Problems/Symptoms:
Deploying an MSI Distribution package fails with this error:
Fatal error during installation
MSI error code 1603
Note: This error may also occur using a Batch File Distribution package that calls an MSI or an Executable Distribution Package where the executable is a wrapper for an MSI.
Cause:
This is a generic error message that can be caused by numerous issues. The exact cause is usually determined using the MSI log.
Fix:
If an MSI distribution package is used, the MSI logging switch (/L) is automatically passed to an MSI installation and an MSI log is created in the agent's LDClient directory. It is named after the MSI with a .log extension.
If the MSI is being called with a batch file or an executable, the /L switch must be manually added (/L*V adds verbose logging). See the following web site for more information on MSI switches:
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa367988.aspx
Obtain and use the WiLogUtl utility to analyze the MSI log file that is created in the clients LDClient directory. This will usually give a root cause for the failure using the info in the MSI log file.
This utility can be found in the latest Microsoft Platform SDK:
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/aa372811(v=vs.85).aspx