OEM MCE?

gpasdf

Junior Member
Sep 8, 2006
12
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My first build. I guess I need the OS CD's all my computers are prebuilt.
I was going to get Windows MCE OEM version $109 on newegg with upgrade coupon. Should this be OK for first time builder (i.e. oem version) ? Should I consider Pro at $139 with vista upgrade? will the vista upgrade versions be the same?

Microsoft Windows XP Pro SP2b 1pk w/Upgrade Coupon for Vista - OEM
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16832116175
vs
Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 SP2b w/Upgrade Coupon for Vista - OEM
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16832116171

Thanks

edit- for others interested, found some info here:
http://forums.anandtech.com/messageview...atid=34&threadid=1969566&enterthread=y

FWIW
components:
CORSAIR TWIN2X2048-6400C4 (2G)
GIGABYTE GA-965P-DS3 P965 775
C2D E6600
pny 7900gs
zalman 9500
seagate 320g HDD SATA II
antec sonata 2 case
 

imported_KING

Member
Dec 1, 2006
34
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0
I don't mean to hijack your thread, but I've been wondering the same thing in regards to whether an OEM is a good choice. I've heard that you can only install it once without having to call Microsoft and sort it out, and you must keep it on one system only.

And i suppose I can answer one of your questions... The XP Pro should upgrade to the Vista Business version, while MCE will upgrade to Home Premium.
 

MagnusTheBrewer

IN MEMORIAM
Jun 19, 2004
24,122
1,594
126
OEM versions are exactly the same as regular editions. Side stepping the legalese, the intent of the EULA is to enforce one OS for each system. In practical experience, I have never had a problem with reactivation due to upgrades, rebuilds, replacement of a computer.
 

RebateMonger

Elite Member
Dec 24, 2005
11,586
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The Vista upgrades will be different.
MCE will upgrade to Vista Home Premium.
XP Professional will upgrade to Vista Business.

Vista Home Premium has MCE-like stuff. Vista Business does not.
 

imported_KING

Member
Dec 1, 2006
34
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0
Originally posted by: MagnusTheBrewer
OEM versions are exactly the same as regular editions. Side stepping the legalese, the intent of the EULA is to enforce one OS for each system. In practical experience, I have never had a problem with reactivation due to upgrades, rebuilds, replacement of a computer.

So, basically as long as you arent using the software on 2 computers at once, and only one, you should be able to upgrade, replace, and reinstall without problems. As long as it is only used on one computer?