UIU Support Case Example - Using Sysprep to Extend Disk Partition in Windows 7.

Many features of Windows operating systems that are accomplished natively by Sysprep are included in the various imaging solutions available on the market. One example of these features is the extension of a partition to utilize the total amount on the disc to be imaged, regardless of specific size.  This particular feature is executed during mini-setup.

Some imaging solutions include features to perform this operation well. The trouble is that some do not.  In the case where this feature is not included in the employed imaging solution, an administrator must resort to using the native toolset by manipulating the Unattend.XML file, (in Windows Vista and newer). 

If third party software is used during imaging, consideration must be given to the potential ramifications of certain Sysprep commands.  Special attention should also be paid to the feature from the perspective of which pass in Sysprep the command should be interjected to facilitate its proper inclusion into the Windows setup process.

In the specific example mentioned above, the following section would need to be added to the Specialize pass (outside of the RunSynchronous command) of the Unattend.XML:

<extendospartition>
<extend>true</extend>
</extendospartition>

An example of its placement follows: