I've been looking for a Dell W7P laptop and noticed many of them are being sold without a hard drive or operating system at a good price. The advantage to me is I could install the exact HD I wanted, like a SSD with 128-256GB and not settle for the ones selling around $150-$200 with a standard HD. I have a Windows 7 Pro 64 bit DVD from my desktop. Could I make this work on a laptop like this: laptop selling for just $74?
If that DVD is a Microsoft retail DVD, you can "move", transfer, that OS from your desktop to your laptop. If you "copy" the OS onto the laptop, you will need to buy a license for that laptop copy. If that DVD is an OEM DVD, that will not work at all being installed into the laptop -- it will return the "not genuine" error and it will not function as you hope it will. Some sources indicate you can make that installation genuine by working with Microsoft, however, I think it entails buying a license. Others will have to weigh in.
I bought the OS DVD on Ebay a couple years ago for $20 to change my 32 bit Dell desktop into 64 bit. Disc says, Operating System Already Installed on Your Computer. Reinstallation DVD. This software is already installed on your computer. Use this DVD only to reinstall the OS on a Dell PC. So no go for a Dell laptop? Even if there is a COA on the laptop?
Even if you get it installed, your OS installation will return a "non-genuine" and certain functions will not work or not be available. Others here might desire to weigh in on the "fallout". That COA is married to the previous owner's computer and will do you absolutely no good.
First off one should understand what Microsoft considers "Retail".
This will help the understanding.
Windows License Types Explained
Unless you have a (what M/S calls a Retail version) you can not use your COA key on another computer or motherboard. It is locked, legally to the original computer it was first activated on.
Note:
Just because one buys Windows 7 in a retail store does not make it a Retail version of Windows 7.
You most likely have a OEM/SLP or OEM Builders addition and neither are transferable to another computer or different motherboard legally.
Jack
The description of the item claims it does. However, I would contact the seller to verify that it actually does. If so, it can be used to authorize the same version of Windows 7 (Pro, according to the item description). I would also check with Dell to make sure you can get a replacement battery for that laptop since the description states the battery may or may not be in good condition.
I'll have to ask the seller. But I guess I'll look for one that is complete and ready to use. Doesn't look like they are priced all that much more.
Long story short
If the Motherboard has NOT been changed, and you use the same OS version as quoted on the COA you will be fine, thats why the codes there, if the re-install media is like for like, Dell to Dell, it should auto activate..
The install media is not a big problem
Roy
note you lost $20, 32/64 use the same key
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