How do I get the app to install with Configurator?

Question

Trying to set up a few iPads with all the same apps etc.  Have a VPP account (just started in Canada, whoot!), have purchased the apps, have the spreadsheets.
Instructions for Configurator say to import the app, and then later when installing the app import the VPP spreadsheet to authorize installation.  So I have to have the actual app on my computer in order to add it to configurator.
So how am I supposed to get the app?  I don't get a copy when I pay for the codes in the VPP store.  The redemption code link in the spreadsheet doesn't work with the apple id used for VPP - just says "this apple account is a vpp only account and cannot access the Apple Store" or words to that effect.
Do I have to burn one of my redemption codes just to download the app through some other regular apple account?  Do I have to budget for one extra code for every app just to download the app so I can administer it through Configurator?  That can't be right....
Jaso

Answer 1

Hi Jaso,
Here's how I've been doing it using the latest Apple Configurator 1.1.2.
First, go into iTunes and authorize with an Apple ID (iTunes -> Store -> Authroize this computer). It doesn't have to be a VPP Apple ID…just an ordinary Apple ID used to associate with the app. Use one of the VPP codes to download the app. It will go to ~/Music/iTunes/Mobile Applications. These apps will be linked to the Apple ID you authorized in iTunes. Next go into Apple Configurator and add the apps on the Prepare -> Apps screen. When you try to add the app in AC (clicking on the "+" at the bottom of the screen), you should be prompted to enter an Apple ID and password (see screenshot below).
It will say that "This Apple ID will be used to redeem VPP codes…" It is NOT the Apple ID used to purchase the VPP codes… The VPP codes can be redeemed by any Apple ID.
You must enter the same Apple ID and password that you used to download the app in iTunes, and you should be good to go. You will receive another prompt stating that a paid app has been imported. Click OK.
Now in the Apps screen you should see your paid app listed. On the right side of the app you will see a button with a "0" listed. That's how many VPP codes you have. Click on the "0" button. In the next window, click on Import Redemption Codes in the lower left corner. Navigate to your .xls file of VPP codes and click Open. You are now ready to use those codes on your group of iPads. You should get credited back the one VPP code you used to download it initially.
Hope this answers your question Good luck!!!
~Joe