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    Moving from 32-bit to 64-bit Vista, Licensing Options

    Discussion in 'Lenovo' started by VT-Vincent, Dec 14, 2007.

  1. VT-Vincent

    VT-Vincent Notebook Enthusiast

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    I recently upgraded my T61 to 4GBs of RAM, and I'm currently running the 32-bit version of Vista Home Premium, so I can only utilize 3GBs due to the memory address limitations. I know that with a retail copy of Vista, you can obtain a 64-bit disc free of charge, but does anyone know if there's a similar option for the OEM pre-installed version shipped with the computer through Lenovo?

    Any help would be greatly appreciated!
     
    VT-Vincent, Dec 14, 2007
    #1
  2. Greg

    Greg Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    I do not believe you can switch the 'bitness' of an OEM license.
     
    Greg, Dec 14, 2007
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  3. JCMS

    JCMS Notebook Prophet

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    You could still try to install the X64 version with your current serial number and do a phone activation.

    If not, the OEM edition of Vista Prenium is $120 in US/Canada
     
    JCMS, Dec 14, 2007
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  4. ari_m

    ari_m Notebook Consultant

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    VT, you can simply buy the $5 64-bit Vista Anytime Upgrade DVD from CompUSA (or elsewhere) and follow the Stallen's clean install guide in the sticky. Your 32-bit license will work for the 64-bit. Just make sure to use Orin's ABR utility to back your Vista license onto separate media (I used a CD) and then restore it after the install is done and *POW* - instant 64-bit "OEM" Vista, except without all the crapware! :D

    This worked for me and many others, no phone activation is needed. Lenovo might give you a disk, but I don't think it's worth the trouble.
     
    ari_m, Dec 14, 2007
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  5. Geary

    Geary Newbie

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    I second that advice. I also used Orin's ABR program to transfer the Vista activation info from the 32-bit Vista preload to an x64 Vista installed from the 64-bit Anytime Upgrade CD. Worked without a hitch. No phone activation and no Internet activation required.
     
    Geary, Dec 19, 2007
    #5