Upgrade CPU & MOBO in Windows 7

[jdccroad]

I looked through the installation questions and didn’t see this one.
I currently have Windows 7 64 (3 pack upgrade) installed on a dual core pc. I am upgrading to a quad core cpu and moving my dual core to my basement pc. My question is when I install the new cpu & mobo on my unit upstairs (with all existing drives in place) will Windows 7 have an issue with it? Will it see the new board & cpu and try use one of my 2 remaining licenses. I do want to put Windows 7 on my basement pc, but not just yet. I know in the past sometimes when I upgraded my hardware in XP it would force me to call Microsoft for a new key. Has anyone dealt with this yet?

 

[Jonathan_King]

I strongly suspect it will ask you to reactivate it, but if you put in your existing key, that should work. No need to use up another license key, your current one is still good.

If it gives you any trouble, give Microsoft a call: Microsoft Volume Licensing - Activation Centers

 

[richc46]

Never had to reactivate in a situation like yours, but based upon the questions of other members, the new MOBO, will require a call.

But it is not a problem, I have seen at least a dozen posts asking about the reactivation call; each poster showing concern. The result in every situation was that they were reactivated and they commented on the professional, polite attitude of the Rep. Remember, MS, has to do this, to protect their invesment in R&D, but they, also, know, if they give you a hard time with the reactivation, customers will be reluctant to use Windows in the future.

Just one little hint. When asked for your key, do not give it. In fact make sure the box allowing automatic activation is not checked. After you are installed and have your programs and everything, just the way you want it, activate at that point. After activation, make a system image. You will never need to activate, again. You have 30 days to activate after install.

If you insert your key number when first asked and you do not like the install, you have to install with the key, again. Even though the Rep will be cooperative, after a number of calls they will start to ask questions. They will require more than 3 (some say 6) before trouble begins, but why ask for trouble

Enjoy your new rig, sounds really nice.

Good Luck

EDIt: Jonathan Real nice phone listing.

 

[wallyinnc]

Just a couple of cents more: the new mobo will make the OS think it is in a new computer (which it is), so it will require activation. But as long as you own a retail license you can transfer it from one computer to another as many times as you want. You just can't have it in two computers at the same time.

 

[gregrocker]

Sometimes Win7 will start up on new hardware fine.

It swaps out all of the related drivers, requesting several restarts.

But if it will start, I have not seen any residual performance problems.

Strangely, some report they have not been prompted for a new key afterward. However, I always change out the key at Computer>Properties to reset the hardware signature. As suggested it may require a call to MS.

If Win7 will not start on your new hardware, then your options are Paragon Adaptive Restore, or clean reinstall.

 

[jdccroad]

Thanks for the quick replies and advice.
After thinking it through a little more I decided to move the Boot HD with the cpu & mobo. I figured it would be easier to reconfigure Outlook, iTunes, TiVo, etc on a new hard drive with a clean install of 7.
Since I was going from an Intel board to an Asus I don’t want to have any leftover drivers from my intel board on my new OS.
Performed the swap last night & did not have to reactivate or call in. The system did notice a configuration change had occurred, and asked me to re validate my copy of 7 with the Windows Genuine Advantage app.
Added specs for my new system as requested.
Thanks again.

 

[richc46]

You are welcome, I am sure that you are going to enjoy your new computer. You have given it a lot of thought and that is always the best way to start.