisplayLang=en

Office Communications Server 2007 Document: Technical Overview

Brief Description

This document provides a technical overview of the architecture and new features of Office Communications Server 2007.

Overview

This document provides a technical overview of the architecture and new features of Office Communications Server 2007 and is divided into two main sections: "New Features" and "Architecture".
"New Features" discusses the new features of Office Communications Server 2007, including the following:

On-premise Web conferencing
Group IM
Audio and video
Enterprise Voice
Microsoft RoundTable™ communications and archival system
Enhanced presence
Federation enhancements
Client applications
Simplified deployment and management

"Architecture" discusses:

Enterprise Pool configurations
Front End Servers
Conferencing components
Perimeter network topology
Conference protocols
Call flows among conference components
VoIP components
VoIP configuration
VoIP call flow
Conference data storage
Perimeter network configuration
Protocols

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=4124630c-e041-4725-9a6e-0b4a6c292dde&DisplayLang=en

Update for Windows Vista (KB943790)

Brief Description

Overview

Overview

Install this update to resolve latency issues with certificates where the Subject Information Access (SIA) extension is installed on a computer that is running Windows Vista. After you install this item, you may have to restart your computer. This update is provided to you and licensed under the Windows Vista License Terms.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=365aa4e8-c8cf-485f-a81c-2e361f271a9b&DisplayLang=en

Update for Windows Vista for x64-based Systems (KB955805)

Brief Description

Install this update to resolve latency issues with certificates where the Subject Information Access (SIA) extension is installed on a computer that is running Windows Vista.

Overview

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=585ffadc-4fc3-4fe1-9dc0-cc10218b15a3&DisplayLang=en

Update for Windows Vista for x64-based Systems (KB943790)

Overview

Many organizations today are consolidating older file servers to reduce the cost of managing multiple file servers and to increase the efficiency of storage allocation and backup tasks. When organizations migrate data to file servers running Windows Server® 2003 and Windows Server 2008, they can take advantage of new features, such as Shadow Copies for Shared Folders and the Volume Shadow Copy service, and enhancements to other technologies, such as Distributed File System (DFS).

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=d00e3eae-930a-42b0-b595-66f462f5d87b&DisplayLang=en

Microsoft SQL Server Management Pack for Operations Manager 2007

Brief Description

The Microsoft SQL Server Management Pack for Operations Manager 2007 provides discovery and monitoring of SQL Server 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Overview

The SQL Server Management Pack provides the capabilities for Operations Manager 2007 to discover SQL Server 2000, 2005 and 2008 installations and components and to monitor them, primarily from the perspective of availability and performance. The availability and performance monitoring is done using a combination of scripts and native Operations Manager capabilities.
Note: Scripts in the SQL Server 2008 management pack rely on SQL Data Management Objects (SQL-DMO) to query information from the SQL Server. SQL-DMO is now deprecated and is not shipped as a part of SQL Server 2008. Every system with SQL Server 2008 that will be monitored must have SQL-DMO installed from the Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Backward Compatibility Components. For instructions on how to download and install the SQL Server 2005 Backward Compatibility Components refer to the management pack guide.
Feature Bullet Summary:
The following list gives an overview of the features of the SQL Server management pack. Refer to the SQL Server management pack guide for more detail.

Support for Enterprise, Standard and Express editions of SQL Server 2000, 2005 and 2008 and 32bit, 64bit and ia64 architectures.
Support for both simple and complex SQL configurations such as clustered installations, multiple instances and 32bit roles running on a 64bit OS. For full details on supported configurations refer to the guide included with the management pack.
Discovery and monitoring of SQL Server roles such as DB Engine, Reporting Services, Analysis Services, Integrations Services.
Discovery of SQL components such as databases, the SQL Agent and SQL jobs.
Over 20 views covering areas such as database free space, SQL related performance, SQL related alerts, and lists of the various SQL roles and components which are discovered and their related state.
Reports for longer-term analysis of common problem areas related to SQL Server such as SQL Server lock analysis and top deadlocked databases, SQL Server service pack levels across discovered roles, user connection activity. Likewise the generic reports from the Microsoft Generic Report Library can be used against the roles and components discovered by the SQL MPs to review availability and performance across many systems and over longer periods of time.
Role and component specific tasks which provide access to common tools, triage information, or corrective actions without needing to leave the Operations Console in most cases.
Monitoring of databases covers database status, database free space, log shipping monitoring for both the source and destination, and transaction log free space.
Monitoring of key SQL related services.
Monitoring for persistent SPID blocking.
Monitoring of numerous SQL events and performance data points. Alerts bring the issue to your attention and provide knowledge on the impact and possible resolutions.

Release History:

3/23/2007 - Initial Release, version 6.0.5000.0
12/21/2007 - updated version 6.0.6247.5
3/31/2008 - Updated version 6.0.6278.8
10/29/2008 - Released version 6.0.6441.0, which introduced SQL Server 2008 support in addition to other new features and fixes. Refer to the MP guide for a complete list of changes.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=8c0f970e-c653-4c15-9e51-6a6cadfca363&DisplayLang=en

Demo Showcase 2008 Core IO Demos

Brief Description

Demonstrate Core IO capabilities with these robust and easy to use click through demos.
Demo Showcase 2008 Core IO Demos

Overview

The Demo Showcase 2008 Core IO Demos are a set of 6 comprehensive click through demonstrations designed for partners to use with customers. These customer scenario demos feature many different Microsoft technologies working together to showcase the power of the Core IO capabilities. Included in the scenarios are the following products: Windows Server 2008 (NAP, TS Web, Terminal Services, ADFS), Communicator, Office Enterprise 2007, Windows Vista, System Center Essentials 2007 and more.
These six demos help you learn and show customers about the power of Desktop, Device and Server Management, Collaboration and Identity Management.
With the Demo Showcase 2008 Core IO demos you can show customers how a collection of integrated technology solutions can be used to solve their business needs.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=2d8bbf4e-4cf0-4008-9a33-214bae06d6c5&DisplayLang=en

Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 2 Administration Tools Pack for x86 editions

Brief Description

Overview

The Administration Tools Pack allows administrators to install the Windows Server 2003 SP2 management tools onto a computer running Windows XP Professional or a Windows Server 2003 family operating system to perform remote server management functions. This is the final version of the Administration Tools Pack; you must uninstall all previous versions before installing this version.
Please read Knowledge Base article 304718 for more information on the release process for this file and description of all known issues.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=86b71a4f-4122-44af-be79-3f101e533d95&DisplayLang=en

Windows HPC Server 2008 Management Pack for System Center Operations Manager 2007

Brief Description

The Windows HPC Server 2008 Management Pack provides both proactive and reactive monitoring of Windows HPC Server 2008 for a cluster environment.

Overview

The Windows HPC Server 2008 Management Pack provides both proactive and reactive monitoring of Windows HPC Server 2008 for a cluster environment. It monitors Windows HPC Server components – such as head node, compute node, Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) broker node, network, and Job Scheduler – to report issues that can cause downtime or poor performance for the cluster that is running Windows HPC Server 2008.
Feature Summary
The Windows HPC Server 2008 Management Pack for Operations Manager 2007 includes a number of key monitoring scenarios that are enabled with monitors, rules, alerts and tasks to help manage an HPC cluster, which include:

Head Node Monitoring
Network Monitoring
Job Scheduler Monitoring
Compute Node Monitoring
Broker Node Monitoring

Release History

10/29/2008 - Original release of the English version, version 2.0.1551.0

The DPMRA service on the DPM Server occasionally crashes, marking replicas as inconsistent (in this case the system event log may contain entries stating that the DPMRA service terminated unexpectedly)
Missing calculate link option in the Data Size column when creating a protection group and selecting a volume to protect (when directories are deselected under that volume)
When configuring secondary protection for an item on a secondary DPM server, some cases an error comes up when stating “This item is not protectable because some prerequisite software is missing. Ensure that all prerequisite software is installed and then protect this item”, even if the item is already successfully protected on the primary DPM Server.
Inability to protect data local to the DPM server

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=f80129c7-1754-4ea0-9cf3-425f87b9ebd1&DisplayLang=en

SCAP Conversion Tool for Desired Configuration Manager

Brief Description

Convert SCAP Content to DCM Configuration Packs
The SCAP Conversion Tool for DCM converts Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP) files into DCM Configuration Packs and indicates gaps in a log file that can result from the conversion process. Use the Configuration Packs in combination with the desired configuration management (DCM) feature in Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007 to monitor compliance with the SCAP baseline.

Overview

The SCAP Conversion Tool for DCM can convert SCAP stream files into DCM Configuration Packs for use with Configuration Manager 2007. This release includes a user guide that provides instructions for using this command-line tool, and detailed information about the mapping between the SCAP protocol and the DCM format.
The SCAP Conversion Tool for DCM includes the following components:

SCAPConversionToolforDCM.msi: This Microsoft Windows Installer (.msi) file includes the SCAP2DCM.exe command-line tool that you can use to convert SCAP stream files to DCM Configuration Packs.
SCAP Conversion Tool for DCM User Guide.docx: This user guide provides instructions and commands for the tool, as well as an appendix of mapping information that includes detailed lists of how SCAP content maps to DCM content, and what settings are dropped in the conversion.
SCAP Conversion Tool for DCM FAQ.docx: This document contains frequently asked questions and answers about the SCAP Conversion Tool for DCM.

To view the SCAP Conversion Tool for DCM User Guide online at TechNet click here.
Note: Version 1.1 of this tool was released October 31, 2008. Version 1.1 supports XCCDF version 1.1.4 and OVAL version 5.4. Please refer to the Release Notes.rtf file for additional information.
Please direct questions and comments about the SCAP Conversion Tool for DCM to secwish@microsoft.com.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=22e5b9a0-fa7b-4d43-bcea-7084ae6f40f5&DisplayLang=en

Windows Essential Business Server 2008

Brief Description

Public Preview Software – Release Candidate 1
Windows Essential Business Sever 2008 is an integrated and affordable solution that offers the Microsoft software midsize businesses require - preconfigured, integrated and manageable from a single administrative console, and at a significant discount compared to standalone products.

Overview

Designed and priced for midsize businesses, Windows Essential Business Server 2008 simplifies your daily activities with a Centralized Administration Console that gives you a single point of access to your IT environment. Windows Essential Business Server 2008 also provides an integrated and predictable platform, allowing you to view, deploy, manage, and administer third-party applications from one starting point.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=df8666bb-24a4-471b-9d6b-29d21bd0fc1a&DisplayLang=en

Windows Small Business Server 2008

Brief Description

Public Preview Software – Release Candidate 1
Designed for small businesses, Windows Small Business Server 2008 is an affordable, integrated server solution that helps you protect your business data, increase productivity and present a more professional image to customers – giving you the tools you need to help grow your business capacity.

Overview

Windows Small Business Server 2008 (Windows SBS 2008) is an integrated server solution that helps you protect your business data, increase productivity and present a more professional image to customers. By providing many of the features used by larger companies --e-mail, an Internet connectivity, internal Web sites, remote access, support for mobile devices, file and printer sharing, backup, and restore--Windows SBS 2008 gives you the tools you need to help grow your business.
Windows SBS 2008 is available in two editions: Standard and Premium.
Standard Edition includes the software to install the primary Small Business Server. To install Standard Edition, you will need to download:

SBS__RC1_DVD1_Installation.iso - Small Business Server Installation

Premium Edition includes software to install an additional Windows Server (either x86 or x64) for your domain, with the option of running SQL Server. To install Premium Edition, you will need to download:

SBS_RC1_DVD1_Installation.iso - Small Business Server Installation
SBS_RC1_DVD2_AddServerInstallationx86.iso - Additional Server Installation x86
SBS_RC1_DVD3_AddServerInstallationx64.iso - Additional Server Installation x64
SBS_RC1_SQL2008.iso - SQL Server 2008 for Small Business RC1

More information about Windows SBS 2008 editions is available here.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=5c4e9dea-ab34-40f6-8c73-bd94051331b4&DisplayLang=en

Solutions & Solution Development

Geneva Whitepapers and Datasheet

Brief Description

Geneva Overview Documentation

Overview

"Geneva" Claims Based Access Platform
"Geneva" helps simplify access to applications and other systems with an open and interoperable claims-based model.
For developers: "Geneva" helps simplify user access for developers by externalizing access logic from applications via claims, and reducing development effort with pre-built security logic and integrated .NET tools.
For IT professionals: "Geneva" helps IT efficiently deploy and manage new applications by reducing custom implementation work, consolidating access management in the hands of IT, helping establish a consistent security model, and facilitating seamless collaboration between organizations with automated federation tools.
For information workers and consumers: Users can benefit from help navigating logins, managing different personas, and controlling how personal information is shared.

"Geneva" includes built-in interoperability via open industry standards and claims, and implements the industry Identity Metasystem vision for open and interoperable identity.
"Geneva" includes three components for enabling claims-based access. Beta 1 of the following components are now available for public evaluation:
"Geneva" Framework for building .NET applications that use claims to make user access decisions
"Geneva" Server security token service (STS) for issuing and transforming claims, enabling federations, and managing user access
Windows CardSpace "Geneva" for helping users navigate access decisions and for developers to build customer authentication experiences for users

Available Here for Download
"Geneva" Datasheet
Whitepaper: "Geneva" Claims Based Access Platform
Learn about Microsoft's new "Geneva" claims based access platform. Read about the three main components of "Geneva" and how they work together to help solve application access problems with a single simplified access model. Understand how claims can be used across a wide variety of scenarios including enterprise, federation and Web. In this paper new concepts and terminology are introduced to help architects, developers and IT professionals understand the benefits and concepts behind the claims-based model of identity. A background in developing, deploying or managing web applications and services that entail user authentication is expected. By David Chappell
Whitepaper: "Geneva" Framework
Get started building claims-aware applications using Microsoft code-named "Geneva" Framework. In this paper concepts and terminology are introduced to help developers understand the benefits and concepts behind the claims-based model of identity. Security expertise is not required but familiarity with ASP.NET or WCF programming is. A background in building web applications or services that care about authentication and authorization is expected. As such, the focus of the paper is on building relying parties using the framework. By Keith Brown

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=9ca5c685-3172-4d8f-81cb-1a59bdc9f7e3&DisplayLang=en

Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Reporting Services Add-in for Microsoft SharePoint Technologies

Brief Description

The Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Reporting Services Add-in for Microsoft SharePoint Technologies is a Web download that provides features for running a report server within a larger deployment of Windows SharePoint Services 3.0 or Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007.

Overview

Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Reporting Services Add-in for SharePoint Technologies (Reporting Services Add-in) allows you to take advantage of SQL Server 2005 Service Pack 2 (SP2) report processing and management capabilities within Windows SharePoint Services 3.0 or Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007. The download provides the following functionality:

A Report Viewer Web Part that provides report viewing capability, export to other rendering formats, page navigation, search, print, and zoom.
Web application pages so that you can create subscriptions and schedules, and manage reports, models, and data sources.
Support for using standard Windows SharePoint Services features including document management, collaboration, security, and deployment with report server content types.

The Reporting Services Add-in works together with SP2, which is required on the report server. SP2 provides the following functionality for a report server that is configured for SharePoint integrated mode:

Synchronization from SharePoint content database to the report server database.
A custom security extension that uses SharePoint permissions to control access to report server operations.
A new delivery extension that you can use in subscriptions to deliver reports to SharePoint libraries.
A revised Reporting Services Configuration tool that you can use to configure a report server for SharePoint integrated operations.
A new SOAP endpoint for managing report server content in SharePoint integrated mode.

This CTP is an update to July 2008 CTP Release. In this CTP, we have made Windows Live Tools compatible with Windows Azure and upgraded to Silverlight 2.0. This package includes following:
ASP.NET Server Controls
• Contacts
• IDLoginStatus
• IDLoginView
• Map
• MessengerChat
• SilverlightStreamingMediaPlayer
Visual Studio Project Template
• ASP.NET Windows Live Web Site
• Windows Live Web Application
• Windows Live Web Role (template for Windows Azure Cloud Project)

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=f438b207-96af-497c-94db-152d48344af5&DisplayLang=en

Microsoft Visual Studio Tools for the Microsoft Office system (version 3.0 Runtime) (x86)

Brief Description

Overview

This download (VSTOR30.exe) installs the Visual Studio Tools for the Office system 3.0 Runtime, which is required to run VSTO solutions for the 2007 Microsoft Office system built using Microsoft Visual Studio 2008.
When installing the VSTO runtime on a non-English version of the operating system, you should also install the appropriate language pack to see the text of the messages from the VSTO runtime in that language, rather than English.
Note: VSTO solutions built for use in Microsoft Office 2003 require the Visual Studio 2005 Tools for Office Second Edition Runtime, not this one.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=54eb3a5a-0e52-40f9-a2d1-eecd7a092dcb&DisplayLang=en

Unity Application Block 1.2 - October 2008

Brief Description

The Unity Application Block (Unity) is a lightweight, extensible dependency injection container with optional support for instance and type interception.

Overview

The Unity Application Block (Unity) is a lightweight, extensible dependency injection container with optional support for instance and type interception. It facilitates building loosely coupled applications and provides developers with the following advantages:

Simplified object creation, especially for hierarchical object structures and dependencies.
Abstraction of requirements; this allows developers to specify dependencies at run time or in configuration and simplify management of crosscutting concerns.
Increased flexibility by deferring component configuration to the container.
Service location capability; this allows clients to store or cache the container.
Instance and type interception.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=2c8b79e7-ae56-4f90-822e-a1e43c49d12e&DisplayLang=en

Unity Application Block 1.2 Documentation for Visual Studio 2008

Brief Description

The integrated documentation for the Unity Application Block (Unity) to be used with Visual Studio 2008.

Overview

The integrated documentation for the Unity Application Block (Unity) to be used with Visual Studio 2008.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=9612b06e-14c1-4226-a092-2472dcc81b51&DisplayLang=en

Enterprise Library 4.1-October 2008

Brief Description

Microsoft Enterprise Library is a collection of reusable application blocks designed to assist software developers with common enterprise development challenges. This release includes: Caching, Cryptography, Data Access, Exception Handling, Logging, Policy Injection, Security, Validation, and Unity.

Overview

The Microsoft Enterprise Library is a collection of reusable application blocks designed to assist software developers with common enterprise development challenges. This following application blocks are included: Caching Application Block, Cryptography Application Block, Data Access Application Block, Exception Handling Application Block, Logging Application Block, Policy Injection Application Block, Security Application Block, Validation Application Block, and Unity Application Block.
This release includes:

Support for Visual Studio 2008 and Visual Studio 2008 SP1.
Interception mechanism in the Unity Application Block.
Performance improvements.
Usability improvements of the config tool.
Fixes.

Enterprise
Enterprise Evaluation
Developer
Standard
Workgroup

For a summary list of What's new in SQL Server 2005 SP3 CTP, review the What's New document.
These packages have been made available for general testing purposes only. Do not deploy the CTP software in production. Peer-to-peer support is available in the SQL Server 2005 forums.
Note: To obtain SQL Server 2005 SP3 CTP for Express Edition or Express Edition with Advanced Services, Go Here.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=d22317e1-bc64-4936-a14b-7a632b50a4ca&DisplayLang=en

Microsoft Sync Framework v2.0 CTP1

Brief Description

Microsoft Sync Framework is a comprehensive synchronization platform that enables collaboration and offline scenarios for applications, services, and devices. Using Microsoft Sync Framework, developers can build applications that synchronize data from any source using any protocol over any network.

Overview

Sync Framework Overview
Microsoft Sync Framework provides a synchronization platform that caters to the following scenarios, in which data needs to be synchronized between multiple data sources:

A number of users are collaborating and need to be able to access and update a set of data.
A user wants to access and update his or her data in multiple locations – on a desktop, on a device, using a Web browser, etc.
A user wants to download data from a server or service and take that data offline to a client store. The data can then be accessed and updated by the user even when not connected to the server or service.

Microsoft Sync Framework makes no assumptions about how data is stored or transmitted. Sync Framework places no restrictions on the type of data sources that can be synchronized, the protocol and network that are used to communicate with each data source , or the type of synchronization topology that is used. A data source can be synchronized with any other data source in any order; full peer-to-peer synchronization topologies are supported.
In order to cater to any data source, Sync Framework uses a provider model, with each sync provider being responsible for synchronizing a particular type of data source (or replica). Sync Framework is used to author providers and is used to perform the actual synchronization between the providers.
As well as enabling providers to be authored, Sync Framework includes several built-in providers:

Sync Services for ADO.NET, which is used to synchronize databases for offline and collaborative scenarios.
Sync Services for File Systems, which is used to synchronize files and folders in an NTFS or FAT file system.
Sync Services for FeedSync, which is used to synchronize RSS and Atom feeds with data in a local store.

Sync Framework 2.0
Sync Framework 2.0 expands on the capabilities offered by Sync Framework 1.0:

Adds features that cater to new scenarios or scenarios that were difficult to support.
Reduces the amount of work required to develop providers.
Supports more data sources with new built-in providers.

The major new features included in this initial CTP are:

Simple Providers: Reduces the amount of work required to develop providers, especially when the data source has very few synchronization-related capabilities, such as change-tracking. The goal is to enable a developer to write a provider without having to become a synchronization expert. The majority of the code that is required for a simple provider is limited to that responsible for interacting with the data source.
Change Unit Filtering: Different data sources can have different representations of the same data types, with some data sources offering a richer and more complete representation than others. This is especially true when you compare data type representations on a PC and on a device; the device will often support only a subset of the data supported by the PC. Sync Framework caters to scenarios in which a mixture of data sources is being synchronized, each with a different representation of the data type. Filtering support has been added to enable a provider to specify that the replica it serves is only able to store a subset of the data. The synchronization metadata and synchronization process have both been enhanced to handle this filtering efficiently.
Filter negotiation: When a destination data source is only storing a subset of data, then it is more efficient if the source provider uses a filter to enumerate only the data that can be stored by the destination. Filter negotiation allows a destination provider to specify it would like one or more filters to be used by the source provider; the source provider can accept or reject a filter. If a source provider does not support the requested filters then the destination provider can choose to receive all the data and do the filtering itself. Sync Framework is responsible for calling the providers appropriately to negotiate filter usage.

Known Issues
The following issues and limitations are known to exist in CTP1 and will be addressed in future releases.
Installation:

This CTP release cannot be installed on a computer that has an earlier version of Sync Framework installed. This means that it is not possible to upgrade from a previous version of Sync Framework, or to have the new CTP operate side-by-side with a previous version.
Interoperability between Sync Framework 1.0 and 2.0 components is not yet supported.
The install folder name is still named v1.0.
Only an English version of this CTP is available.

Simple Providers

Synchronizing a managed simple provider with a native simple provider using the managed synchronization orchestrator (SyncOrchestrator) is not supported.
In managed code only the metadata store provided with Sync Framework Metadata Storage Services can be used (SqlMetadataStore); a custom metadata store is not yet supported. In native code, any store that implements ISyncMetadataStore can be used.
When using a simple provider, an item change might take two synchronization sessions to be applied if there is a temporary constraint conflict during change application for that item. A temporary constraint conflict occurs when multiple changes are being applied for an item and an earlier change cannot be applied due to a constraint error, but can be applied after other changes have been made. For example, a new item “A” is being created and the existing item “A” is being renamed – the new item “A” can’t be created until the existing item “A” is renamed.

Download Contents
The download ZIP file contains the following components:

SyncSetup.exe: Run this executable to install all Sync Framework components
Synchronization.msi: Core runtime components of Sync Framework
ProviderServices.msi: Simple providers, Metadata Storage Services, and Sync Services for File Systems
SyncServicesADO.msi: Sync Services for ADO.NET. Note: even though the version number for Sync Services for ADO.NET has been updated to 3.0, there are no changes for this component in this CTP.
SyncSDK.msi: Headers, libraries, symbols, and samples.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=109db36e-cdd0-4514-9fb5-b77d9cea37f6&DisplayLang=en

Microsoft® Visual Studio Team System 2008 Database Edition GDR Release Candidate 1

Brief Description

Microsoft® Visual Studio Team System 2008 Database Edition GDR Release Candidate 1
Microsoft® Visual Studio Team System 2008 Database Edition GDR implements support for SQL Server 2008.

Overview

In addition to providing support for SQL Server 2008 database projects, this release incorporates many previously released Power Tools as well as several new features. The new features include distinct Build and Deploy phases, Static Code Analysis and improved integration with SQL CLR projects.
Database Edition no longer requires a Design Database. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to install an instance of SQL Express or SQL Server prior to using Database Edition.
SQL Server Support

SQL Server 2008

All new data types:

Intrinsic (date, datetime2, datetimeoffset, time)
Built-in SQL CLR types (geography, geometry, hierarchyid)

New DML

Merge, table parameters, …

SQL Server Configuration Options

Server option settings will be verified prior to deployment or set during deployment
Additional 1st Class Object Type Support
Rules, defaults, Asymmetric keys, symmetric keys, certificates, …

Projects

Server Projects

Server objects and option settings may be implemented in a separate Server Project
This enables a team to define a standard a configuration for their SQL servers and reference it from their Database Projects

Partial projects

Allowing code sharing between projects by including files from a different project, where the code is included as-is from the originating project and the source code control ownership remains with the originating project
This enables code reuse and single sourcing while having a single deployment unit

Composite projects

References to other database projects or .dbschema files that contribute to the same deployment unit.
This enables the separation of development roles and responsibilities and composition of Databases using multiple projects.

Single sourcing of external artifacts

SQL-CLR references allow the user to create a reference to a SQL-CLR project or SQL-CLR assembly. This automatically becomes an ASSEMBLY type in the Database Project

Build and Deploy

The Build process now produces a separate portable schema output that is fed in to a redistributable deployment engine
A redistributable deployment engine. For example, to implement a setup application that deploys the Database Project.

Refactoring

Preservation of Intent

Enables the deployment of refactoring changes as intended by the user (renames are deployed as renames not as drop/add statements for example)

New Refactoring Operations

Wildcard Expansion
Move Schema
Fully Qualify
Extensibility point which enables the ability to develop and deploy custom refactoring types and targets

Schema Compare

Now supports comparing Projects, Databases or dbschema files in any combination. For example, Project to Project, which has not been possible until now.
Object Type Filtering
Additional ignore filtering options

T-SQL Static Code Analysis

Including the ability to develop and deploy custom rules

Dependency Viewer

View the dependency relationship between objects in your schema

Unit testing

Supports execution with other ADO.NET providers

Data Generation

Design-time enhancements

Smaller .dgen file
Support for undo/redo
Foreign key replacement
Separation of population status into new display window

Runtime enhancements

By default uses SqlBulkCopy to populate target tables
Capability to register different outputs for generated data – i.e. generate to Excel or to file so you can use BCP to load
By registering a custom output we have the capability to execute scripts at different points during data generation (i.e. before start/after completion or before/after a table

Extensibility

Data Generators
Statistical Data Distribution
Test Conditions
Static Code Analysis Rules
Refactoring Types
Refactoring Target

Absence Request and Vacation Schedule Management
Help Desk
Budgeting and Tracking Multiple Projects
Inventory Tracking
Bug Database
IT Team Workspace
Call Center
Job Requisition and Interview Management
Change Request Management
Knowledge Base
Compliance Process Support Site
Lending Library
Contacts Management
Physical Asset Tracking and Management
Document Library and Review
Project Tracking Workspace
Event Planning
Room and Equipment Reservations
Expense Reimbursement and Approval Site
Sales Lead Pipeline

Site Admin Templates:
Site admin templates are easy for site administrators to install in a template gallery without requiring server administration access.

Board of Directors
Employee Training Scheduling and Materials
Business Performance Rating
Equity Research
Case Management for Government Agencies
Integrated Marketing Campaign Tracking
Classroom Management
Manufacturing Process Management
Clinical Trial Initiation and Management
New Store Opening
Competitive Analysis Site
Product and Marketing Requirements Planning
Discussion Database
Request for Proposal
Disputed Invoice Management
Sports League
Employee Activities Site
Team Work Site
Employee Self-Service Benefits
Timecard Management

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=5807b5ef-57a1-47cb-8666-78c1363f127d&DisplayLang=en

Windows SharePoint Services 3.0 Application Templates: All Server Admin Templates

Brief Description

This download package includes all twenty server admin Application Templates for Microsoft Windows SharePoint Services 3.0 and the Application Template Core solution.

Overview

This download package includes all twenty server admin Application Templates for Windows SharePoint Services 3.0 and the Application Template Core solution.
The templates included in this package are:

Absence Request and Vacation Schedule Management
Budgeting and Tracking Multiple Projects
Bug Database
Call Center
Change Request Management
Compliance Process Support Site
Contacts Management
Document Library and Review
Event Planning
Expense Reimbursement and Approval Site
Help Desk
Inventory Tracking
IT Team Workspace
Job Requisition and Interview Management
Knowledge Base
Lending Library
Physical Asset Tracking and Management
Project Tracking Workspace
Room and Equipment Reservations
Sales Lead Pipeline

These server admin templates are configurable in eleven languages (English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese Simplified, Chinese Traditional, Korean, and Hebrew) and are created as site definitions, providing tighter integration and enhanced functionality within the Windows SharePoint Services platform. They will require a server administrator to install.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=aae4cb5a-91d2-4f1b-9a45-3bb894e218f8&DisplayLang=en

Windows SharePoint Services 3.0 Application Template: Application Template Core

Brief Description

The Application Template Core solution file for Microsoft Windows SharePoint Services 3.0 contains all of the resources for each of the server admin templates. This solution must be installed and deployed prior to any other server admin Application Template installation.

Overview

The Application Template Core solution file contains all of the resources for each of the server admin templates. This solution must be installed and deployed prior to any other server admin Application Template installation.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=c1039e13-94da-4d7d-8cae-3b96fa5a4045&DisplayLang=en

Microsoft® Expression® Encoder 2 Service Pack 1

Brief Description

With Expression Encoder 2 Service Pack 1 (SP1), you can quickly and easily produce Silverlight 2 experiences, encode H.264/AAC video, and publish to IIS and to other servers that support the WebDAV protocol.

Overview

With Expression Encoder 2 SP1, you can quickly and easily create Silverlight 2 experiences using templates that include rich functionality such as DVD-style chapter navigation, subtitles, and metadata; encode H.264/AAC video; and publish to Internet Information Services (IIS) and other servers that support the WebDAV protocol for use with IIS Smooth Streaming.
Installation instructions

Install Expression Encoder 2 Trial if you don't already have Expression Encoder 2 installed.
Install Expression Encoder 2 Service Pack 1.

GUI application
Specify dependencies between primary and secondary packages
Support mandatory and non-mandatory packages

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=daa898df-455f-438a-aa2a-421f05894098&DisplayLang=en

Application Virtualization SFT Parser Tool

Brief Description

Use the Application Virtualization SFTInfo utility to extract information from SFT files.

Overview

You can use the Application Virtualization SFT Info utility to extract the following information from SFT files:

Validation of SFT files—Process corrupted SFT files, and recover information from corrupted SFT files.
XML export of contents of SFT—Export the contents of an existing SFT file. You can evaluate SFT segments or SFT metadata and construct a textual tree view of all file information SFT file.
Listing of all of the files in the SFT—Identify and print the files contained in the SFT with their full paths. This is a good method to quickly identify the contents of a package.
Statistics about properties of the SFT metadata—Identify statistical information, such the largest file contained in a package. This can be very useful for identifying packages that are too large in size and are causing issues loading on the client.
Get relevant information on a file in the package—Display size, timestamps, attributes, and version information associated with the package.
Ability to skip processing of file data if using functionality that requires only the metadata—Allows working with very large packages quickly.

This application is not supported through the official Microsoft Support channels. Please use the Microsoft Application Virtualization TechNet forums to provide feedback or report any problems.
Feature Bullet Summary:

Listing of all files in the SFT
Text-based or XML-based output
File full-path, version, size, timestamp, and attributes are displayed

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=e5a7db27-304b-4cd1-9c80-7ba5fdaea97f&DisplayLang=en

Application Virtualization Client Log Parser Utility

Brief Description

Use the Application Virtualization Log Parser utility to extract log entries from one or more application virtualization client logs.

Overview

You can use the fields and values contained in the output file to filter information obtained from the log files. The output file generated by the application log parser utility contains the following fields: System, OS, Build, Date, Time, Module, Log Level, hApp, App, User, Thread, and Message. The information contained in the output file can also be imported into Microsoft Excel for subsequent evaluation. This log parser simplifies the task of looking through log files, being able to filter by log level, build report, launch failures, mini-dumps, minimum disconnected operation mode entries and more. Afterwards, the appropriate party can import the data for analysis and/or utilization.
This application is not supported through the official Microsoft Support channels. Please use the Microsoft Application Virtualization TechNet forums to provide feedback or report any problems,
Feature Bullet Summary:

Filter client logs on log level, types of failure, upload time, launch times, etc

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=72876c60-3a87-4705-b722-f73eb56219bf&DisplayLang=en

Application Virtualization Cache Configuration Tool

Brief Description

You can use the Microsoft Application Virtualization (App-V) cache configuration utility to configure settings associated with App-V client cache.

Overview

The App-V client cache tool (AppVCacheSize) allows administrators to increase the Microsoft Application Virtualization client cache size through a scriptable command line interface. AppVCacheSize uses the specified parameters to configure the desired cache size, as well as toggle between using a free disk space threshold or set a maximum cache size.
This application is not supported through the official Microsoft Support channels. Please use the Microsoft Application Virtualization TechNet forums to provide feedback or report any problems,
Feature Bullet Summary:

Increase the size of the client cache without deleting the contents
Configure the application recycling policy of the client cache

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=5e7089fa-c6ab-4150-8562-3b5bc14cd881&DisplayLang=en

Application Virtualization Application Listing Tool

Brief Description

You can use this tool to display a list of virtualized applications that are currently running.

Overview

The App-V Application Listing Tool (ListVApps) is a tool which lists all the virtual processes that are running at a specific time on a specific computer. You can use the tool to get information about the priority and owner of each process, the size of its virtual memory, its session identifier and processing time.
User with administrator privileges will see all running virtual applications.
This application is not supported through the official Microsoft Support channels. Please use the Microsoft Application Virtualization TechNet forums to provide feedback or report any problems.
Feature Bullet Summary:

Display list of applications currently running virtualized

Silverlight 2 developer runtime
Silverlight 2 software development kit
KB956453 for Visual Studio 2008 SP1
and/or
KB956485 for Visual Web Developer 2008 Express with SP1
Silverlight Tools for Visual Studio 2008 SP1
and/or
Silverlight Tools for Visual Web Developer 2008 Express with SP1

Silverlight Tools for Visual Studio 2008 SP1 includes:

Visual Basic and C# Project templates
Intellisense and code generators for XAML
XAML design preview
Debugging of Silverlight applications
Remote debugging of Silverlight applications for Mac
Web reference support
WCF Templates
Team Build and command line build support
Integration with Expression Blend

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=c22d6a7b-546f-4407-8ef6-d60c8ee221ed&DisplayLang=en

Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 Implementation Guide

Brief Description

This guide contains comprehensive information about how to plan, install, and maintain Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0.

Overview

The Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 Implementation Guide consists of the following documents:

Planning Guide: This guide gives you the information and tools that help you get your organization ready for Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0. It includes two main aspects of planning for a customer relationship management (CRM) system:

Technical: These topics focus on such areas as the supported topologies, system requirements, and technical considerations to address before you install.
Implementation methodology: These topics cover the business management, CRM requirements, and project management aspects that are needed when you deploy a CRM system. Additionally, there are several documents included that you can use as tools to plan the implementation of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0. These tools are in the planningtools folder where the Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 Implementation Guide is located.

Planning Tools: The planning tools are 43 template, project, and worksheet Microsoft Office documents that can be used to help plan your implementation.
Installing Guide: This guide provides the information that you need to install Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0, such as step-by-step instructions for running Setup, command-line installation instructions for silent installations, and guidance about how to remove Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0.
Operating and Maintaining Guide: This guide gives you information about how to back up, restore, and provide data recovery for Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0. Additionally, this guide provides troubleshooting steps for known issues.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=1ceb5e01-de9f-48c0-8ce2-51633ebf4714&DisplayLang=en

Microsoft Pre-release Software Visual Studio 2010 and .NET Framework 4.0 Community Technology Preview (CTP)

Brief Description

Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 and the .NET Framework 4.0 are the next generation development tools and platform for Windows Vista, the 2007 Office System, and the Web.

Overview

Visual Studio 2010 and the .NET Framework 4.0 mark the next generation of developer tools from Microsoft. Designed to address the latest needs of developers, Visual Studio delivers key innovations in the following pillars:
Democratizing Application Lifecycle Management
Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) crosses many roles within an organization and traditionally not every one of the roles has been an equal player in the process. Visual Studio Team System 2010 continues to build the platform for functional equality and shared commitment across an organization’s ALM process.
Enabling emerging trends
Every year the industry develops new technologies and new trends. With Visual Studio 2010 and .NET Framework 4.0, Microsoft delivers tooling and framework support for the latest innovations in application architecture, development and deployment.
Inspiring developer delight
Ever since the first release of Visual Studio, Microsoft has set the bar for developer productivity and flexibility. Visual Studio 2010 continues to deliver on the core developer experience by significantly improving upon it for roles involved with the software development process. .NET Framework 4.0 contains numerous improvements that make it easier to develop powerful and compelling applications.
Riding the next generation platform wave
Microsoft continues to invest in the market leading operating system, productivity application and server platforms to deliver increased customer value in these offerings. With Visual Studio 2010 and .NET Framework 4.0 customers will have the tooling support and the platform support needed to create amazing solutions around these technologies.
For more information on Visual Studio 2010 and the .NET Framework 4.0 visit http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/vs2008/products/cc948977.aspx
This CTP release is available in English only as a Virtual PC image. To download Virtual PC 2007 please visit http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=28C97D22-6EB8-4A09-A7F7-F6C7A1F000B5&displaylang=en
The CTP is designed to enable users to experience Visual Studio 2010 and the .NET Framework 4.0, and to provide feature design feedback on a limited set of features. These features are exposed through a set of walkthroughs that are included in the VPC itself. Many common development scenarios may not work in this CTP as it is designed to support the above walkthroughs.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=922b4655-93d0-4476-bda4-94cf5f8d4814&DisplayLang=en

Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Reporting Services Report Builder 2.0

Brief Description

Report Builder 2.0
Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Report Builder 2.0 provides an intuitive report authoring environment for business and power users. It supports the full capabilities of SQL Server 2008 Reporting Services. The download provides a stand-alone installer for Report Builder 2.0

Overview

Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Reporting Services Report Builder 2.0 delivers an intuitive, Office-like report authoring environment enabling business and power users to leverage their experience with Microsoft Office 2007 products. Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Reporting Services Report Builder 2.0 supports the full capabilities of SQL Server 2008 Reporting Services including:

Flexible report layout caabilities of SQL Server 2008 Report Definition Language

Data Visualizations including charts and gauges

Richly formatted textboxes

Export to Microsoft Office Word format

Features specific to Report Builder 2.0 are focused on simplifying the process of creating and editing reports and queries and include the following:

Easy to use wizards for creating table, matrix and chart data regions

Support for directly opening and editing reports stored on the report server

Support for using server resources such as shared data sources

Query designers for multiple data sources including a Microsoft SQL Server-specific query designer

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=9f783224-9871-4eea-b1d5-f3140a253db6&DisplayLang=en

Windows CE101 Training Course Materials

Brief Description

This online training is intended for two different developer communities (Embedded and Windows) who would like to start developing Embedded Windows CE devices.

Overview

This online training is intended for two different developer communities who would like to start developing Embedded Windows CE devices. These developers are:
1. Embedded Developers starting out in Embedded Windows CE
2. Windows Developers wanting to start in the embedded world of Embedded Windows CE.
There are nine module for the training. This includes the first module which provides a flowchart of how to navigate the training and what each module covers. There are 2 module 1s, 1e and 1w. Depending on what type of Developer you are, determines which Module 1 you start with. Module 2 -9 is intended for all developers. There are also Lab and Demo materials for download.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=b91fa334-96f5-4298-adf8-5c0c80a927c8&DisplayLang=en

Security, Policy & Compliance

IT Compliance Management Guide

Brief Description

The IT Compliance Management Guide is intended for IT managers and IT professionals who must plan for and address the governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) requirements of their organizations.

Overview

The IT Compliance Management Guide.zip file includes the following files:

IT Compliance Management Guide.docx. This guide will prepare you for a conversation with GRC subject matter experts such as attorneys, auditors, specialists, and consultants working for your organization. It introduces an approach based on Microsoft Operations Framework (MOF) 4.0 that can help you address compliance requirements as well as organization-wide governance initiatives.
IT Compliance Management Resources.xlsx. This Microsoft Excel workbook contains four worksheets. The Instructions worksheet provides reader instructions on the use of the tabs within this workbook. The GRC Control Objectives worksheet contains high-level objectives applicable to an IT department assigned GRC duties. The GRC Configuration Job Aids worksheet contains GRC objectives and associated Microsoft product configuration guidance to meet these objectives. The GRC Management Inventory worksheet contains GRC management guidance and additional product guidance for the management of a GRC solution.

This Solution Accelerator also includes the following files:

Release Notes.rtf. Provides information about updates and changes to the IT Compliance Management Guide.
IT Compliance Management Guide data sheet.docx. A two-page overview of the IT Compliance Management Guide that describes its purpose and provides other relevant information for IT managers and IT professionals.

Note: The IT Compliance Management Guide replaces the Regulatory Compliance Planning Guide version 1.0, published July 7, 2006.
To ask questions or provide feedback, subscribe to the Compliance Management Forum. This forum also provides the ability to join discussions and collaborate on GRC-related compliance management issues with your peers.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=bd930882-0d39-4900-9a79-b91f213ed15d&DisplayLang=en

Data Encryption Toolkit for Mobile PCs

Brief Description

This toolkit is intended to help you secure the data on your organization’s mobile PCs--in a cost-effective way--using Encrypting File System (EFS) and Microsoft BitLocker Drive Encryption (BitLocker) technologies.

Overview

The Data Encryption Toolkit for Mobile PCs describes how to effectively use both EFS and BitLocker to help address your organization's requirements to protect data on mobile PCs. The Toolkit also provides you with software tools and scripts to help you centrally configure, deploy, and manage encryption settings on all your mobile PCs.
The Data Encryption Toolkit for Mobile PCs includes the following four components:

Executive Overview. This document provides a broad survey from a business and regulatory perspective of how mobile data is at risk and how the Data Encryption Toolkit for Mobile PCs can help. It also provides information about how you can use the guidance and tools in this Solution Accelerator as well as tools you may already have licensed to mitigate these risks.

Security Analysis. This guide provides an in-depth review of how EFS and BitLocker can help you address the unique risks associated with data on mobile PCs.

Planning and Implementation Guide. This guide describes how to plan for, configure, deploy, and operate EFS and BitLocker in your organization.

Microsoft Encrypting File System Assistant. The EFS Assistant is a software tool you can use to centrally control EFS settings on all your PCs (the EFS Assistant also works with desktop PCs). The EFS Assistant can help you encrypt the sensitive files on your users' laptops, regardless of where those files are located. In addition, the EFS Assistant operates transparently to end users, eliminating training issues or other impacts. Note that you can obtain the EFS Assistant in one of two ways. The Microsoft version of the tool is available on this page. A community version of the tool is available for download from CodePlex, Microsoft's shared source development site at www.codeplex.com/EFSAssistant.

The Microsoft Security Assessment Tool 4.0 is the revised version of the original Microsoft Security Risk Self-Assessment Tool (MSRSAT), released in 2004 and the Microsoft Security Assessment Tool 2.0 released in 2006. Security issues have evolved since 2004 so additional questions and answers were needed to ensure you had a comprehensive toolset to become more aware of the evolving security threat landscape that could impact your organization.
The tool employs a holistic approach to measuring your security posture by covering topics across people, process, and technology. Findings are coupled with prescriptive guidance and recommended mitigation efforts, including links to more information for additional industry guidance. These resources may assist you in keeping you aware of specific tools and methods that can help change the security posture of your IT environment.
There are two assessments that define the Microsoft Security Assessment Tool:

Business Risk Profile Assessment
Defense in Depth Assessment (UPDATED)

The questions identified in the survey portion of the tool and the associated answers are derived from commonly accepted best practices around security, both general and specific. The questions and the recommendations that the tool offers are based on standards such as ISO 17799 and NIST-800.x, as well as recommendations and prescriptive guidance from Microsoft’s Trustworthy Computing Group and additional security resources valued in the industry.
After completing an Assessment, you will gain access to a detailed report of your results. You may also compare your results with those of your peers (by industry and company size), provided that you upload your results anonymously to the secure MSAT Web server. When you upload your data the application will simultaneously retrieve the most recent data available. To be able to provide this comparative data, we need customers such as you to upload their information. All information is kept strictly confidential and no personally identifiable information whatsoever will be sent. For more information on Microsoft's privacy policy, please visit: http://www.microsoft.com/info/privacy.mspx.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=cd057d9d-86b9-4e35-9733-7acb0b2a3ca1&DisplayLang=en

Microsoft Online Services Sign In Tool V1

Brief Description

Client application that enables single sign-on to Microsoft Online Services

Overview

Service Client application that enables single sign-on to Microsoft Online Services. With this tool, users can configure Outlook, Internet Explorer and LiveMeeting, then use it logon to the licensed, hosted applications subscribed on Microsoft Online Services.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=01f6c0e4-f897-442a-8462-425f8edddad9&DisplayLang=en

Other

Volume Activation 2.0 Technical Guidance

Brief Description

Technical documentation for planning, deployment, and operations of Volume Activation 2.0 for Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008. Includes the Volume Activation 2.0 Overview Guide, Planning Guide, Deployment Guide, Operations Guide, Resources, FAQ and Technical Attributes.

Overview

Volume Activation 2.0 Overview Guide, Planning Guide, Deployment Guide, Operations Guide - Provides planning, deployment and operational guidance for activating volume editions of Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008.
Volume Activation 2.0 Resources - Provides a list of resources for Volume Activation 2.0.
Volume Activation 2.0 FAQ - Answers to frequently asked questions about Volume Activation 2.0.
Volume Activation 2.0 Technical Attributes - Spreadsheet detailing Volume Activation 2.0 technical attributes.

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=4c0b1e02-adf3-4e79-9534-f8b664d3f84c&DisplayLang=en