Upgrade without Windows Anytime Upgrade

[nonalpha]

I want to install a retail copy of Windows 7 Ultimate x64 on a laptop that came with OEM W7 Home Premium x64. I have dozens of applications installed and don't want to do a clean install. But when I select "Upgrade" after running the setup program (within the running Home Premium installation), I get a message that says I must exit and select Windows Anytime Upgrade which directs me to purchase a new product id. I've already purchased two copies of Ultimate and don't want another. Is it possible to do an upgrade without Anytime Upgrade? Thank you.

 

[gregrocker]

Yes, you can insert the Ultimate Product Key into Anytime Upgrade and it will unlock the extra features just like an Anytime key: Windows Anytime Upgrade - How to - Windows 7 Forums

I would save a Win7 backup image first of Home Premium so you have an easy path back if you decide you want to use your Ultimate Product Key elsewhere - retail keys can migrate anywhere you want for life as long as they're only installed on one machine at a time.

Likewise save a Win7 backup image of Ultimate after it's unlocked to use in place of reinstalls so you don't have to double reinstall: Backup Complete Computer - Create an Image Backup