[cyberspacegenie]

Quick question.

I picked up a second hand computer and in the stuff that came with it was a copy of windows vista home. The computer has no hard drive at the mo so cant get any info about it. I'm trying to find out if its a retail copy or oem copy. I know in the past OEM copies have had the letters OEM in the serial number - is that still the case? This one does not have OEM in the serial so I'm hoping its a retail copy so I can install it on another computer instead of this one (I know you cant install the same copy one 2 computers at the same time).

Can anyone clarify?

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Howdy:

What does it say on the cd?

What is the make of the system you bought?

Did you get a key code with the cd?

Murray

Edited by Murray S., 27 January 2008 - 08:20 AM.

[Murray S.]

Howdy:

What does it say on the cd?

What is the make of the system you bought?

Did you get a key code with the cd?

Murray

Edited by Murray S., 27 January 2008 - 08:20 AM.

[cyberspacegenie]

The CD is boxed. On the disk itself it just says Windows Vista Home Premium. 32 bit software only. it has a part number ref. x12-24164-02. It also says `includes windows anytime updrade`.

The box has the product key on it but it doesnt say OEM in the product key - as I understand it now OEM appears in the activation code not the product code.

The system was a self built system, but the guy I bought it from didnt build it, it had been built by a friend of his who had left the country so he was selling it on his behalf. The guy had taken the hard drive with him, hence no hard drive.

There is also a quick start guide booklet and a booklet about ordering a cd or a 64bit copy.

Edited by cyberspacegenie, 28 January 2008 - 08:06 AM.

[Murray S.]

If the box itself does not say "Upgrade" or "For resale with a new system only", then it should be a retail version.

If that is so, then you can install it on another system should your original system ever fail and you have to replace it.

Murray

[cyberspacegenie]

I really hope thats the case! I have read though that retail versions usually contain both 32bit and 64bit versions, and OEM you have to choose one or the other. Because this one says '32bit software only' it makes me think that despite the box it may be OEM.

[cathudog]

Is there a COA on the case or is it on the case of the computer and if so on the COA it says OEM ny Oem for system builders in in a clear off white plastic case with booklet and a white sleeve that the case is in and on that white paper sleeve it also says OEM for system builders. There is also on the black booklet a white sticker that syas OEM if this helps Good Luck.

[cyberspacegenie]

The computer is custom build so nothing on the case. its a shame its so difficult to identify whether this is OEM or not. i may have to just bite the bullet and install it and see what happens - I was just hoping to avoid an unnecessary install! Anyone else any ideas before I bite the bullet?