Solved How do I install OEM Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 32bit?

[jlward2012]

I just purchased Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 32bit and it appears that it is an OEM System Builder Pack. I want to install this OS on my brand new Seagate 1TB hard drive that I just bought to replace a failing Hitachi 250GB hard drive.

I have not yet opened the OS package because the language about being a "system builder" confused me.

What are the steps I should follow? Did I make a mistake with this purchase?

Thanks in advance for any and all help!

 

[gregrocker]

If you previously had WIn7 on that old HD then there is no reason you cannot reinstall it with the same Product Key. You can reinstall Win7 in either bit-version as often as you want and are only restricted from moving it to another PC if it is builder's or factory OEM.

If this is the Compaq in your specs or another factory OEM WIn7 then everything you need is provided here to get a perfect Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7. You don't need to use the new license, so you can take it back if unopened or use it elsewhere so you don't waste a perfectly good license which lasts for the life of your PC to reinstall WIn7 as often as you want, in either bit version, and after changing any hardware except the mobo.

 

[jlward2012]

If you previously had WIn7 on that old HD

Thanks for the quick response!

My current OS is Windows Vista SP2 32bit version. Sorry, I should have mentioned that in my initial post.

What do I do now?

 

[whs]

In that case you need the new license. The OEM versions imply 2 things:

1. You can only install it on 1 system and cannot move it to another system. But on this 1 system you can reinstall it as often as you want.

2. In case of problems you are on your own. Microsoft gives you no tech support. But there is always this forum for help.

I only buy OEM licenses - because those are cheaper.

PS: You could have also gone with a Vista upgrade to Windows 7 (if still available). But that is a lot messier and not cheaper. I think you did the right thing.

 

[jlward2012]

In that case you need the new license. The OEM versions imply 2 things:

1. You can only install it on 1 system and cannot move it to another system. But on this 1 system you can reinstall it as often as you want.

2. In case of problems you are on your own. Microsoft gives you no tech support. But there is always this forum for help.

I only buy OEM licenses - because those are cheaper.

PS: You could have also gone with a Vista upgrade. But that is a lot messier and not cheaper. I think you did the right thing.

Thanks for the response. Where can I purchase the license and how much do you think I will have to pay?

 

[whs]

I am confused. I thought you just bought a Windows 7 OEM license. They usually go for $99.99 for a single Home Premium.

Newegg.com - windows 7 oem

 

[jlward2012]

I am confused. I thought you just bought a Windows 7 OEM license. They usually go for $99.99 for a single Home Premium.

Okay, just to let you know, you're dealing with an idiot.

Is buying the Windows 7 OS the same as buying the Windows 7 OEM license?

 

[Ranger4]

If you have an OEM disc as you mentioned in your first post then that is licensed for installation & can be used without having to buy another license.

Just follow what gregrocker said in post 2 for a clean install. Also read whs's reply concerning getting help if you have a problem.

 

[jlward2012]

If you have an OEM disc as you mentioned in your first post then that is licensed for installation & can be used without having to buy another license.

Just follow what gregrocker said in post 2 for a clean install.

Thank you, sir - this idiot is definitely grateful not to have to shell out more dineros!

 

[gregrocker]

Follow the same steps in Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7 so you know you haven't forgotten to back up anything, know how to handle drivers in Win7, and make sure to delete all partitions during the booted Custom Install, using the Drive Options shown in Steps 7 and 8 of the illustrated install steps in Clean Install Windows 7. I would make one Install partition unless you have another partition scheme in mind.

Feel free to ask back any questions as you go. We will help you get it perfect if that's what you want.

 

[AddRAM]

I am confused. I thought you just bought a Windows 7 OEM license. They usually go for $99.99 for a single Home Premium.

Okay, just to let you know, you're dealing with an idiot.

Is buying the Windows 7 OS the same as buying the Windows 7 OEM license?

Yes, you get a key when you purchase windows, it`s usually in with the packaging or in the box, on the box etc.

It`s illegal to sell windows without a key.

Install the oem just as you would a retail version, there`s no difference.

 

[jlward2012]

To all who responded - thanks for the excellent advice and assistance! My hardware upgrade and Windows 7 install went very well. Much appreciated!