Windows 7 32 to 64 bit

Hello All, I am new to this forum so please excuse any goofs in posting my question. I have a Dell Studio 1735 that had a Vista 32 bit OS. I recently installed the Windows 7 upgrade. Since installing the OS I discovered my laptop is 64 bit compatible and I want to do the “clean” install to the 64 bit. I purchased the software from Microsoft and it has the disc for 64 bit. When I try to run the disc it gives me the message; “This installation disc isn’t compatible with your version of Windows. To upgrade, you need the correct installation disc. For more information, check your computer’s system information. To install a new copy of Windows, restart (boot) your computer using the installation disc, then select Custom (advanced).”
Thanks for any help with my problem.

You can't upgrade from x86 to x64. You'll need to reboot, choose custom (advanced) delete all your partitions and allow 7 to create new partitions.

Frostmourne said:

You can't upgrade from x86 to x64. You'll need to reboot, choose custom (advanced) delete all your partitions and allow 7 to create new partitions.

This is what you need to do. However, if it is an upgrade disc, you will be required to call MS tech support to solve the activation problem.

Call 1-800-936-4900, and tell them you have an invalid product key error message. They will help. There are also posts on here as to how to perform a successful clean install with an upgrade disc, but I work for MS, and don't necessarily condone those methods.

My problem is that I can't get past the message I am receiving when the disc spins up. It thinks I need to use the 32 bit disc. Should I use the F12 key and force it to boot up on the disc? I don't think there is an issue with the product key.

What is the exact error message?

legirons said:

My problem is that I can't get past the message I am receiving when the disc spins up. It thinks I need to use the 32 bit disc. Should I use the F12 key and force it to boot up on the disc? I don't think there is an issue with the product key.

Hi and welcome

You dont need to use the 32 bit. you need to go into bios and make sure the dvd is checked so it can be booted from. then put the dvd in and boot to it. you will be installing from the 64bit dvd and should not ask you about the version.

Ley us know if it doesnt

I have the same dell

Kenn J+

You have to BOOT from the Windows 7 DVD, not run it from Vista.

Once booted, choose Custom install and as stated Delete all, Create New as you wish, then Format and install.

If you have the Recov disks that came with the computer, you can delete any Recovery partition that is there, but I would make recov disks first if you don't have them.

This is likely not an activation issue. Bypass the request for your key and upon connection to the internet, activate at Computer>Properties link. You may have to make a robo call to exchange numbers but it is unlikely since it will read the same hardware matching the key. It is blocking key now because it thinks you are trying to install a second copy on same computer.

gregrocker said:

You have to BOOT from the Windows 7 DVD, not run it from Vista.

Once booted, choose Custom install and as stated Delete all, Create New as you wish, then Format and install.

If you have the Recov disks that came with the computer, you can delete any Recovery partition that is there, but I would make recov disks first if you don't have them.

Alternatively, use Macrium Reflect Free to make an image and boot disc.

www.macrium.com/reflectfree.asp

zigzag3143, sounds like good advice, however since it is close to football game time, think I will wait until tomorrow.