OEM Media

[Frank]

I don't think that it is _right_ to sell a PC with software installed
without providing
a separate media for the installed software. If enough people would
not buy a PC
without separate media for their software (installed) this would soon
stop.
Another point is why are the stickers on the outside of the box. All
they would
have to do is put it inside or better yet place it with the paperwork.
People cannot
use a number if they can't see it. Ten numbers will give you ten
installs from one
OEM CD disk.

 

[Alias]

I don't think that it is _right_ to sell a PC with software installed
without providing
a separate media for the installed software. If enough people would
not buy a PC
without separate media for their software (installed) this would soon
stop.

I stopped years ago. No HP/Dell, etc. crap on my PC.

Another point is why are the stickers on the outside of the box. All
they would
have to do is put it inside or better yet place it with the paperwork.

My stickers are in a filing cabinet.

People cannot
use a number if they can't see it.

Very true.

Ten numbers will give you ten
installs from one
OEM CD disk.

Huh?

Alias

 

[Yves Leclerc]

I don't think that it is _right_ to sell a PC with software installed
without providing
a separate media for the installed software. If enough people would
not buy a PC
without separate media for their software (installed) this would soon
stop.
Another point is why are the stickers on the outside of the box. All
they would
have to do is put it inside or better yet place it with the paperwork.
People cannot
use a number if they can't see it. Ten numbers will give you ten
installs from one
OEM CD disk.

Several "large" OEM maker consider that if the install files are on a
"separate" partition of the hard drive that this "qualifies" as install media.
If so, what are we to do when the hard drive "bites the dust?"

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

In or out of warranty?
In warranty, the hard drive is replace already loaded or with install media
separately.

Out of warranty?
Not good since the person may be forced to buy Windows XP...again, or go to
another OS.

I hate this practice.
But it is one of many options the OEMs have.
Buyers not liking this policy should buy where they can get what they want.
But this is where most stop.
They should also write (paper AND Email) the OEM and clearly state why they
did not get the business.
It is only when they SEE the loss of business they may change it.

I am not really in favor of Microsoft removing the option since among other
things would be perceived as Microsoft taking more control.
But, Microsoft, the OEMs and other sellers of OEM all need to be more
proactive in informing the customers of the limitations of OEM.
This is a joint failure here and can not be blamed on only one.

 

[Jeff Teel]

Is there any way of burning those files on to a CD and making a boot install
disk? I've not been in this shape (yet) since I haven't purchased a new
system for a while so I don't know if those files can be accessed easily or
not!

Thanks
Jeff

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Jeff;
I have heard of limited success in doing so.
It seems to depend on the computer manufacturer and the method they use.
Locate a forum for the specific manufacturer and model of computer.

In almost all cases, a CD is available from the manufacturer either free or
about $10 US.
If possible get the CD, it WILL be needed sooner or later.
Another option some provide is the ability to make a set of restore CDs, but
they can only be made once.

 

[Bruce Chambers]

I don't think that it is _right_ to sell a PC with software installed
without providing
a separate media for the installed software. If enough people would
not buy a PC
without separate media for their software (installed) this would soon
stop.

Legally, the OEM has met it's contractual obligation to Microsoft
by providing a means of returning the PC to its ex-factory state,
whether it's a Recovery CD or a Recovery Partition. They are not
legally obliged to provide a true installation CD as part of the sale.
Reputable, customer-service aware OEMs, like Dell, MPC, and Gateway, do
provide a full OEM installation CD, that does permit custom
installations and repairs. Many uncaring OEMs, especially those who
sell their computers through department stores and chain outlets, such
as Compaq, HP, eMachines, and Sony, however, in an effort to save
pennies and reduce their support costs by having to hire support people
that can only say "Boot from the Recovery CD to return your PC to its
original condition," provide only a CD bearing a disk image of the hard
drive as it left the factory. These Recovery/Restore CDs cannot perform
normal installations, nor can they be used to do any sort of customizations.

Essentially, it boils down to "You get what you pay for."

Another point is why are the stickers on the outside of the box. All
they would
have to do is put it inside or better yet place it with the paperwork.

Which would probably get promptly lost, if the thousands of posts on
that very subject are any indication. Fortunately, people are much less
likely to lose the PC case.

People cannot
use a number if they can't see it.

Which is why the Product Key is on the *outside* of the PC. Do you
expect people to have to open the PC's case, just so they can get the
Product Key when they reinstall? That's not a particularly good idea.

Ten numbers will give you ten
installs from one
OEM CD disk.

Yes, if one has 10 separate licenses, as represented by 10 separate
Product Keys, then 10 separate installations could be performed using a
single CD. This is also true of the retail CDs. Was there a particular
point you were trying to make by restating the obvious?


--

Bruce Chambers

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They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. -Benjamin Franklin

Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of
chains and slavery? .... I know not what course others may take, but as
for me, give me liberty, or give me death! -Patrick Henry

 

[Bruce Chambers]

Several "large" OEM maker consider that if the install files are on a
"separate" partition of the hard drive that this "qualifies" as install media.
If so, what are we to do when the hard drive "bites the dust?"

Obtain the replacement hard drive from the PC manufacturer; they'll
also have to provide a means to restore the OS.


--

Bruce Chambers

Help us help you:



They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. -Benjamin Franklin

Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of
chains and slavery? .... I know not what course others may take, but as
for me, give me liberty, or give me death! -Patrick Henry