Clean Format and Windows 7 Upgrade

[Djwoody]

Hi.
I am about to purchase a new HDD for my laptop.
Once installed I am going to perform a clean install of Windows 7 from my Upgrade DVD.

As I have already used the product key in my previous installion, will I need to buy another one or activation? Not sure how it works.

My laptop originally came with Vista and I upgraded to Genuine Windows 7 upgrade a few years ago.

Many thanks
Chris

 

[ignatzatsonic]

I upgraded to Genuine Windows 7 upgrade a few years ago.

Do you have the Product Key for the Windows 7 upgrade? A Vista key won't help you much.

If so, you can reuse it and won't have to buy anything.

 

[Djwoody]

I upgraded to Genuine Windows 7 upgrade a few years ago.

Do you have the Product Key for the Windows 7 upgrade? A Vista key won't help you much.

If so, you can reuse it and won't have to buy anything.

Yes, I have the original Win 7 packaging with key.

 

[NoelDP]

In that case, use the instructions from here...
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/31402-clean-install-upgrade-windows-7-version.html

 

[Djwoody]

Are all laptop hard drives the same dimensions?
I have a 320gb drive in my Sony VGN-FW21E and am looking to install a Seagate SSHD 2.5" 1TB drive.

 

[NoelDP]

Almost all laptops use 2.5" drives, yes. (some small-form-factor ones use smaller SSD drives, but there is none that use smaller HD's for the simple reason that there is no such thing )
Desktop drives are almost all 3.5" drives - except where speed is crucial, so they may use 2.5" SSDs