Topic 'Windows 7 OEM for System Builders' in forum 'Microsoft Help' - dslreports.com http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295109 en Sat, 11 Feb 2012 16:39:26 EDT Sat, 11 Feb 2012 16:39:26 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23861556
Everything depends on the legal definition of a "computer" or "computer system". In the UK this definition is:

"any device or a group of interconnected or related devices, one or more of which, pursuant to a program, performs automatic processing of data"

I'm not able to find a definition for the US, it may well simply be defined as a motherboard (though I doubt it).

So a computer is the sum of its parts and not one particular part. When does a computer become a new computer? That depends on many things, least not philosophy (one of the oldest questions). I am pretty sure that is what joako was getting at. If you want to define swapping out a mobo as constituting a new computer, then go ahead and buy a new license each time you upgrade your hardware. I tend to use the legal definition of computer when reading any EULA (unless otherwise defined INTERNALLY). If the legal definition of computer is muddy in the context of Microsoft's EULAs than that is their problem and they need better lawyers (they probably need better lawyers anyway - seen all the fines they're racking up lately?). Let them sue me, which won't happen (and has never happened). You can even change your motherboard and call them to reactivate your license and they go "okely dokely" in that Ned Flanders voice they all have.

The EULA is only relevant in the context of Law, (and certainly not unreferenced definitions buried away in Microsoft FAQs, for anyone reading this and getting the fear of god put into them by Microsoft staff).

Ever see anyone prosecuted 'transferring' a license by swapping out a motherboard? No, because contrary to what Microsoft's license may or may not say, it can only operate in a legal environment. There is more chance of someone successfully suing Microsoft for revoking their license because they changed their motherboard than Microsoft suing anyone (nevermind successfully) over this. They know that, but hide behind the pretence of their flawed EULA because it is a good marketing tool to shift more units (fear sells).

Next time you swap out a mobo, or a whole system (I did this 6 months back), phone them to reactivate. It really is that simple and the conversation flows along the lines of "I know that you know that I know" from both sides.

So yes, it is pretty clear what is factual and what is fantasy. Legal definitions are factual. Using those legal definitions in a EULA is a wholly inappropriate manner is fantasy.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23861556 Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:15:08 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23751914 said by joako:

Read the Windows OEM EULA

quote:
21. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This agreement (including the warranty below), additional terms (including any printed-paper license terms that accompany the software and may modify or replace some or all of these terms), and the terms for supplements, updates, Internet-based services and support services that you use, are the entire agreement for the software and support services.


Now go on and tell me where it says anything other than you can not transfer the license between computers? I can not post proof of words that do not exsist!
[att=1]

Right here. :D

quote:
2. INSTALLATION AND USE RIGHTS.

a. One Copy per Computer. The software license is permanently assigned to the computer with which the software is distributed. That computer is the "licensed computer."

b. Licensed Computer. You may use the software on up to two processors on the licensed computer at one time. Unless otherwise provided in these license terms, you may not use the software on any other computer.
Not unless permanent doesn't mean this any longer after all these Decades.

»www.merriam-webster.com/netdict/permanently
quote:
: continuing or enduring without fundamental or marked change


And upgrading the OS doesn't let you get around the terms to use, sell or transfer the older version either.

quote:
14. UPGRADES. To use upgrade software, you must first be licensed for the software that is eligible for the upgrade. Upon upgrade, this agreement takes the place of the agreement for the software you upgraded from. After you upgrade, you may no longer use the software you upgraded from.


You can only transfer the OS if the PC and all prior OS versions (if an upgrade was used) go with the PC, you can't keep any copies or prior versions of any of the OS.

quote:
16. TRANSFER TO A THIRD PARTY. You may transfer the software directly to a third party only with the licensed computer. The transfer must include the software and the Certificate of Authenticity label. You may not keep any copies of the software or any earlier version. Before any permitted transfer, the other party must agree that this agreement applies to the transfer and use of the software.


It is pretty clear what is factual and what is fantasy.
--
What’s the point of owning a supercar if you can’t scare yourself stupid from time to time?
Windows 7_Ho···lish.pdf
Windows 7 Home Premium English EULA
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23751914 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 02:19:50 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23751690 Windows OEM EULA

quote:
21. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This agreement (including the warranty below), additional terms (including any printed-paper license terms that accompany the software and may modify or replace some or all of these terms), and the terms for supplements, updates, Internet-based services and support services that you use, are the entire agreement for the software and support services.


Now go on and tell me where it says anything other than you can not transfer the license between computers? I can not post proof of words that do not exsist!
--
PRescott7-2097]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23751690 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:26:33 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23750235 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23750235 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 18:51:15 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23747446 said by joako:

The facts are in the EULA. Nothing can change the EULA.
Wrong, Microsoft can and they have done it multiple times already and will continue to do so.
--
What’s the point of owning a supercar if you can’t scare yourself stupid from time to time?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23747446 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 10:46:50 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23739188 --
PRescott7-2097]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23739188 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 21:03:31 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23739038 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23739038 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 20:37:12 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738971
Or for that matter the Windows Vista OEM EULA or Windows XP OEM EULA.

None of them talk about hardware compoenents or ask you to refer to a microsoft website, FAQ or similar. They only state that you can not transfer the OEM license between computers. I think a good benchmark would be how many computers do you have? If you have 1 computer and replace everything but the case for whatever reason and you count out what you have -- parts that make up 2 computers working or not. If you have a computer where an internal part, such as the motherboard, fails and it is replaced you only have 1 computer and a part. How could you possibly have TRANFERED the Windows license between computers if you don't have more than 1 computer?

The EULA is a legal binding contract between Microsoft and the end user. Anything that is not covered there is irrelevant. Furthermore when people try to argue the same as you they post all these FAQs and documents that come from various system builder programs that are not relevent, such as the links you posted above to FAQs for system refurbishers -- Microsoft has licencing programs for refurbished PCs as they do for new PCs.
--
PRescott7-2097]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738971 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 20:24:05 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738824 said by joako:

Where in the license agreement is this stated? Or where in the license agreement does it state to refer to an FAQ?
Which Licensing Agreement are you asking about because with Win 7 you must buy Retail if you built your own System so OEM is a moot point.

Licensing for Hobbyists
»oem.microsoft.com/script/content···d=563841
quote:
There is a growing market for "do-it-yourself" home PC hobbyists who assemble PCs from components for their own use. Microsoft retail software licenses are the appropriate licenses for the do-it-yourself market. OEM System Builder software is not intended for this use, unless the PC that is assembled is being resold to another party.

OEM System Builder License

Use of OEM System Builder software is subject to the terms of the Microsoft OEM System Builder License:

* The software is intended for preinstallation on a new personal computer for resale.
* The software requires the assembler to provide end-user support for the Windows software, and cannot be transferred to another computer once it is installed.


System Builder License is only for resellers.
»oem.microsoft.com/public/sblicen···lish.pdf
quote:
MICROSOFT OEM SYSTEM BUILDER LICENSE
(Visit www.microsoft.com/oem for additional OEM System Builder information)
That license informs you to read the MS Web Site for additional info, seems pretty damn clear.

Because of people abusing the old loopholes they rewrote the Win 7 License Terms and you can no longer do as was once allowed with XP OEM.

quote:
2. Authorized Distribution and Acceptance. To distribute the Software or Hardware in this Pack, you must be a System Builder and accept this license. “System Builder” means an original equipment manufacturer, an assembler, a refurbisher, or a software pre-installer that sells the Customer System(s) to a third party. You accept this license when you open this Pack. If you choose not to accept this license, promptly return the unopened Pack to your distributor.
That is pretty clear also.

quote:
b. End User License Terms. You must distribute the Software pursuant to the end user license terms (“License Terms”) that accompany it. Under the License Terms, you are the Licensor.
Hmm, you are not the Licensee, but instead you are the Licensor.

This is pretty clear. MS has the right reserved in the Agreement you keep mentioning to change/update that agreement at any time. In fact if you installed SP2 or SP3 on an XP system you agreed to this and said it was OK.

OEM Microsoft Windows (including XP Pro and XP Home) Licensing Changes You Need To Know About!
»blogs.msdn.com/mssmallbiz/archiv···950.aspx

Enjoy!
--
What’s the point of owning a supercar if you can’t scare yourself stupid from time to time?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738824 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 19:58:22 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738666 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738666 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 19:31:24 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738651 --
PRescott7-2097]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738651 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 19:28:53 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738575 said by joako:

No, all major OEM Windows product keys are invalid for on-line activation because using the recovery disc with the original motherboard no activation is needed.
Interesting, I just had to reinstall my OEM Windows7 Pro over the weekend. I had to reactivate and I was able to reactivate over the internet. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738575 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 19:14:28 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738314 --
PRescott7-2097]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23738314 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 18:36:42 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23737776
Subsequently, activation failed but I was prompted to call a MS phone number. I called and explained the situation and while I can't exactly recall what they did, the issue got resolved without me having to make another donation.

I assume that the OEM version activation process posts some unique ID's from hardware devices to MS and these can't be changed.

Thou I can't be sure, I'd be surprised if this mechanism had changed in Windows 7.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23737776 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 17:49:16 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23737367 --
PRescott7-2097]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23737367 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 16:08:50 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23734252 »download.microsoft.com/download/···uide.pdf

Microsoft® Windows® Operating System Licensing Guide for
»oem.microsoft.com/public/oem/ref···uide.pdf

Frequently Asked Questions
»oem.microsoft.com/script/content···d=552846
quote:
Q. Can I provide a computer system to my customer without an operating system (also referred to as a "naked PC")?

A. Yes. There is nothing illegal about selling a computer system without an operating system. However, getting the operating system preinstalled is your customer's most cost-effective way to acquire a genuine Windows operating system license. A customer who subsequently wants to install a Microsoft Windows desktop operating system on that naked PC will need to acquire it through the retail (full packaged product) channel which is a more costly option. Full Windows operating systems are not available through any Microsoft Volume Licensing program, and an OEM operating system license cannot be transferred from an "old" PC to a new one.

Please see www.microsoft.com/preinstallgenuine for more information on acquiring Windows operating systems preinstalled on a new PC.


quote:
Q. Can a PC with an OEM Windows operating system have its motherboard upgraded and keep the same license? What if it was replaced because it was defective?

A. Generally, an end user can upgrade or replace all of the hardware components on a computer—except the motherboard—and still retain the license for the original Microsoft OEM operating system software. If the motherboard is upgraded or replaced for reasons other than a defect, then a new computer has been created. Microsoft OEM operating system software cannot be transferred to the new computer, and the license of new operating system software is required. If the motherboard is replaced because it is defective, you do not need to acquire a new operating system license for the PC as long as the replacement motherboard is the same make/model or the same manufacturer's replacement/equivalent, as defined by the manufacturer's warranty.

The reason for this licensing rule primarily relates to the End User Software License Terms and the support of the software covered by that End User Software License Terms. The End User Software License Terms is a set of usage rights granted to the end user by the PC manufacturer and relates only to rights for that software as installed on that particular PC. The system builder is required to support the software on the original PC. Understanding that end users, over time, upgrade their PCs with different components, Microsoft needed to have one base component "left standing" that would still define the original PC. Since the motherboard contains the CPU and is the "heart and soul" of the PC, when the motherboard is replaced (for reasons other than defect) a new PC is essentially created. The original system builder did not manufacture this new PC, and therefore cannot be expected to support it.


quote:
Q. Can my customers transfer or sell their OEM software licenses?

A. After an OEM software license has been installed on a PC, the license may not be installed on or transferred to another PC. However, the entire PC may be transferred to another end user along with the software license rights. When transferring the PC to the new end user, the software media, manuals (if applicable), and Certificate of Authenticity label must be included. It is also advisable to include the original purchase invoice or receipt. The original end user cannot keep any copies of the software.


quote:
Q. My customer bought a new PC and wants to move the OEM software from the old PC to the new one. Can't users do whatever they want with their software?

A. The OEM software is licensed with the computer system on which it was originally installed and is tied to that original machine. OEM licenses are single-use licenses that cannot be installed on more than one computer system, even if the original machine is no longer in use. The End User Software License Terms, which the end user must accept before using the software, states that the license may not be shared, transferred to, or used concurrently on different computers. System builders must provide end-user support for the Windows license on computers they build, but cannot support licenses on computers they didn’t build. This is a fundamental reason why OEM System Builder licenses can't be transferred.


quote:
Q. What is the difference between a refurbished PC and a used PC?

A. A refurbished PC is a computer system that has had substantial hardware modifications that may require a new operating system license—because the modifications have essentially created a "new" PC.

Generally, an end user can upgrade or replace all of the hardware components on a computer—except the motherboard—and still retain the license for the original Microsoft OEM operating system software. If the motherboard is upgraded or replaced for reasons other than a defect, then a new computer has been created. Microsoft OEM operating system software cannot be transferred to the new computer, and the license of new operating system software is required.

If the motherboard is replaced because it is defective, you do not need to acquire a new operating system license for the PC as long as the replacement motherboard is the same make/model or the same manufacturer's replacement/equivalent, as defined by the manufacturer's warranty.

A used PC is a computer system that has had few or no hardware changes. The license for OEM software on a used PC may not be transferred to a new or different PC. However, the entire used PC, including the software media, manuals, and Certificate of Authenticity, may be transferred to another end user along with the software license rights.


quote:
Q. If my customer asks me to upgrade a PC with new hardware components, when is a new operating system needed? When would the PC be considered "new"?

A. Generally, an end user can upgrade or replace all of the hardware components on a computer—except the motherboard—and still retain the license for the original Microsoft OEM operating system software. If the motherboard is upgraded or replaced for reasons other than a defect, then a new computer has been created. Microsoft OEM operating system software cannot be transferred to the new computer, and the license of new operating system software is required.

If the motherboard is replaced because it is defective, you do not need to acquire a new operating system license for the PC as long as the replacement motherboard is the same make/model or the same manufacturer's replacement/equivalent, as defined by the manufacturer's warranty.

--
What’s the point of owning a supercar if you can’t scare yourself stupid from time to time?
Windows Lice··· PCs.pdf
Windows Licensing Guide for Refurb PCs
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23734252 Sun, 31 Jan 2010 23:35:16 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23733903 ownership on more than one occasion, for complete hardware changes for the same OS.

OoPs, license!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23733903 Sun, 31 Jan 2010 21:47:33 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23733494 --
What’s the point of owning a supercar if you can’t scare yourself stupid from time to time?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23733494 Sun, 31 Jan 2010 20:03:31 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23733188
If a part of your computer fails and you build a new computer you can not transfer the OEM version of Windows.
If a part of your computer fails you can not transfer the OEM license to another computer.
If a part of your computer fails and you buy one that is compatible and install it there is no reason to buy another copy of Windows.
--
PRescott7-2097]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23733188 Sun, 31 Jan 2010 18:45:59 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23705350 said by Martinus:

But there's something a bit strange here. According to the Ed Bott article, "...nor can the motherboard be upgraded.".
Now, let's say you are a small system builder and have a little business going. You sell a box to a customer with the OEM license. Fine. The customer's mobo and CPU get fried - has happened to me - and you take the box for mobo and CPU replacement. Do you tell your customer that he/she, not only has to pay for the replaced parts but also for a new OS license?
No, you can replaced the defective or dead motherboard with the exact same motherboard model and you do not have to buy a new OEM license, but if you upgrade the motherboard to a newer model, then the OEM license goes out with the old motherboard. Buy Retail instead of OEM to no longer have that limitation. This isn't strange either as XP and Vista have those same OEM terms limiting the motherboard from being upgraded.
--
What’s the point of owning a supercar if you can’t scare yourself stupid from time to time?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23705350 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:04:09 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23695024 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23695024 Sun, 24 Jan 2010 15:12:12 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23693549 said by Kiwi:

...unless somebody can show differently, the OEM will allow ten loads on different hardware installs before prompting a call to MS... That sounds great but where did you find that info?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23693549 Sun, 24 Jan 2010 04:36:32 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23693546 said by prizmeye:

To you all:

I would appreciate a final answer. Can I install my newly-purchased Win7 Pro 64-bit OEM System Builder version on a brand-new (clean) machine without the OPK, OR NOT???
Yes!

I've installed 2 W7 Pro 64-bit OEM at home without the OPK. Installed without a glitch and running great so far.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23693546 Sun, 24 Jan 2010 04:35:10 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23693276 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23693276 Sun, 24 Jan 2010 01:08:41 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692413 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692413 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 20:17:10 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692409
I like the way your logic works. I'm feeling better now that I've built my 2nd Win7 system using OEM version.

Freddy]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692409 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 20:16:26 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692353 said by prizmeye:

Can I install my newly-purchased Win7 Pro 64-bit OEM System Builder version on a brand-new (clean) machine without the OPK?
Yes.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692353 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 19:58:00 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692327 said by Martinus:

Thanks, guys.

The catch with OPK is that you need to install it in a PC with Windows 7 so, if all you got are OEM System Builder versions, you can't install it.

Freddy See Profile, Yes. That's what I do: family members and selected friends.

seagreen See Profile. Thanks for the link. Very informative.

But there's something a bit strange here. According to the Ed Bott article, "...nor can the motherboard be upgraded.".
Now, let's say you are a small system builder and have a little business going. You sell a box to a customer with the OEM license. Fine. The customer's mobo and CPU get fried - has happened to me - and you take the box for mobo and CPU replacement. Do you tell your customer that he/she, not only has to pay for the replaced parts but also for a new OS license?
No they do not have to buy a new license. Nowhere in the Windows 7 OEM EULA does it mention anything close to motherboards, system boards or even anything about PC components. It only states that the license can not be transfered to another PC. If a PC breaks it can be fixed without buying a new copy of Windows. This also applies e.g you buy an major OEM system and the motherboard dies. The system is out of warranty and a replacment costs $200 (yes I have one example here.. Acer Aspire desktop). Some people suggest if you buy a motherboard that is not an exact replacement you need to buy a new copy of Windows because your OEM copy is no longer valid. Microsoft has some FAQs and articles which are not the EULA that also state or imply this. But if you go back to the EULA these claims are 100% bogus.

said by Freddy:

Martinus,

Yeah, after reading seagreen's reference, I agree with you in that OPK has to be used with OEM versions. I didn't use it because I didn't notice that catch before.

Freddy
To hell with their "requirements" if it is for personal use. I understand why the requirement is there and it is because Microsoft wants the end user to have the full OOBE and I suppose mainly so they can accept the license agreement.

Martinus See Profile, to answer you question. If you purchase Windows 7 OEM there is no technical reason why you need to use the OPK. The Windows install disc will work just fine. If the end user purchases a computer from a small system builder they would have been given the Windows DVD without the OPK... how do you think they reinstall Windows... without the OPK!
--
PRescott7-2097]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692327 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 19:49:40 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692315
It seems that the MS rule regards multiple hardware loads might still be present, hence the retail buy, but unless somebody can show differently, the OEM will allow ten loads on different hardware installs before prompting a call to MS, seems doubtful you would get a hard time, loading more or different hardware, on one PC.

The old method looked at loads that differed on: The mobo, Hard drive, memory and video card and one of any was acceptable, even two; but not three.

For the most part, OEM works for the majority of people who won't make constant hardware changes, @ least that's my understanding. As I change out hardware on a constant bases, the retail works for me; I don't want to be bothered by MS. :) It's enough I have helped MS for many years and no return, I would rather they just leave me alone now.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692315 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 19:47:38 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692200
I would appreciate a final answer. Can I install my newly-purchased Win7 Pro 64-bit OEM System Builder version on a brand-new (clean) machine without the OPK, OR NOT??? I do not have access to a Win7/WinVista/or Win2003 computer (as MS says is required). Hence, I'm out of luck and cannot install it if the OPK is *absolutely* required. Will this work, or not?

Thanks.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23692200 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 19:15:07 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295608
Yeah, after reading seagreen's reference, I agree with you in that OPK has to be used with OEM versions. I didn't use it because I didn't notice that catch before.

Freddy]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295608 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:38:52 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295546
The catch with OPK is that you need to install it in a PC with Windows 7 so, if all you got are OEM System Builder versions, you can't install it.

Freddy See Profile, Yes. That's what I do: family members and selected friends.

seagreen See Profile. Thanks for the link. Very informative.

But there's something a bit strange here. According to the Ed Bott article, "...nor can the motherboard be upgraded.".
Now, let's say you are a small system builder and have a little business going. You sell a box to a customer with the OEM license. Fine. The customer's mobo and CPU get fried - has happened to me - and you take the box for mobo and CPU replacement. Do you tell your customer that he/she, not only has to pay for the replaced parts but also for a new OS license?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295546 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:29:46 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295359 [Info] All you wanted to know (or didn't) about Win7 licensing]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295359 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:53:58 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295297
I too use OEM versions to build new systems for friends and family members. My understanding is that you don't have to use OPK to install OEM version. You may use it however to streamline the OS installation process, customize Help and Support and create recovery, etc.

I just finished building an OEM Win7 system for my brother without using OPK. It activated and is working with no problems.

That's the way it works for me.

Freddy]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295297 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:43:58 EDT Re: Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295273 said by Martinus:

it states: "...it must be preinstalled on the hard drive of the fully assembled computer system using the OEM Preinstallation Kit (OPK)"

My question is: has anybody installed W7 OEM for System Builders? Can it be installed without the OPK? It looks like an extra hassle to me as I do not need embedding a company logo, etc.
I installed the OEM ver. of Win7U on a newly rebuilt (home-built) machine. I didn't see the OPK requirement until after W7 was all installed and running.

So, yes, it can be installed without OPK. The activation went through with no glitches. I assume the OPK was more likely aimed at volume builders rather than the home builder but according to the wording it looks like what I did was illegal. :uhh:

I can't answer the question about what will happen should you need to change hardware. I would suppose that some changes would be allowed but may require a phone call to activate an OEM copy a second time.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295273 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:40:05 EDT Windows 7 OEM for System Builders http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295109 PC Hardware Discussion/Reviews

I know this question is not about hardware in the strict sense but there are probably more system builders in this forum than in the Software or the Microsoft forums. But mod, feel free to move this post if you see fit.

I have always built my own boxes - the 4 at home, plus two for my daughters plus two for their boyfriends, etc. And I've always used OEM OS - who needs support from Microsoft anyway? The last being XP - I never wanted to install Vista and was waiting for W7.

My approach has always been to take an image of a fresh installation after activation but before installing any software or extra drivers. That way, I can always go back to an activated and clean OS.

But, sometimes, things happen. I've had a PSU die on me taking with it the mobo and the CPU. Other times, I've upgraded HDs or/and RAM etc, requiring sometimes a reactivation of the OS. Of all these times, only twice I've had to call Microsoft, being the last activation not too far in time. And, after explaining to them that I had to replace the mobo, CPU and RAM, they've always provided me with a new activation code without problems.

Now, I've just bought two W7 OEM 64bit for System Builders - I'll be building two new boxes soon. In the package, it states: "...it must be preinstalled on the hard drive of the fully assembled computer system using the OEM Preinstallation Kit (OPK)"

This is new to me. XP OEM versions allowed to be installed without this requirement.

My question is: has anybody installed W7 OEM for System Builders? Can it be installed without the OPK? It looks like an extra hassle to me as I do not need embedding a company logo, etc.

What about replacing the mobo / CPU / Ram, etc? Is W7 OEM licensed different than XP OEM?

Many thanks
Martinus]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Windows-7-OEM-for-System-Builders-23295109 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:58:00 EDT