sLowEnd

So say if my mobo breaks and I have an OEM version of windows... what if I replace the mobo with the exact same kind as the broken one? Will that be considered a new computer?

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deltaepsylon

I think it's not, and (legally) you would have to buy another copy of windows. You can activate it again tho, if you call MS.

JTD92

No, if you upgrade like 6 different part than its a new computer.

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tensionz

I don't know for sure but I see a lot more people buy the OEM version and just call or reactivate it somehow.

I would kind of like to know to because I'll be upgrading all the time and want a OEM of Vista 64 if I can use it multiple times (but only once at a time of course).

sLowEnd

How does Windows detect that it's a new mobo if it's the same as the old one?

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Bitemarks and bloodstains

if it is the same make and model mobo then your alright but if you have a p35 mobo and you get a p45 replacement then you would need a new copy

a new mobo is a new computer that is all you can upgrade ram, hard drive, GPU, and CPU at the same time and you would still be alright

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tensionz

So if I bought a OEM and my mobo fried and I got a different one would there be anyway to continue using the OS?

blupupher

If you replace the MoBo with an identical MoBo, Windows will probably not even detect it. Techinacally, the MoBo is supposed to be an RMA/warranty, but the wording is a bit vague, so your probably OK.

No, for OEM versions, the computer is considered the Motherboard.

Yes, and they are software pirates for doing so. They are violating their TOS with MS when they do so. If you know your going to be upgrading MoBo's, get Retail.
That is the entire reason OEM is cheaper, it is a 1 time use deal.

Only if it is replaced with an identical board.

deltaepsylon

Hmm... My P5N-E mobo died on me, I had it replaced with another P5N-E and Windows noticed it.

blupupher

That's why I said probably. I have done this twice, once it noticed, once it did not.