Question regarding OEM Windows 7 disc

[Meteor|WAR]

I went to the Windows 7 "New Efficiency" event (http://www.microsoft.com/business/thenewefficiency/) in Boston today and got a free copy of Windows 7. I was wondering about something printed on the disc. It only says "32-bit software" on it, nothing about 64-bit.

Now the question is, can I only install the 32 bit version of Win 7 with this disc? I should add I believe it's an OEM version if that matters. I know it was free so I cant complain, but it will be kind of a let down if it's only the 32-bit version. What confuses me is I was under the impression all Windows 7 discs came with both 32-bit and 64-bit versions. Or am I mistaken and it's only the retail versions? And is the retail supposed to come with two discs, one for each version or are both versions on one DVD? :confused:

I'm not planning to install it until maybe this weekend so I cant find out myself until then. I'm seeking an answer because if it is only the 32-bit version I'll probably not install it.

[zanzabar]

the 32 and 64bit keys work on both parts so u just need to get a disk. and every thing that ive gotten from MS at events have had retail keys

if it says 32bit only then its 32bit only on the disk

[Meteor|WAR]

Thanks for the quick reply.

I dont know the difference between retail and OEM keys. Any way to tell?

So basically I cant use this disk to install a 64-bit version but I can use it's product key with a 64-bit disk? If so I'm going to have to find a way to legally obtain a 64-bit version disk.:confused:

[zanzabar]

your key will work with 32 or 64 but the disk only has 32. the disks are legal to get from the internet u cant pirate a disk that has no license with it its considered replacement media (unless it has a crack built in) or u can call MS and get replacement media and a 64bit disk mailed to u for like $10

[tool_462]

Nothing illegal about downloading Win 7 and burning it do a DVD :up:

[Meteor|WAR]

your key will work with 32 or 64 but the disk only has 32. the disks are legal to get from the internet u cant pirate a disk that has no license with it its considered replacement media (unless it has a crack built in) or u can call MS and get replacement media and a 64bit disk mailed to u for like $10

Hmm, maybe I will see if I can get a 64-bit disk mailed to me. Do you by any chance know off hand the correct number to call?

[EDIT] Never mind I think I found it, thanks.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/326246

[EDIT2] Ok, well this is strange. I just called and spoke to a Microsoft rep who I believe may not have known what he was talking about. He first told me that until the official launch in a few weeks the only disks available are 32-bit disks. Then he went on to say something about my product key not working with 64-bit disks anyway since the disks they've been giving out at the launch parties are actually RC versions, not final RTM versions. Does this sound right? I'm thinking about calling back and seeing if I can get a different rep to talk to.

[EDIT3] It seems my suspicions about the first rep were correct. I called back and another rep told me I can indeed use the key I have with a 64-bit disk, but I have to wait until after the official release to order one because they just dont have any yet. So I guess this would mean I probably could D/L a RTM version ISO, burn it to a DVD and use that.

[Etihtsarom]

They pulled RTM versions a while ago I think.

[Meteor|WAR]

After doing a little researching I found out free Windows disks given out at past launch parties were full retail versions. So it's a good bet this one is as well.

Only difference is this one says "not for resale" on it.

[Meteor|WAR]

Just wanted to post to confirm the key on these 32-bit launch party discs work fine with the Ultimate RTM ISO. Accepts the key and activates just fine.:up: