Can you make a "custom" OEM Vista DVD?

[Majestic]

Is it possible to make a Vista OEM DVD that accepts ALL serial #s from all manufacturers? I've already done this on Windows XP by editing the setupp.ini and deleting the oem info then slipstreaming it using nlite. That said, can we do the same on Vista?

Thanks,

Majestic

[Markus]

Vista installs differently than XP so because of that yes. You don't even have to modify the disk. I have used a retail disk to install vista and used an OEM key to activate. So there shouldn't be any issue with installing with a Vista OEM disk and using the OEM product key from the side of the case to activate. As long as its a valid key it will activate. Hope that helps.

[NickCat11]

You could also use Vlite which is specifically for customizing a Vista installation DVD.

[LunchBox]

Originally Posted by Markus

Vista installs differently than XP so because of that yes. You don't even have to modify the disk. I have used a retail disk to install vista and used an OEM key to activate. So there shouldn't be any issue with installing with a Vista OEM disk and using the OEM product key from the side of the case to activate. As long as its a valid key it will activate. Hope that helps.

That can't be correct, I used a VIsta disk with a legit license and it would not work. Of course I used a Windows Anytime Upgrade disk and installed the same version as the license.

[MrUnknown]

I've used a Vista retail disk to reinstall onto computers and used OEM licenses several times.

Maybe Anytime Upgrade licenses are different? No idea.

[MobileTechie]

Originally Posted by MrUnknown

I've used a Vista retail disk to reinstall onto computers and used OEM licenses several times.

I did one just this weekend using my normal Vista retail disk.

[Majestic]

The thing is I've tried with an all-in-one Vista dvd that has every manufacturer out there and it did not work. Granted that was OEM.. But the license sticker on my clients computer IS Oem (not in that list though) and after installation I tried to use magicaljellybean keychanger but it never accepts it. Gone through 4 installs already

Perhaps I do need a retail disk. This is getting confusing! I'm goiing to try with a retail and see then post back.

any more ideas?

Thanks

Majestic

[MrUnknown]

With Vista and 7, a 9-in-1 type CD isn't needed. All versions are on one disk. Well, you need two, one for 64bit and one for 32bit.

The only advantage to OEM is the OEM software, if you even can assume that is an advantage. Well, drivers too but I almost never have issues finding drivers with Vista or 7 now.

[Majestic]

Originally Posted by MrUnknown

With Vista and 7, a 9-in-1 type CD isn't needed. All versions are on one disk. Well, you need two, one for 64bit and one for 32bit.

The only advantage to OEM is the OEM software, if you even can assume that is an advantage. Well, drivers too but I almost never have issues finding drivers with Vista or 7 now.

Well it seems the solution was to use a Retail DVD. I got an MSDN Retail Vista and the serial worked perfectly. Seems it's the OEM dvd that does not accept all serials, how ironic.

It's all worked out and I was able to update the machine.

Thanks all for your help!

Majestic

[MrUnknown]

random thought, the OEM disks might only accept the volume keys that the OEM is supposed to use with their automated installs, while the key on the side is a full license key.