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    Clarification on reasons for multiple DVDs for different versions

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by gerryf19, Aug 8, 2009.

  1. gerryf19

    gerryf19 I am the walrus

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    After getting used to the way Windows Vista was installed, quite a few of us were confused when Technet and MSDN loaded different images for each version of Windows 7--there was some back and forth on the TOMORROW IS THE DAY thread while we were all downloading our images.

    What happened? Weren't all Windows versions on the disk (at least all 32-bit on one disk and all 64-bit)? Didn't we read that somewhere? A few people even reported trying to use keys for one version on a disk image of another without success.

    When I finally got around to installing tonight, I had forgotten to write down my key so I figure no problem--I'll just choose Ultimate and add it later.

    The first thing I noticed while installing was that Windows never asked for a key at the beginning like Vista did, but it went ahead and installed Ultimate anyway.

    OK, no problem. When it did ask for a key, I was thinking I'd better grab another computer and get the key, but it let me proceed without entering it and finished loading Ultimate.

    So, what's going on? Are multiple versions on the Windows 7 DVDs or not?

    Well, yes they are. If you do a little digging around, you can see version specific indications, such as install_Windows 7 HOMEBASIC.clg, install_Windows 7 HOMEPREMIUM.clg...etc.

    But the DVDs ARE clearly different, as you can see by the different image hashes.

    So, what is going on here? How does an image decide which version to install?

    A little more digging and surfing revealed the answer for those who are still curious.

    In a kind of throwback to the old Windows XP days, where setupp.ini determined the type of installation (retail, upgrade, oem), the whole installation operation is guided by a simple little text file.

    Look in your DVD's SOURCES directory and you will find a file called ei.cfg and open it in notepad. It is this file that determines the version

    For example, the ei.cfg file from the Ultimate disk reads:

    [EditionID]
    Ultimate
    [Channel]
    Retail
    [VL]
    0

    Other ei.cfg files from other DVDs correspond to the other installs.

    Don't feel like carrying multiple disks around and want your choice back? Edit your disk image before you burn it and remove this file and Windows install will once again ask you which version to install.

    Just thought you might want to know....
     
    gerryf19, Aug 8, 2009
    #1