Problems activating when clean installing Vista?

Was using the same serial key that came with my SZ680 to clean install Vista Business from a separate disc (32-bit also), and the code works fine for installation and all, but when it comes to activation it says its invalid. Anybody else who had troubles with this?

Just when I thought I'd finally set up my Vaio free of all junk, all drivers and the Sony Utils I want working...

 

Dont worry...call it in and explain it to them and they will get you to read off the 48(?) number code and they will validate it.

 

Done Works, thanks

Hope I won't have to reformat again now!

 

The key your notebook comes with is an OEM one, which is supposed to only be used on the hardware it was brought with. My understanding is that they place a restriction on it being activated over the net more than once, so you are forced to call them.

 

Where did you call?

 

When you click on Activate in your System Menu, after you get the invalid key notification, they advise to try the alternative way to phone. Just select your country for the list and dial that number. First you go through the automated activation process which will not work,after which they put you through to an operator who solves the issue.

 

I hae reactivated 8 times in the last week because i have been playing with Matrix Storage and tweaking so much.

 

I tried the ABR method and it worked great No need to call Microsoft anymore

 

what is ABR method?

 

here:

http://forum.notebookreview.com/sho...hlight=clean+vista+install+with+no+activation

 

thank you synthesia.