I am looking for input on the simulator project I am working on

[G+_Jason Perry]

Originally shared by Jason Perry

 

I am looking for input on the simulator project I am working on.

 

What is the easiest way to automate 6+ computers turning on, auto logging on and running the simulator software?

 

Any suggestions?

I want to make the process as straight forward as possible.

[G+_610GARAGE]

A pi sending out magic packets to each computer would work. If windows, you can set auto login. Easy to google.

 

I think some motherboards can also wake up at a specific time if you need to buy the computers.

[G+_Branden Snyder]

I think you could do it with a combination of techniques:

1. Wake-On-Lan with something like this https://wakeonlanx.com/

2. Windows auto-login. https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/magazine/ee872306.aspx3a. Put the simulator shortcut in the "Startup" folder. https://support.office.com/en-us/article/Automatically-start-an-Office-program-when-you-turn-on-your-computer-4a42ed45-c064-47b6-b497-119c870f7bab3b. Or, create a scheduled task to start the simulator upon login

 

Automatic login is not considered secure, so network access should be restricted. Also, check out "deep freeze" to restore the computer after every reboot. I've personally used this at K-12 schools with good results.  http://www.faronics.com/products/deep-freeze/

 

Hope that helps! Let me know if you want more details :)

[G+_Jason Perry]

Branden Snyder?, it has been so long since I heard the name deep freeze I forgot it existed.

 

I am kinda thinking I want to put a script on the instructors console that will initiate the WOL for all the computers.

 

I also thinking of putting a script on the computers to act as a confirmation that they are running to trigger other events. But, I think I will stick with getting step one working before I do that.