Can I embed a file within an EXE?

[msc0tt]

Hello,
I wish to create a simple, single-file installer (i.e. install_client.exe). All this program needs to do is copy two files to the local HD, create a desktop shortcut, and set some registry keys.
This is a no-brainer EXCEPT I want to avoid delivering the two client files with the installer app.
Can I somehow attach them, or embed them within the VB exe installer, and then copy/extract them out from the VB code?

-with thanks,
Mike.

p.s. I've played a bit with the Package and Deployment Wizard, but I wasn't able to get it to create a single-file installer.

 

[sciophyte]

http://www.planet-source-code.com/vb/scripts/ShowCode.asp?txtCodeId=34370&lngWId=1

try looking at that sample, i dunno if it works, but there are plenty of this kind of sample on planet-source-code.com. someone else also mentioned the free app from microsoft visual studio installer 1.1 which i think is sposed to be better than the package and deployment wizard, none of this is first hand so i can't offer you much help other than pointing you in the right direction.

 

[LPlates]

He he, the easiest way would be to simply include the files as resource files in your project and extract them from there. Search keywords: 'Extract file from resource'

 

[DrJavaJoe]

See JAG14's post in thread222-674193 sounds like a nice solution.

 

[vbSun]

Single file installer can be created using Wise Install Maker, Setup factory etc. These are commercial products, but yea these are the best alternatives to PDW.

------------------------------------------
The faulty interface lies between the chair and the keyboard.

 

[JeffTullin]

Commercial installers: Quick tip - if you can hunt out a copy of Delphi on ebay or similar, it came with Installshield Express on the CD.
Easy, quick, does the job, and if you have to pay more than a few notes for an old copy of Delphi 1/2 I'd be astonished!

(Off topic sacriledge: you may even try and like Delphi ;>)

 

[msc0tt]

Thanks all. For those that don't want a commercial solution, I have put a roll-you-own solution in a FAQ (faq222-4774).
-Mike