New
#1
Product Key rejected BEFORE activation
Hi
I have been trying to install Win7 32-bit (upgrade version) using the double install method (as described in a tutorial on this site) on a spare PC which previously had 64-bit on it. All goes well until I reach the screen where I have to enter my Product Key and uncheck Automatic Activation. Now the copy of Win7 I've had on the PC is a family version valid for three PCs (this PC is the last of the three still in use as the others having become redundant). Anyway I entered the key, checked I'd entered it right, and pressed Next.
After a short wait a message appeared saying the Product Key is invalid and to re-enter it. I therefore checked the entered key numerous times but could find nothing wrong with my entry and now I cannot go any further with the installation. The question is: what the heck do I do now as it IS a genuine Microsoft copy of Win7. I've heard of Product Keys being rejected at Activation time but never at this point in the installation.
It did occur to me that since my source DVD was an upgrade version perhaps I need to have a copy of windows currently on the SSD. I therefore recovered what I had just backed up onto the SSD and tried an upgrade. But no! the one I was trying to install was older than the one already on the SSD and Win7 just would not install. At this point in the game I'm just at a loss as to what I can do. Therefore any help would be very much appreciated. Thank you.
Tracey