Vista Ultimate 32bit OEM... how do I get my 64 bit copy?

[Jimmer411]

I know that the retail version comes with both copys, but the oem does not. Am I SOL on 64bit Vista since I got the 32bit version?

It was my understanding that Vista Ultimate had both versions :shrug:

[NickS]

Yes.. me and my Dad share a copy of Home Prem. 32-Bit OEM, tried to get the "alternative media" today and it didn't work. My Dad gave M$ a call and they said nope, no alternative media for OEM.

[Jimmer411]

Thats home premium tho, I was under the impression that Ultimate came with 32bit and 64bit?

[David_L6]

Only retail comes with both 32 bit and 64 bit. OEM does not.

The only way that I know that you are going to be able to get the 64 bit version is to buy the retail version.

Think about it. OEM..... How many copies of the OS does Dell, HP, etc. need to install on a pre-built computer?

I have both 32 bit and 64 bit versions of Vista Ultimate installed on different computers. Can't say that you're missing anything except some aggravation due to things not working or not working correctly in 64 bit.

[NickS]

Support for 4GB RAM is probably key for him.

[Omastar]

Go here:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/1033/ordermedia/default.mspx

Fill out the information and Microsoft will ship you a free 64-bit version of your OS on DVD. All you pay is S&H.

[b1lk1]

Go here:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/1033/ordermedia/default.mspx

Fill out the information and Microsoft will ship you a free 64-bit version of your OS on DVD. All you pay is S&H.

That is for retail copies and they require you to enter your key to see if you qualify. You can try this to see if it works, but I wouldn't get my hopes up. OEM is specifically sold as 32 or 64 bit versions everywhere you look.

[Jimmer411]

That is for retail copies and they require you to enter your key to see if you qualify. You can try this to see if it works, but I wouldn't get my hopes up. OEM is specifically sold as 32 or 64 bit versions everywhere you look.

Yep your right, I tried it and it said no offer found. Ugh, well its a good thing that I got my copy free.

[SamHughe]

Yeah I'm in same situation. I've got my copy free via university and they say no 64bit version unless you shell out 300 bucks for Vista Ultimate. And I just ordered a new set of ram. Well I guess I have to go with xp 64bit for now.

[messerchmidt]

bittorrent... ;-)

[FullMoon]

Got my Retail Ultimate on ebay (32 bit and 64 bit) for around $154. You just have to keep your eyes open. No $300 required :D Sure beats the hell out of an OEM copy:up:

[ShoNuff]

You may try and go back to the place where you bought the 32 bit version and request the version you want. That's what I did and they charged me a couple bucks and gave me the 64bit DVD. :)

I tried going through MS and they said no. :mad:

[syne_24]

just torrent the 64bit version and input your 32bit key. That's how I'm running on x64, originally i bought oem 32bit as well.

[Truckchase!]

just torrent the 64bit version and input your 32bit key. That's how I'm running on x64, originally i bought oem 32bit as well.

Whoa, really? That works? Completely legal and all? I didn't even think to try that....

[b1lk1]

No, you can't do this. Your key would work for either 1, but not both at once.

[mutambo]

Did you try doing that ?

If not try installing one(32 or 64) as host and the other on VM ? if that works then it will.

As long as it tied to the same board its legal.

[Talonman]

One bit of trivia: The lady at Microsoft told me there is no way to upgrade Vista 32 bit, to Vista 64 bit. It requires a fresh install of Vista 64 bit.

I baught a retail Vista 64bit on ebay too.

[mutambo]

Yes, you cannot upgrade but you can install 32 bit as well the 64 bit on the same computer using dual boot or on a vmware, retail version has both DVDs.

[b1lk1]

One license, one install. Installing on your harddrive then in VMware is illegal since you are activating two installations with one COA. You are wrong.

[Truckchase!]

One license, one install. Installing on your harddrive then in VMware is illegal since you are activating two installations with one COA. You are wrong.

Yeah, but say you discontinue running the x86, will the x86 key work for the x64 version? (so there's only one active copy, and that's x64..)

[syne_24]

Yeah, but say you discontinue running the x86, will the x86 key work for the x64 version? (so there's only one active copy, and that's x64..)

yea it works..I bought the oem/system builder 32bit like here http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16832116213

Later on I upgraded to x64 with the same key. All you need is the installation disc, the key is interchangeable for 32/64 bit. It's only lock at the edition, i.e Home, Premium, Business, etc..So you can't upgrade like from Home to Ultimate, but between 32/64 bit yes you can.

I should mention that when I mean upgrade, I mean a complete format and fresh install of the new version not through windows or something. It won't work like that.

[mutambo]

Syne please clarify ...

Is it like they are selling you one key and letting you wish install 32 or 64 bit it doesn't matter ?

I want to install 32bit as primary for boot up and the 64 bit in a vmware for playing or knowing it.

Will it work like that ?

PS: I'm looking for clarification nothing for argument sake.

[Truckchase!]

Syne please clarify ...

Is it like they are selling you one key and letting you wish install 32 or 64 bit it doesn't matter ?

I want to install 32bit as primary for boot up and the 64 bit in a vmware for playing or knowing it.

Will it work like that ?

PS: I'm looking for clarification nothing for argument sake.

That will NOT work. You can't run two simultaneous copies with one key, regardless of what version.

[SamHughe]

Another question. If 32bit key works with the 64bit version, where can we get a vista 64 ultimate legally (unactivated but without any crack). The solution offered earlier (filling out form and requesting copy) won't work for me because I got my copy from the university and Microsoft won't send me any 64bit copy. If I download and install the trial version is it possible to enter the key and unlock it there?

[mutambo]

University version means probably student version dont think they work like that BUT trying doesn't harm get a trial version and try to activate it with 32 bit key.

Please post the outcome :)

[GAR]

very interesting find.

[Truckchase!]

I'm gonna try it this week. I'll report back on my success or failure. Using a 32bit OEM key for Vista Business.....

[b1lk1]

The key absolutely positively works from a 32-bit copy to a 64-bit copy. There is absolutely no doubt in my mind. I have done this with Vista Premium. Even the OEM works this way.

[mutambo]

True, it works but they keys for student versions may be different , lets see how it goes.

Some folks on ebay are selling ultimate 64 and they are saying as they kept 32 bit for self and selling the 64.

Victimizing the buyers ?

[Jimmer411]

Got my Retail Ultimate on ebay (32 bit and 64 bit) for around $154. You just have to keep your eyes open. No $300 required :D Sure beats the hell out of an OEM copy:up:


Got my oem copy thru the vista training program at my old job :D cant beat free.

[Soulburner]

I have 2 copies of Vista Home Premium 32-bit here, and would like to try 64-bit.

Can anyone confirm that the same key will work for 64-bit regardless if its OEM or Retail?

[doodle]

I have 2 copies of Vista Home Premium 32-bit here, and would like to try 64-bit.

Can anyone confirm that the same key will work for 64-bit regardless if its OEM or Retail?

yes it does work,as i have copy of vista home premium 32 bit and am using 64bit with the same key that i got with my 32bit vista ,but i dont use both just the 64 version. (oem)

[Flip_Lx]

so i hate to bring up a dead topic, but if i use my friends 64bit install disk can i use my 32bit key even though it has been activated (i've read that reactivating vista isn't as painful as many think but i havent seen or read anyone going from 32-64 with the key) or will i need to go buy another key 32bit key that hasn't been activated?

[Soulburner]

If its still currently active, no.

If it will be the only copy of that key in use, yes.

[Flip_Lx]

so a fresh format that would take out the other running version would work?

[Soulburner]

I just switched from Home Premium 32-bit to Home Premium 64-bit with the same key, it is legal. Microsoft offers the product to do this.

[Flip_Lx]

cool thanks for the info on that. i appreciate the help