How to Install MS Server 2008 via Boot Disk

I might add that this server has a floppy drive.  It also has two USB ports so if I can get the Windows 2008 server files on a USB drive, how can I boot to it?

this guide gives a nice method to do the installation using a USB key ( it also explains the copying process)

http://jesscoburn.com/archives/2007/10/15/installing-windows-2008-via-usb-thumbdrive/

You can do the base 2008 install using a USB key, then install the additional drivers using the smartstart CD after installation or via download.

Another option is to use the ILO port, if you connect it to your network, you can browse to the web interface which offers the ability to install software by using a shared drive. You may need a ILO advanced license which offers some nice remote console features too.

http://h18013.www1.hp.com/products/servers/management/remotemgmt.html?jumpid=servers/lights-out

The last one post of woolnoir is the best solution. But you have to have ILO license purchased :] If you have, do it that way. It's the most simple and very convenient way.

The ML350 Doesn't seem to be able to boot from USB according to the BIOS.  We aren't sticking anymore money into this so I'm not buying an ILO license unless it's cheaper than the $30 SCSI DVD drive I just ordred ;-)

usb booting is supported on the ML350

Press F9 Key when prompted for Rom-Based Setup Utility.
- Go to System Options
- Select USB Control
- Select Legacy USB and enable it.

woolnoir,

There is no USB Control under system options.  This is a ML350 G3.  I know there were USB options on the G5s.  I can't seem to find whether HP added it to the G3 in any of their BIOS updates.

Interesting - im looking on HP support now and there are a lot of questions about disabling USB booting on the g3 - this does suggest that by default its enabled and works. What bios version are you running on the box ?

woolnoir,

I'm running Compaq BIOS D14.  I really appreciate your help.

ANother thought, for the remote media to work with ILO you need an advanced license, but you can order a trial :)

http://h18004.www1.hp.com/products/servers/management/tryinsightcontrol/index.html

that may get you the ability to do the install... it will need a network port for the ILO adaptor, the initial password is on the sticker or tearoff thingy on the side of the server.

Also - how did you determine that the USB device is not bootable , have you tried making a USB boot key, like i posted above. Then putting it in the server and THEN checking the bios - the server you have will often only let you select USB as a boot option when it detects a bootable USB key (if you have tried this - ignore :) )

Im using a USB harddrive to try to boot, not a key(flash drive) as I don't have one big enough.  It's still now showing up in the bios, even with the USB drive plugged in.  I'm not seeing any options to boot from USB.  Do you think I Need a BIOS update?

I simply bought a SCSI DVD drive