T61p - Different Vista CD key?

Hi all, this post would be my first post. I've really got many information from notebookreview.com.

I've received my T61p today, ordered on 8/31 (I'm in Atlanta). My specs are 6459CTO + T2500 + 4GB + 15.4 SWGA+ + Windows Vista Ultimate.

I couldn't stand with 80+ processes when I just booted. So many useless (at least for me) bunch of software! So, I would clean install with Vista Ultimate 64bit.

I was following Stallen's guide to backup stuffs. I've tried to backup Windows activation information. However, I found that backup-key.txt was different from Vista key attached on backside of the notebook. What is that mean? I can't understand why backup-ed cd key is different from sticker's one. On my desktop computer, backuped cd key is just identical.

One more question: isn't there a sort of plastic part to cover ultrabay slot after removing CDROM? When I pull out CDROM, there is a big ugly hole. I also can't understand why there is no cover for that.

Thanks in advance,
MJ

 

The key provided with the notebook is a valid key for the OEM version of Vista installed (i.e. 32-bit ultimate or whatever).

When Lenovo builds 10000x of systems, they typically will do a batch install, meaning they've got a generic build to image the hard drive with.

That build has no knowledge (figure of speech) of what sticker is physically attached to the system.

The time it would take to build every single system with a key that is typed on a sticker requires a manual process to inspect the sticker, type it in, etc.

Most computer manufacturers have licensing agreements with Microsoft where they must provide 'unique keys' to each system, so that each system can be represented independently, but there are some accomidations made for bulk-support/build installs, so that computer companies can shortcut in their build processes (to some degree).

Hope this makes sense.

 

Thank you, clearly understood. Then, can I use the key attached on the notebook?

 

you should be able to.

 

Because normally, you would fill that up with something like a spare battery or something.

 

The key on the sticker can only be used if you're using a OEM version of Vista (same bit kernel) like Lenovo uses (should be labeled on the sticker).

For example, a sticker on the notebook I'm using now says:

Windows Vista 32-bit Home Premium Edition (OEM)
************************
(key here)
************************

And sure enough, this system came w/ 32-bit Ultimate Edition of Vista installed on it.

Now lets say I go and buy a Windows Vista Ultimate and use the 64-bit DVD to install it.

The key from my system won't work to install it, likely for 2 reasons (And you'd have to use the key that came in the Windows retail box instead):
-1) It's a retail version of windows, not an OEM.
-2) It's 64-bit, and I -believe- (someone please correct me here if I'm mis-speaking) that OEM cd-keys are version specific. That is, there's 1 key for 32-bit versions, and 1 for 64-bit.


Summary: If you are using the OS recovery CDs from Lenovo and for some reason need to reference your cd-key, the one on the notebook will work without any problems. Otherwise, you'll need to ensure the version on the sticker is the same as the one you are installed, AND that it's also an OEM version and NOT a retail version.

 

I am sorry if i am hijacking the thread but i was searching and found this thread..

I got a T61p with Ultimate installed and there was no bits reference on the sticker in the back. It came with a 100GB HDD, so i upgraded to a 250GB HDD.
I used a vista ultimate DVD i download from the net but with my key (Using keyfinder program before replacing the HDD).. Now i think that the build i installed is giving me tons of problem (Maybe it is just vista). So my question is, if say someone who had a Lenovo laptop and wanted to format or replace the HDD, where can he/she find the windows DVD for his/her laptop?
Because personally i didn't get any windows CDs/DVDs, just the drivers on my hard disk..

Thanks & sorry again for barging in like this

 

All of these questions are answered in the F.A.Q. of my guide.

Also, I always appreciate it when people ask question like this in the clean install thread. That way it gives me a chance to update the guide as needed.

@outcell - it is pretty risky using downloaded versions of Vista install disk (if you are talking about a torrent). Unless you are 100% sure, most of these contain hacks and stuff for illegal activation. Many times other things are screwed up as a result. It's not worth it. Just spend $5 on the anytime upgrade disk for the piece of mind that you are installing the real deal.

 

Thanks Stallen. I haven't heard of this anytime upgrade disk before. I tried looking it up but didn't get any good information on it..