New
#1
fried MB
If I replace my MB, then will I be able to use the same HD and OS?
Or will it be void and I have to pay for another OS?
fried MB
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New #2
It depends on whether your PC has an OEM Key or not.
Try this Guide: (Stop at step 3 or 4, no need to go further)
License Information for Windows 7
If it says Retail, you have a much better chance, if its OEM, you can try but ultimately you will need to call Microsoft and they will possibly transfer the key. If they are unwilling to transfer the OEM key, you will indeed have to buy a new key.
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New #3
Was Windows preinstalled by the OEM or did you install it? Replace it with what? Same make and model motherboard from the manufacturer, or a new off the shelf motherboard?
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New #4
Windows was installed by the OEM.
I have not replaced it yet
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New #5
I've never had an issue getting MS to transfer the license when I've had to replace the Mobo or any other part for that matter, just have to call them, explain what happened, and hope they will transfer it for you.
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New #6
Another thing one must consider is what fried your motherboard.
They normally don't smoke themselves. Your power supply in your specs is (?) That tell us nothing.
Normally a pre-built system comes with a bottom shelf power supply.
If it was my system I would not replace the motherboard without replacing the power supply and looking for other problems that made the motherboard flunk the smoke test.
If your computer system came with Windows 7 Pro installed it's a very good chance you will have to buy Windows 7 again.
What does the Microsoft sticker on your computer indicate what Windows 7 is installed?
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New #8
Factory Windows 7 OEM installs activate against a SLIC table in the BIOS. If you substitute that motherboard with an off the shelf model from another manufacturer it will fail activation. To keep your factory activation you would have to replace it with an identical motherboard with the custom OEM BIOS. OEM licenses are not transferable to different hardware. If you use the code on the COA sticker it will almost certainly fail activation and require you to try and activate by phone. If you do that you can then plead your case with Microsoft. Don't be surprised if they don't let you transfer the OEM license though. They are not obligated to do it.
Another issue is, if you do go with a different motherboard, you may have driver issues. Worst case scenario is it BSOD on the first boot up or won't boot up at all. Windows is going to try and load the drivers for the old hardware.
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New #9
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