Vista Clean install, rather than OEM discs

I was wondering if there's a way to get the Vista Home Basic setup files out of my OEM Restore DVD's and re-load my laptop with that instead of the DVD's.

If not, then is it possible to use the Toshiba CD-key from Home Basic on the bottom of my laptop on clean install with the anytime upgrade DVD that came with my laptop?

I'm willing to try it later on on my own, but if anyone has had any success stories, I'd really be interested to know.

Thanks in advance for any replies

 

I am pretty sure you can't get just the Vista Home Basic files off the recovery cd as it is an autorun disk. I have tried this before but can't seem to figure it out.

There is one problem. If you do, you will not have the proper drivers and sometimes it is a hassle trying to track down and aquire the proper ones. Even if you do, you may run into setup problems.

As far as I know the Anytime Upgrade disk only includes upgrade files. I am pretty sure it doesn't contain a complete install.

 

The Anytime Upgrade DVD is in fact a full disc of Vista. Microsoft made all media the same for all versions (ie, all editions on one DVD) to reduce the number of discs in circulation. I installed Ultimate from it as a 30 day, full version (trial I suppose) by not entering a CD-Key.

All hardware did load fine on stock install. Toshiba has all the drivers anyway. So I'm OK there.

Thing is, I'm just wondering if the version of Windows pre-installed (Home Basic) will install using my own CD-Key on the bottom of my laptop. AFAIK, OEM vs. retail keys a different. I will try it this weekend, but I'd just like to know if its worth it.

And thank you for the quick reply.