Reinstall Vista using OEM key with retail DVD?

I have a Vista DVD from my university, and dell neglected to send me an OS DVD or recovery dvd of any kind, or any way to recover the OS. Is it possible to reinstall with the DVD I have using the OEM key, or do I specifically need the dell DVD in order to install Vista?

 

If you got a Vista DVD from your college, you should have gotten a key; use that.

 

i have used that key on my desktop, but i still have the dvd.

 

I would expect it to work. Why not try it?

If it doesn't, there's some page at Dell support where you can request the OEM DVD for free... but I'd try the DVD you have first. I don't think it should really matter.

Edit: Here's the link if you need it:
http://support.dell.com/support/top...e/en/backupcd_form?c=us&l=en&s=gen&redirect=1

 

it might work, but the guaranteed method would be to use an anytime upgrade dvd.

 

You should be able to use your OEM key just fine. The installer should correctly install the particular version of Vista that the key authorizes (since all of the versions come on a single DVD and it's the key that dictates which one is installed).

Legally speaking, you're in the clear...two systems and two keys means you're good.

 

Do a search for Orev's Vista Clean Install Guide in the HP/Compaq forum. Or just click the link in my sig. That should answer all your questions.