nope, it really did take the install from the dvd.
I think the major problem to start was that initially, something went screwy and the laptop kept shutting off. I finally had to restart it from a menu black screen that had 2 options - start windows 7 or start with windows recovery or something worded similar.
Neither option would let it start without dying, so I put the recovery/repair disc in and that allowed it to start.
Then, I went to computer, to the dvd drive and opened up the dvd and chose the setup option and from there went and installed windows 7.
When it was finished, there were no additional programs other than what comes with it nor were there any of the Acer stuff that came along from the factory. Just windows 7.
From there I began updates and after that, installed the printer. And then, when I began to do more, that's when I noticed that the keyboard wasn't working and the windows experience scores were really off.
At this point, I'm off to do the regular Acer restore - not that I want all that extra stuff nor do I think their install is a good one (based on the opinion that there was the law suit that involved our model - which regarded the fact that the windows 7 version and recovery options were missing components. Maybe also the problems we'd been experiencing the past few months with it running slow and not responding and the display driver stopped responding and all as well???)
That is why we really wanted to do just a plain windows 7 install but apparently, that version must have picked out drivers for some things that maybe don't match what is in our system?
I think sometimes Windows picks out what it thinks is best for components installed???
Perhaps that is why the retry with the dvd led to the laptop continually just shutting off rather than booting directly from the dvd despite the fact that I went in and made sure our system was set up to boot from the dvd?
So, for now, just going to do the Acer recovery but THIS time around, I'm going to make sure that I have a list of all the devices (manufacturer and model and such). I'll have the windows experience scores and anything else information wise that you all think that we might need to assemble prior to the next attempt.
Then, after the holidays, we're going to give it another go round. Absolutely going to make another DVD copy to use and hopefully, will have another computer in the house when we begin the process so that I can hop online and call upon you all if need be.
You've all been a really wonderful helps, such dears, to put your time and thoughts into this for us and it is truly appreciated. I'd give you more of the positive feedback but the site is telling me that I've clicked on each of you enough and should share with other members, LOL. (or however it is worded, but you know what I mean)
Thanks again for being so sweet and awesome!!!
You all rock!!!!