Windows 7 installation - Blu-ray Forum

PrivatePixel · 08-06-2011, 01:12 PM

I have a general question regarding Windows 7: can I use the Windows 7 Professional SP1 64bit (Full) System Builder DVD for installation on a laptop?

Here's my situation:
My laptop came pre-installed with Windows 7 Home Premium. I swapped the original hard drive (Toshiba 5400rpm) with a WD Scorpio Black yesterday. I am trying to install Windows 7 on the new HDD, but the original Home Premium product key won't work (my guess is that the product key was tied to the original hardware, a limitation of OEM/system builder licenses: no hardware changes alowed). I tried using the 64-bit upgrade disc that I purchased through the university store, but the product key isn't recognized. Tried installing Windows XP Pro, but I end up with a BSOD during installation.

Bottom line: can I use the system builder (OEM) license on my laptop? I'm not planning on any other hardware changes, and I would prefer not having to spend ~$265 for a full license of Windows 7 Professional if I don't have to. Both Amazon and NewEgg has the OEM Professional license for ~$140 (I think that's the cheapest online price from a legitimate e-tailer).

08-06-2011, 01:12 PM	#1
PrivatePixel Blu-ray Knight Top contributor Member since:Aug 2009 4K collection:63 Blu-ray collection:999 DVD collection:73 iTunes collection:1 Trading Score:8	Windows 7 installation I have a general question regarding Windows 7: can I use the Windows 7 Professional SP1 64bit (Full) System Builder DVD for installation on a laptop? Here's my situation: My laptop came pre-installed with Windows 7 Home Premium. I swapped the original hard drive (Toshiba 5400rpm) with a WD Scorpio Black yesterday. I am trying to install Windows 7 on the new HDD, but the original Home Premium product key won't work (my guess is that the product key was tied to the original hardware, a limitation of OEM/system builder licenses: no hardware changes alowed). I tried using the 64-bit upgrade disc that I purchased through the university store, but the product key isn't recognized. Tried installing Windows XP Pro, but I end up with a BSOD during installation. Bottom line: can I use the system builder (OEM) license on my laptop? I'm not planning on any other hardware changes, and I would prefer not having to spend ~$265 for a full license of Windows 7 Professional if I don't have to. Both Amazon and NewEgg has the OEM Professional license for ~$140 (I think that's the cheapest online price from a legitimate e-tailer).

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