OEM and copyright question

[Scrapster]

I just bought an operating system cd from a company. It is the OEM cd and indicates it is "intended for resale with new pc/hardware." I didn't buy any hardware. Actually I just finished building a system for the first time and needed an operating system. This deal was the cheapest I could find. My question, am I using this software legitly? I've always been confused on why things are sold OEM instead of retail and if any of this OEM stuff can be legally used w/o using it with new pc/hardware. Does anyone know what is behind the OEM thing?

Scrapster

 

[Bryan]

Hmm.... might want to call Microsoft and ask them at 1-800-RU-LEGIT, without necessarily ratting out the seller. If you bought it, and are worried about its legality, it's the only way you can tell for sure.

 

[Soybomb]

I'd say you're legal but if ms found out they might not appreciate the reseller selling an os with no hardware.
Then bill gates will come in with his thugs and be all "buy him out boys!" The place will then trashed (you have to watch the simpsons okay!

 

[Prodigy^]

It's very very normal to get an OEM package, especially with OS'. I went down and asked for Win98 once, and they didn't even ask - I was given an OEM version with CD, small manual and some other guarantee stuff / proof of purchase. Call the cops and they won't bother doing anything about it. Call Microsoft and they won't bother doing anything about it. Tell the store manager and he won't bother doing anything about it. End of story

 

[AndrewR]

Actually, it's a legal license which was sold illegally. Interesting question -- not sure if it's kosher or not for you to keep it. I'd take Bryan's suggestion and see what they say.

"You see, a friend of mine bought this OEM copy and wanted me to find out..."

 

[Fearlss1]

I am in the computer business. oem simpily is original manf. packaging. hehe you just dont pay extra for the pretty packaging. LOL anyway yes u will be legal, however you are only supposed to get discounted rates with Os's when you purchase a new hard drive or new system. (ex...) win ME runs $199 normally however with purchase with a new harddrive or new system you pay $100
heheh I hope thats what you are asking.,,