Product Key rejected BEFORE activation

[traceyw]

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

 

[pbcopter]

Wait until you have the system fully installed before putting in the product key. It can be done at the same time as activation and you have 30 days.

 

[gregrocker]

Once you've installed without the Product Key and are ready to activate, do the quick Option Three registry workaround in Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version to activate Upgrade version on a drive where the installer does not see a previous version.

 

[traceyw]

Hi

Thanks for your replies. I was trying to move the PC back to a 32-bit system at the request of my husband who has been trying to do something on his 64-bit system but was struggling and wondered if it had to be done on a 32-bit system. It just so happens that he has now found a workaround for his problem and has said to leave the PC as a 64-bit machine.

Sorry to have posted my message but he told me not to bother just after I had posted the message. Nevertheless it has taught me something about installing Win7 since I automatically assumed I wouldn't be able to get any further without entering my Product Key. Seems you can but I didn't try it. Anyway guys, thanks for your replies. Very much appreciated.

Tracey