OEM

Bags · 2011-12-18, 01:59 PM

I have installed win7 64 bit on my pc, if I get an OEM version of it can I use that CD key without reinstalling or anything?'

I know it's tied to one mobo and no tech support, but I don't need their tech and I don't update my mobo too often!

Goku · 2011-12-18, 08:31 PM

It shouldn't be a issue. Worse case do the phone activation.

EDIT: Wait I'm confused. Are you asking if you have to reinstall due to the new mobo?

Bags · 2011-12-18, 10:00 PM

Originally Posted by Goku

It shouldn't be a issue. Worse case do the phone activation.

EDIT: Wait I'm confused. Are you asking if you have to reinstall due to the new mobo?

Nah, I just want to make sure I can use an OEM key via the Windows Activation after installing win7

Goku · 2011-12-19, 07:28 AM

Yes you should be able to. Most people I know that use OEM have successfully switch out to different mobos.

Bags · 2011-12-19, 02:27 PM

Yeah. I figured in 12 years I've had 3 mobos total that being restricted to one mobo wouldn't be bad to save $200.

Infektion · 2011-12-20, 04:58 PM

Originally Posted by Bags

Yeah. I figured in 12 years I've had 3 mobos total that being restricted to one mobo wouldn't be bad to save $200.

I ALWAYS do a full install when changing something like a mobo... don't want them renegade drivers messing with anything :P. How bad is it? Mobo swap and full assembly takes me about 30 mins. Windows 7 install takes about an hour or 2 depending on the programs... I have a spare drive for all my downloads and backup programs or backup images. It takes me about 2 hours to get my PC fully working like new on fresh OS.

The underlined sounds redundant huh?

inigma · 2011-12-20, 05:56 PM

Originally Posted by Infektion

I ALWAYS do a full install when changing something like a mobo... don't want them renegade drivers messing with anything :P. How bad is it? Mobo swap and full assembly takes me about 30 mins. Windows 7 install takes about an hour or 2 depending on the programs... I have a spare drive for all my downloads and backup programs or backup images. It takes me about 2 hours to get my PC fully working like new on fresh OS.

The underlined sounds redundant huh?

thats why i image. os plus drivers and updates from boot to play, in 10 minutes flat.

Rbstr · 2011-12-22, 09:58 PM

I've used OEM windows forever and swapped mobos several times. I did it with my current computer.

I have had to call MS before, but they've always activated it.