SMS: 16-bit Background Job Causes WOW VDM Environment Error Message

• Microsoft Systems Management Server version 1.2

SYMPTOMS

When performing distribution to Microsoft Windows NT clients using Package Command Manager (PCM) as a service, you may receive the following message on the clients:

16 bit windows subsystem hidden console WOW VDM error setting up environment

A job is currently running in the background

CAUSE

The first error occurs because environment variables specified in the Autoexec.nt are not valid for a background session. When PCMSVC32 attempts to start a 16-bit application (usually a Setup.exe or Systems Management Server Installer executable) it starts the WOW subsystem. During the subsystem initialization, the Autoexec.nt file is parsed. If this file contains a reference to a variable that does not exist, this error occurs. An example of an invalid line would be SET LOGONNAME=%USERNAME%.

The second error occurs because the Package Command Manager Service is running an SMS Installer package in a Dos VDM and can not close the VDM when the package installation is complete.

WORKAROUND

To avoid receiving this message, use a 32-bit setup application instead of 16-bit. For a Systems Management Server Installer package, use the True Win32 option which is available in advanced configuration. To correct the problem the SMS Installer Package should be recompiled using True Win32.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Microsoft Systems Management Server version 1.2. We are researching this problem and will post new information here in the Microsoft Knowledge Base as it becomes available.

Additional query words:

Keywords : smsinst smspcm smsutil
Version : winnt:1.2
Platform : winnt
Issue type : kbbug