PC hardware forum: OEM, at what point will MS consider their OS...

You may change other components such as hard drives, RAM, display cards, etc...even the CPU. This won't mean you may never have to activate the system but the motherboard is the key component. I do know that OEM builders have a way of changing the MB with an OEM copy of Windows but it must be their little secret. Obviously if they need to replace a defective board within the warranty period you won't be charged for a new copy of Windows. As for full OEM copies of Windows at Frys, these are meant for builders making PCs for purchase and not for themselves. It will be the same as full version retail but with a different volume number and a product ID code that works only with that issue of Win7.

from one that comes with a brand name PC in that it would have a bigger library of drivers and such. There would be no reason for Dell to put drivers on their OEM version for other than their products. OEM just means "original equipment manufacturer". Sometimes the term used was "VAR" which means Value Added Reseller. A VAR would basically be an example of a local builder who would buy OEM copies of operating systems such as you'd find at Frys. If they sell you a PC, you should get that full OEM disk and not some recovery image such as you'd get from Dell. Hope that helps.

Full version as opposed to the "upgrade"

Read the best answer at http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/271757-28-what-hardware-upgraded

The OEM license has changed in that if you buy that you are now declaring you are selling the machine that you install this on. Are you building a machine for sale?
Bob

Is simple. What many have done is buy the OEM then demand support from MSFT. Even when they were told it was not included. And even when it was locked to the machine, they still call in and want help.

Sure, jump through hoops but not only are the hoops getting smaller but soon may be on fire.
Bob