question on installing Vista OEM

[jackc]

If it tells me it can't validate the product key, is that likely to mean it is already in use, or could it be something else?

 

[alexjdb]

Either the key is already activated on another installation, or you've got a manufacturer OEM Vista cd (for example, a Dell vista cd will only install on a Dell computer).

 

[jackc]

It was a system builder disk that I bought from ebay that was supposedly new. So there's no point in trying to call Microsoft then?

 

[MM07]

Try the activating by phone method. I'm not sure if you can do this for Vista as you can for XP.

If you choose this, you will get a very long number sequence. You call MS and get an automated system. You type in your long number. They will give you another long number.

You then use their long number on the activation screen and you're good to go.

When I say long, I mean at least 28 numbers for each.

 

[jackc]

I never got to the point where it gave me options for activation, it rejected the product key and I don't think there was any option to continue installation. Did I miss something there? (I was trying to install with Boot Camp, as I recall it just had an option to enter the product key and hit next, where it told me it was invalid). I had to power down to return to my Mac.

Thanks for any help, I'm trying to figure out if I need to return it or if there's any chance to get a new product key.

 

[MM07]

My bad. I guess I should of read your post better.