Here is a link for a downloadable PDF on the subject: http://en.community.dell.com/techcenter/extras/m/white_papers/20065812.aspx

You can do a remote OS install using the iDRAC7 express.

 

Regards,

Thanks Geoff! I've read that previously, and although it says I *can* do remote install, I am having a hard time finding out how I can install Windows onto the server without the remote virtual console.

Thanks again!

The documentation can be a bit misleading on this topic.  The iDRAC 7 Express either as an option or add-on card gives the Lifecycle Controller a driver database to use for an OS preinstall setup.  The iDRAC 7 Express on a Blade server (PowerEdge M*20 series) includes the Virtual Console and Virtual Media features that would be necessary to do a remote installation of Windows on a server, but those two features are not included in the iDRAC 7 Express on your R720.  I suggest downloading and installing a trial iDRAC 7 Enterprise license to see the difference.  

If you are going to be managing the server remotely I highly recommend having the iDRAC 7 Enterprise, it has quite a few features that can save you a trip to the datacenter in a pinch.

Hello,

Here is some information about booting into an OS remotely (which uses winRM commands from windows or WSMAN commands from linux).

Best Practice Guide: [SEE SECTIONS 4.3, 4.4]

http://en.community.dell.com/techcenter/extras/m/white_papers/20066173.aspx

Various white papers:

http://en.community.dell.com/techcenter/systems-management/w/wiki/4317.white-papers-for-idrac7-with-lifecycle-controller-2.aspx

High Level: http://www.delltechcenter.com/lc

Hope this helps,

steve