Ugrading System, some questions

[cmcghee358]

So I'm thinking of upgrading my AM2/AM2+/AM3 motherboard and RAM. But I have a student copy of Win7 64 bit. I assume that this is the equivalent of an OEM version. I know that when you change your motherboard, the OEM OS flags as non-authenticated.

I've heard rumors you can get another activation key, does anyone have a link or phone number for this? I tried at microsoft.com, but for a software manufacturer their website is pretty convoluted.


2nd question:

My friend will be upgrading his computer as well, and would like to get a student copy of Win7(currently finishing his masters in business management). I can't seem to find that either, if anyone has a link that'd be awesome

While this post is up I'm going to keep digging through google. Thanks for the help!

 

[MadAdmiral]

I believe the student copy was the full version, just sold at a discount. I could be mistaken, but I don't think it's an OEM version.

You can't get a second key. You can get them to reactivate the one you have, but in my opinion, it's unethically and borderline illegal.

The link is Win741.com.

 

[cmcghee358]

Yeah I found that link before, you click all the way through it and it takes you to Microsoft Office.

As for the unethical thing. I think I can see both sides of the case. They say that the motherboard is the heart of the computer, and by changing it you at that point are replacing the computer.

I feel that if I did a complete rebuild I could agree, but I just want to get a nice 890FX motherboard, and in turn have to get new DDR3 RAM.

/shrug

It's a gray area imo.

 

[MadAdmiral]

Its entirely possible that Microsoft has discontinued the student price. I haven't seen anything about it that's recent.

 

[cmcghee358]

I think it appears it has, which is a shame because I talked it up to my bud. But the good news is he's getting an AMD 965 for $136 @ Fry's and I talked him into the GA-890FXA-UD5 rather than the ASUS Crosshair IV 890FX. So I think he has saved enough for Win7 anyways...

But the whole OS dilemma I have might prevent me from upgrading...

 

[cmcghee358]

Quote from microsoft concerning OEM software:

If the motherboard is replaced because it is defective, you do not need to acquire a new operating system license for the PC as long as the replacement motherboard is the same make/model or the same manufacturer's replacement/equivalent, as defined by the manufacturer's warranty.

So in my situation I would have to buy a new license. But if my motherboard failed, and I couldnt find the exact same kind to upgrade, I could get a new license.

 

[MadAdmiral]

Exactly. That's why I consider it shady to upgrade the motherboard and ask for the code to be reactivated.

I really do think that the student version wasn't an OEM version. I'd try it in a different build and see what happens. It won't have any impact on the current build or future uses.

 

[cmcghee358]

Well I bought the motherboard, I guess I'll see tomorrow how it goes. Thanks for the help Admiral.

Side note, still showing you bronze. In fact when you're logged in on the right side it even says "Bronze Expert"

 

[MadAdmiral]

Yeah, there's an issue with the separation between the US and UK sides of the site. I've brought it up in the Bugs section and they seem to think it'll go away with the next upgrade.

 

[cirslevin]

student version is not OEM, and is not bond by motherboard change.

 

[cmcghee358]

Oooo thank you cirslevin! I bought my Motherboard and memory today thinkin of installing tonight if the student version agrees with me.

 

[cmcghee358]

Best answer selected by cmcghee358.

 

[cmcghee358]

Student Win7 isn't OEM after all. Changed my motherboard and RAM with no issues! Thanks for the help Admiral.

What a relief I didn't have to buy another Windows 7!