ok, nativeEx_Win7 did build the iso, so I have to test it now.
1. The problem seems to have been that I didn't run "install" in archtoolsex for the first option (wimgapi.dll). Selecting the second option, "wimmount.sys / wimserv.exe" just creates about 10 errors in a row in the log. So I ended up unselecting it and then pressing install again with only wimgapi.dll.
2. There is still the mentioned issue with the manage wims tools--appears to hang and all boxes are greyed out since wimserv is not installed.
3. probably the default options should be rethought: shouldn't default to usb install or to vmware or to record to cd. should default only to creating an iso.
4. should I assume that nativeEx_Win7 replaces the need to check and download or use win7rescuepe project (which didn't work, as per first post)? should authors of install instructions be advised to use nativeEx_Win7 instead, and skip the waik download (I assume not needed any more?).
5. can't use the x86 win 7 dvd install from x64; I hope that doesn't create an issue with the apps I installed, will check.
6. see attached log: some missing files errors--it looks like nativeExwin7 can't find some os networking related files on the win 7 x64 dvd.
7. update: I can't boot the resulting iso. See new thread:
http://www.boot-land...showtopic=11034UPDATE: issue mainly resolved in that thread, though testing required. closing this thread.