Imaging Windows 7 OEM Build

Morning guys/girls,

I will try to be as brief and precise as possible.

Our company does not have a Windows 7 VLK. Instead we have been instructed to build our laptops and use the OEM key provided with the machine. The model of laptop we are using is HP 8440P.

After receiving our first machine last week, I have configured it to a decent basline standard. I then imaged it using Symantec Ghost - everything went fine.

The problem comes when deploying the image onto another HP 8440p (when it arrives) - If i deploy my image, the product key installed, will be the same one from original laptop (not the new one that comes with the new laptop).

To avoid any legalities and to abide by all MS agreements in place, is there a way I can change the Product Key from the image to the new OEM key provided with the new laptop?

I understand Sysprepping is an option however, I have configured and installed too much on my current image that makes sysprepping a pain in the a**. I have also read a couple of Win7 Sysprep guides, which have led to a few problems.

Is there any other EASIER way or tool (magicjellybean was perfect for XP) where I can simply change/swap the OEM key with the new valid OEM key?

Thanks and appreciate any input,

richc46 said:

Welcome

After reading so many posts where the Origianal Poster has no regard or respect for the EULA, it is a pleasure to help you.

Product Key Number - Change

I have seen the above work for Vista and Windows 7 machines but the same does not work for OEM builds. There is no "Change Product Key" option in the system menu.

My image was taken was from an Activated OEM build. Im guessing, it's not possible to change the key once it's activated.

Rt. click My Computer and select properties.

At the bottom of the window click change product key.

My Windows 7 is an OEM installation. I still have the option to change the key.

electrotune1200 said:

Rt. click My Computer and select properties.

At the bottom of the window click change product key.

My Windows 7 is an OEM installation. I still have the option to change the key.

Hey Friends,

I do not have the "Change Product Key" option whatsoever. I just see the key is activated.

The system you are on now... Was it imaged with Ghost, or is it a stock installation of 7?

I found this info posted on a forum after doing a quick Google search.

1. Click on start and type command (cmd) with run as administrator option or
open elevated command prompt

• Click on Windows 7 Start Button
• Go to All Programs-> Accessories
• Now right on Command Prompt and select “Run as Administrator” from context menu.
• This should bring elevated command prompt mode with full Administrators rights

2. Now type following command

“slmgr.vbs -ipk <insert your new product key here>”

3. To activate windows after changing the key, run “slmgr.vbs -ato”

done


Link to the source Change Windows 7 product key - Operating Systems

Rather than doing a fresh install using the media that came with the laptop, i customised the pre-installed OEM version so yes this was the stock build. I also tried the command as mentioned above - no joy.

you could always use one of the windows 7 loaders.. I'm pretty sure you'd be the only one to ever download for a legal purpose

What is a Windows 7 loader, and where could I find one please?