39 replies to this topic

[amateurandy]

Dave Phelps, on Feb 4 2007, 09:19 AM, said:

Why not get an OEM version which other than a pretty box is no different? [

Are you sure, in particular have you checked out the license terms and whether it requires customisation as it's for System Builders?

[BASS]

OEM is for a single computer once it's on the motherboard it stays with that motherboard it can not be transferred to another computer. The Retail Version can be transferred to another computer you only licensed for one computer but if you where to buy another computer you can transfer it to your new machine

[amateurandy]

BASS, on Feb 4 2007, 09:49 AM, said:

OEM is for a single computer once it's on the motherboard it stays with that motherboard it can not be transferred to another computer. The Retail Version can be transferred to another computer you only licensed for one computer but if you where to buy another computer you can transfer it to your new machine

Correct. Though the definition of a computer can sometimes allow "upgrading" of the motherboard and other components.

I tried to find exactly how Microsoft are managing the OEM versions of Vista, but can't (quickly). I did find this quote on a web site selling it though:

This OEM software is intended for system builders only, or people acting as a system builder, and cannot be transferred to another PC once it is installed. The purchaser of this software is required to comply with the terms of the System Builder license, including the responsibility of providing all end user support for the software.
So, if you're happy with that (and a license you haven't read) then OEM version MAY be for you............

I also found this comment on a news site:

Microsoft has given the go ahead for users to buy the low-cost OEM copies of Windows Vista now appearing on sites like Newegg.com; however, they would be expected to adhere to the licensing terms just like any other computer manufacturer.

This could mean that support for those computers with this version of Windows installed would be the responsibility of the end-users themselves. Microsoft also noted that like with standard copies of Vista, a user running the OEM version would still be forced to reactivate if he or she substantially alters the computer's hardware configuration.

Edited by amateurandy, 04 February 2007 - 09:58 AM.

[amateurandy]

Dave Phelps, on Feb 4 2007, 09:58 AM, said:

Well I have never installed OEM Vista, but I have installed loads and loads of XP OEM's. They don't require any customisation, you just enter user info etc on boot.

Depending where they came from, they may have already been customised by the System Builder, typically to recognise that it's being installed on the right hardware. Dell and HP/Compaq have definitely done that at times, and several other makes I've encountered.
If you install on the right hardware you often don't need either a key or activation.

Quite what state the "generic" OEM Vista is in I wouldn't know; hopefully you can install from it, but worst case would be needing to run some specialised System Builder tools to "brand" or "customise" it to create "Your" installable Vista DVD.

[amateurandy]

Dave Phelps, on Feb 4 2007, 10:10 AM, said:

When Phelps Systems first started we use to be big in computers, supply, upgrade, repair etc.. ..... We still build our own machines for access control and CCTV applications.

You definitely get the "bin there, done that" gold star on PC's then!

[amateurandy]

georgahti, on Feb 4 2007, 10:40 AM, said:

it doesn't make it more legal at all if you don't buy any hardware..

eg. if you buy it with hd - then when that hd leaks its smoke out you should buy a new one (hd and os)..

Not necessarily. If you build your own PC and install an OEM OS it could be legal, even if the hardware is actually an old branded PC that you've wiped. It all depends on the wording of the OEM license agreement.....
And replacing bits (including HD) is fine as noted before - I've done it many times quite legally with help from the dreaded Microsoft.

[gupster]

Dave Phelps, on Feb 4 2007, 09:19 AM, said:

£200

Why not get an OEM version which other than a pretty box is no different? clicky



Dave

Ive always brought oem software as well, but was going to wait untill i upgrade to a 64bit machine before getting vista then go for the 64bit version.

[BASS]

Well guys loaded the VISTA ULTIMATE into my machine and it's brill I wouldn't go back to XP the features and graphics are outstanding as well as the security in it. The media centre is a lot better.

I would highly recommend it to you's

[amateurandy]

BASS, on Feb 7 2007, 10:59 AM, said:

Well guys loaded the VISTA ULTIMATE into my machine and it's brill I wouldn't go back to XP the features and graphics are outstanding as well as the security in it. The media centre is a lot better.

I would highly recommend it to you's

Just as a footnote for anyone who buys a Vista upgrade, I found this interesting page of information today:
http://www.instantvi...ta-upgrade.html
Basically, it explains how you can actually do a totally clean install of Vista using the upgrade version, i.e. not carrying over all the dross from your old and degrading XP or 2000 setup.
Now legally of course you have to have the correct OS on the PC to upgrade, but I haven't seen anything in Microsoft's T's & C's that says you can't wipe it off first (someone prove me wrong...).
So if, like me, you like to have a clean install this could be of interest.

Footnote; I have one PC running (100% legal) Vista Ultimate and I have tried various installation routes (it's a test system). Upgrading from XP had several odd issues that just went away on a clean install.

[GR3G]

I have the Release to manafactures edition, Just need the key for it.. lol

[leesutton]

Well guys i got a new laptop last week with vista home premium with the pentium dual core and its amazing takes a bit of gettin used to from xp but looks good so far. I spoke to microsoft and not all software will work with vista yet, Zone alarm in particular and got to try all my fire panel software yet. Just ordered a new cat 5e tester so i hope the software works with vista otherwise thats £300 down the drain, will keep you informed and also if you guys with vista can keep me up to speed.


lee

Edited by leesutton, 10 April 2007 - 11:15 PM.

[luggsey]

Can you upgrade to vista from Windows 98? (I have a genuine copy of 98 )

[amateurandy]

luggsey, on Apr 11 2007, 09:04 AM, said:

Can you upgrade to vista from Windows 98? (I have a genuine copy of 98 )

If a PC was designed for W98 it is highly unlikely to run Vista.

[luggsey]

amateurandy, on Apr 11 2007, 09:17 AM, said:

If a PC was designed for W98 it is highly unlikely to run Vista.

Dohh, I mean the disk, PC will be ok don't worry!

[purevisioncctv]

Windows Vista is also slightly same as the Windows XP proffessional. If you keep the CD then you may know the steps to proceed
But the vista's look is much beautiful than XP.