Windows 7: An upgrade activation problem.

I went from XP Pro 32 bit to Windows 7 Pro 64 bit when I bought the MS discount pre-release offer.
I did not save my old copy of XP nor do I have any key numbers or other info from it.
The original install of Windows 7 went without a hitch.
The other night I had to install Windows 7 as a clean install on a new hard drive. The old one quite on me.

I was unable to activate using the key on the box from MS so I clicked next leaving the info box blank.
I installed a legal free copy of Office 2010 that my wife's employer, Child Protection Services, lets it employees use while they are employed by the state.
This was the second time for installing Office. It was on the drive that's shot. She's new there and doesn't need any negative attention.
I tried tonight to activate Windows 7 again and get nowhere. I followed the links for troubleshooting and am told I need to buy a new license key or pay somebody at MS to help me, which probably means they will tell me to buy a new license.
I tried to follow a link for the paid help to find out how much it would cost but it doesn't take me anywhere.
The XP license I had was an OEM license and I never had any problems with it. This Windows 7 license is not an OEM.

I haven't seen any phone number to call to get help.
I don't have much money. I'm disabled and live on a small fixed income.
Any advice on how I can fix this will be appreciated.
Thanks.
H.

When you run or boot the Windows 7 DVD it scans your system to see any other installed OS, which will allow the use of Upgrade version key upfront.

If it doesn't see another OS, it will reject the key but allow you to install anyway to activate later.

Once you do this, after install you must do a quick workaround to install to a new or wiped HD. The easiest is the Registry change - set a Restore point in case you goof: Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version

You can audit the Product Key for Office off of the other HD if it still can be read by installing and running Belarc Advisor: Belarc Advisor - Free software downloads and software reviews - CNET Download.com It should also be on the packaging if it is a legit copy of Office.

gregrocker,
Thanks for your help.
I have managed to get the hard drive with the already activated Windows 7 working.
It's buggy but usable for now.
Can I use my MS install disc directly onto this hard drive and get an activation?
If I can, then when I have it activated, I could clone it to my new hard drive, which I would wipe prior to using.
Also, I don't know what you meant by the 'Registry change'.
Thanks.
H.

If your not familiar with the registry change, then you could try calling MS at 1-800-936-5700. Just mention that you're still in the process of installing Windows 7 and they'll most probably connect you to the right department.

Since you skipped activation during the re- installation you need to go to the department of MS that assist in installing Windows and not to the activation department. That department can more than likely activate your copy of Windows 7 for you.

There is no need to call MS. If you install Windows 7 Upgrade version to a clean HD with no OS on it, just leave the Product Key blank during install. Then after install, do one of the workarounds given in the tutorial I posted above. The easiest one is the registry edit. Read how it's done in tutorial.

You are asking if you can clean install to another HD (yes) but then mention cloning. Please explain more fully what it is you want to do, and what you are asking.

Gregrocker,
Sorry it took so long to get back to you.
Thanks for all of your help.
The registry hack worked like a charm.
Have a great day.
Halfbaked

Glad it helped.