Vista 64bit M50vm

Alright, really simple question that I couldn't really find an answer to. If my M50vm comes with vista 32bit, is the only way to get vista 64bit to pay Micro$oft $$$ for a full version of it, or can I get a CD from ASUS or somewhere else for free and just use the license from my 32bit version? Thanks.

 

You can buy an alternate media disk from Microsoft for $10 from here: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/1033/ordermedia/default.mspx

However, I keep getting an error message.

 

You can install Vista 64 and use the key for Vista 32. Microsoft allows such actions int their agreement.

 

Can anybody develop this answer further? I am in the same situation, but I haven't ever seen this particular answer.

There would seem to be three component parts of this answer, which I would like to verify:

First, is the answer given accurate for all Vista licenses, or only for retail licenses? I was under the impression that OEM licenses were treated differently.

Second, what is the story with this media? I have never seen this referenced before, but it is obviously on the official Microsoft site, so it seems legit. So many other places, I've seen people suggest buying the full 64-bit version. I would hope people would get this option out there if it works.

Finally, if I already have 64-bit Vista media, is there any reason to get this replacement media? I would presume not, which would be great.

Oh, and BTW, what is this "error" you speak of? That sounds pretty vague. Is it an installation error, or is it just some random configuration issue?

 

The error is that if you try to order, MS takes you to an "Error: We can't find the page you're looking for".