and what is the difference between a OEM version and a Full retail version?Thanks
2006-12-05 01:50:39 · 5 answers · asked by vicki3537 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Other - Hardware
OEM versions usually refer to hardware. OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. Basically its whatever your buying, without all the cool extra things that a retail package would have. In the case of windows, OEM means its the windows installation Cd that comes with a new computer.
Full retail version is what you buy on the shelf, more expensive...
OEM is what you get with a new computer, sorta less expensive in the long run
Both are the same, and if its a legal copy of windows, then you will not have any problems doing it. I actually use a dell OEM windows on my machine (HP) with absolutely no problems! It will work even better for you since it sounds like you're using the same machine it was designed for, just a new hard drive.
Hope this answers your question! Glad I could help, Good luck, email me if you have any serious problems!
2006-12-05 02:06:16 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
The other difference between OEM & retail is that OEM is legally licenced for usage only on the unit that it was originally installed on. It cannot legally be tranfered to another PC....regardless of the brand.
What some manufacturers do is add a BIOS recognition file in the operating system setup CD so that people cannot install it on a competitor's product.
Personally, I've encountered some OEM XP Pro CDs that install on any PC you want. It's really a crap shoot.
If all you did was replace a defective hard drive on the PC that has the OEM licence ... there is no problem. It will install just fine & (in case you care) will be fully legal as well.
If you're not sure what PC the OEM version comes from ... it may or may not install.
HINT : If it does install & XP activation asks to to call them just say that you had to replace the mainboard on your PC. This will justify (in their eyes) why an OEM licence is being applied to a BIOS their licincing algorythm does not recognixe .... they'll give an activation code over the phone.
regards,
Philip T
regards,
Philip T
2006-12-05 10:47:38 · answer #2 · answered by Philip T 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
OEM in an acronym for Original Equipment Manufacturer. The only difference between this and a retail version is the OEM does not come with instructions, accessories or expensive packaging which allows it to be sold at a cheaper price. Other then this there is no difference.
Also don't forget brands such as Dell, Compaq and such versions of windows that come with them do not work on any other computer then the brand it came with. This is a proprietary reason so that they make you use their equipment and not a competitor.
2006-12-05 10:02:38 · answer #3 · answered by omvg1 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Actually the OEM version of Windows ME from Dell (the label was clearly Dell) would not install on my friends PC that wasn't Dell, so be careful.
2006-12-05 10:00:21 · answer #4 · answered by Glenn 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
u can use da OEM version win xp cd that came with ur pc with full and oem no difference between them they do the same thing when you install win xp from ur oem cd ur have to act it with microsoft that dont take long this oem does same as full no need to buy full version its same thing just more cash microsoft want from you
2006-12-05 09:56:52 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋