OEM/Retail?

Booky

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Jan 30, 2001
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What is the difference between OEM WIN98SE and Retail WIN98SE? I ask because I found OEM with book and CD and all for $35 and I haven't found the retail yet but I bet it is $100+. Is there even a difference? Is there any reason I shouldn't buy a OEM WIN98SE?

Someday I will stop asking all the questions!
 
G

Guest

Guest
basically a box..

***check the jumpers 1st then check em again***
 

jobe

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Dec 31, 2007
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With OEM you do not get any support from the manufacturer
( like if you bought a OEM AMD Processor AMD would not speak with you, you'd have to deal with the place of purchase ).
Whether to buy OEM or retail really depends on how much help you need.
I have had problems dealing with OEM and the stores disagreeing with my judgement and not taking there parts back.
So sometimes its worth the extra bit to buy retail.

jObE
 

Booky

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OK I understand that part, but im refering to OEM WIN98SE operating system. Is there anyway this could do me wrong? Its kinda hard for it to fail isn't it? Unless I acedently take a lighter to the CD :-()

Someday I will stop asking all the questions!
 

Arrow

Splendid
Dec 31, 2007
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Legally, a system builder is not authorized to sell you the OEM version unless you buy what resembles to be or is a system from them. There's basically no difference between the two; it's just that you'll be getting support from your OEM and you don't get a nice fancy box with all those extra cards inside.

Rob
Please visit <b><A HREF="http://www.ncix.com/shop/index.cfm?affiliateid=319048" target="_new">http://www.ncix.com/shop/index.cfm?affiliateid=319048</A></b>
 

Booky

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Um if its not leagle, then how can they advertise on pricewatch.com? Im not argueing, just curoius. Do they actually expect me to buy a whole PC from that little advertisment of $35 for WIN98SE OEM full version?

Someday I will stop asking all the questions!
 

Arrow

Splendid
Dec 31, 2007
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If they're labelling it "OEM full version," I guess that they are trying to make it sound as complete as possible to attract customers. I guess that they would call the other the "boxed version" then. Advertising for $35 may just be one of the ways they attract people to purchase from them. Some may sell it to you for $35 even if you don't buy a system, but their company is taking a legal risk for the extra business.

Rob
Please visit <b><A HREF="http://www.ncix.com/shop/index.cfm?affiliateid=319048" target="_new">http://www.ncix.com/shop/index.cfm?affiliateid=319048</A></b>