In case you missed this last Friday:

On February 8th, Microsoft made available the anticipated beta Configuration Manager, SP1 and R2 releases, for download. The SP1 release supports the upcoming releases of Windows Vista SP1 and Windows Server 2008. Additionally, SP1 integrates support for Intel’s vPro hardware while providing an online connection for live asset intelligence updates. The R2 release integrates Microsoft Application Virtualization distribution and streaming technology. R2 also provides SQL Reporting Services, a deeper integration with Forefront, as well as extra product enhancements.

Download the Configuration Manager SP1 and R2 Betas

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Here's the official announcement:

We are pleased to announce that System Center Configuration Manager 2007 Service Pack (SP) 1 and R2 Beta releases are now available on Microsoft Connect.  Sign in and navigate to the downloads section of the System Center Configuration Manager 2007 program site to download the bundles and release notes.  Please review the release notes carefully for late breaking information regarding the betas.   After that, please get this bits in your lab as quickly as possible and test,test,test  in preparation for your production deployment.

A few last minute notes:

• Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) 3.0 SP1 is required for ConfigMgr SP1 if using the Software Updates feature, go to the WSUS TechNet center to get more information and download WSUS 3.0 SP1.
• If you are upgrading from ConfigMgr RTM (5931), you will need to upgrade the Windows Automated Installation Kit (WAIK) on the site server to the updated version (located in the installation source under: \smssetup\WAIK) prior to upgrading the site.  You then must update your boot images to use the WinPE provided with the new WAIK.

If you find a bug:

• Is it critical or preventing you from deploying in production?:  Open a support incident with Beta Support Services using the contract provided to you and alert your TAP program manager contact immediately.
• Is it bothersome and needs to be fixed before we ship the product?  Submit a bug report via Microsoft Connect.  Navigate here and click the green Feedback link:

https://connect.microsoft.com/feedback/default.aspx?SiteID=16

If you have a suggestion, use the feedback link also to submit it.  Also, please be sure to review the smsv4.chm help file provided with the beta.  It contains updated information on both existing and new topics for Service Pack 1 and R2.

Please mail sccmtap@microsoft.com if you have any questions or problems with the download.

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Enjoy!

J.C. Hornbeck | Manageability Knowledge Engineer