SMS: Inventory Based on String Value at Offset Incorrect (177675)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Systems Management Server 1.2
This article was previously published under Q177675

SYMPTOMS

When specifying a string pattern at a particular offset for a file that is being inventoried, the Systems Management Server Software Inventory Agent counts a package as inventory even if the specified string pattern does not match at the offset specified. Therefore, if the file exists, the package is still counted as inventory.

RESOLUTION

A supported fix is now available from Microsoft, but it is only intended to correct the problem that is described in this article. Apply it only to computers that are experiencing this specific problem. This fix may receive additional testing. Therefore, if you are not severely affected by this problem, Microsoft recommends that you wait for the next Systems Management Server service pack that contains this hotfix.

To resolve this problem immediately, contact Microsoft Product Support Services to obtain the fix. For a complete list of Microsoft Product Support Services phone numbers and information about support costs, visit the following Microsoft Web site:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;EN-US;CNTACTMS

NOTE: In special cases, charges that are ordinarily incurred for support calls may be canceled if a Microsoft Support Professional determines that a specific update will resolve your problem. The typical support costs will apply to additional support questions and issues that do not qualify for the specific update in question.

The English version of this fix should have the following file attributes or later: 
   Date     Time        Size            File name      Platform
   ------------------------------------------------------------
   3/2/99   1:03PM      283,104 bytes   Inv32cli.exe   Intel
   3/1/99   7:08PM      296,368 bytes   Invwin32.exe   Intel

   3/2/99   1:06PM      866,576 bytes   Inv32cli.exe   Alpha
   3/1/99   7:18PM      882,960 bytes   Invwin32.exe   Alpha

NOTE: Due to file dependencies, the most recent hotfix or feature that contains the above files may also contain additional files.



WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, do not use the string property in a package's inventory rules. Use other properties instead to determine package inventory, such as file date, size, or checksum.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in 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.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:10/7/2005
Keywords:kbHotfixServer kbQFE kbBug kbfix kbInventory kbQFE KB177675
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