Unable to install Windows 7 64

[kevinkme]

I had previously been running Vista 32, however after reading up a bit (obviously not as much as I should have) I decided to upgrade my old machine with 4 gb of DDR2 (up from 2gb) and Win 7 64 bit. As can be seen in my system specs, my processor is a Pentium D 3.2 (840 i believe), and going on a thread a I read stating that a dual core can handle 64 bit I got that version. Install has been a nightmare, first it would give me an error that (according to forums) is a result of bad memory, tried everything with that (swapping out to my old memory that was fine, going from 4 to 2 gb... no dice) Next I took the drives out, and installed win 7 on them using a different machine (I have a much newer/nicer build as well, this is a second machine). Install went fine, so i moved the drives back to the other machine and I'm getting a BSOD on start up (and its a quick BSOD, cant even read it, flashes a second then reboots)... every time. I am a mouse click from ordering the 32 bit version but dont want to drop another $100 only to find out that maybe thats not my problem. Given that the machine was running fine with vista on it (even with the new memory) I am inclined to think this is not faulty hardware, just maybe incompatible software (the 64 bit version that is). Anyone able to give me a little more concrete insight?

 

[DocBrown]

Is your 4gb memory a match set, Same manufacturer, same speed, etc ?

 

[kevinkme]

Yes.

 

[DocBrown]

Have you run a memory test on each ram stick individually ?

:ar: Memtest86.com - Memory Diagnostic

 

[kevinkme]

Memory has been tested, switched out with entirely different memory, reduced from 4 to 2 gb with the new memory... I'm pretty confident its not the memory. Win 7 is installed on the HDD in this machine but only because I moved the HDD to my other machine to install it then tried to move it back. I think the problem is that maybe my system cant run the 64 bit version but I purchased the disk OEM from newegg, and it doesnt have the 32 bit ver on it (so ill have to buy it again for $99). Just want to get some feedback before I do that, would hate to buy 32bit and have same crap happen.

 

[DocBrown]

OEM version is tied to your hardware, so it might be because your install to HD & then moved it to other computer & it is scanning for the original hardware you installed it to

 

[kevinkme]

I didnt think it would do that until I verified the version... i had the machine offline (internet) when I did the install... if not, my bad and that sucks lol. Either way I need to get another copy then and I'll probably go with the 32 bit to be safe unless you really dont think thats the issue???

 

[sandman]

Try a repair install with the HD that you installed the W7 on from the other system in the old 940 system and see if that helps with the install, probably can't find drivers for that system because it was installed on the newer system if i am making myself clear.

 

[DocBrown]

I have not done any OEM version installs, so I don't know exactly when it ties it to the hardware. You might try a clean install with only one ram stick. But being connected to the internet for updates of drivers, etc during install. Don't enter the serial/key code ( leave Blank) , it should be good for 30 days. Check out our questions thread


:ar: http://www.sevenforums.com/installa...-use-help-installation-issues.html#post300660

 

[kevinkme]

Also, what would stop me from formatting the drive completely in the other machine, then trying a clean install again on the one im trying to upgrade?

 

[housry23]

Your 64-bit key is compatible with 32-bit Windows 7. It doesn't matter which one is installed it will activate either one as long as only one is installed at a time. You probably could download the bits somewhere and use your key to activate. If you have problems activating use the phone activation and speak to someone after trying automatic phone activation. Explain to them what happened and I am sure they will assist you in activating your OS. They are not out to get someone and make them spend more money, they are just strict on piracy and you have a legal version. Don't buy a new one for 32-bit!!!!!!

PS. I looked up your CPU and the Pentium D's are 64-bit compatible. You should be able to install Windows 7 x64 on your machine. You may need to update your BIOS before continuing.

 

[Bare Foot Kid]

Hello kevinkme, welcome to Seven Forums!




Have a look at the link below to see what issues you may have with Windows 7, if any at all.


Find out if your PC can run Windows 7

 

[gregrocker]

You do not need to buy another Win7 to get 32 bit. You are entitled under the EULA to use either 32-or 64-bit with each license and can switch back and forth any time you want as long as you're only using one at a time.

You have only limited yourself by buying OEM since it become locked to the hardware and cannot be moved to another machine without an exception for good cause being granted by MS activation agents. So if you have the ability to return it, then it would only need to be to buy retail instead to get more flexibility. If you have any Vista/XP there then you qualify for Upgrade version which is about the same price.

What you need to do is find a 32 bit installer for your version. It doesn't matter if it is OEM since that is in the Product Key and not the installer.

Take the HD back to the machine you installed Win7 on and in Device Manager remove all the major drivers. Do not restart when prompted, just shut down and move HD back to problem machine to see if it then starts.

Next wipe the HD first before install using this method: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/91339-ssd-hdd-optimize-windows-reinstallation.html At the end of the partitioning commands given add Select Partition 1, Format, then Active.