How to obtain Windows Vista 64-Bit ?

Hi,

My expectations to upgrade from VISTA 32bit ULTIMATE to VISTA 64bit ULTIMATE !

I've decided to buy a DELL STUDIO 17 laptop (topmodel with 4 GB ram and Blue Ray) with the VISTA ULTIMATE English edition (no information if it was 32bit or 64bit on the order site).

The STUDIO was running fine, but it was with the OEM 32-bit VISTA  ULTIMATE OS. Because I've bought some 64-bit programs, I decided to do an upgrade to 64-bit. Normally this is free as stated by MS, except the transportation costs to send the DVD to your home. What i've found to upgrade, till now :

- MS does no upgrades a OEM OS (if you put your product ID in the MS upgrade window, it gives an fault -only 20 digits instead of the 25 digit ID)

- So I send a mail to DELL customer support last week. Still no answer!

- Did a call today 20081229 to DELL customer support, with the following answers :

a) If you want an upgrade from VISTA 32bit ULTIMATE to VISTA 64bit ULTIMATE  you will pay therefore : about 280€ !!!!!

b) We don't sell VISTA ULTIMATE 64-bit on STUDIO laptops (altough the 64-bit processor and the 4GB ram). But see,  if you look to upgrade your drivers for your STUDIO laptop, you will see also the 64-bit drivers and programs for this STUDIO laptops !!?? Who's joking??

c) Conclusion : it's the fault of the stupid customer

Questions to DELL and Microsoft :

How can I upgrade to a 64-bit version of VISTA ULTIMATE for a DECENT PRICE  and in a easy manner???? I have already buyed an full VISTA 64bit ULTIMATE version, which's running on a desktop! (can I use this version with the installation ID of the OEM 32 bit version as delivered by DELL?)

Greetings,

Dirk.

Question also asked on thevistaforums.com under Windows Vista Support

Welcome to the forums Nicolas :emotion-21:

You can only request/order it directly from Microsoft, if you bought a retail version of the OS.

Since yours is an OEM version - pre-installed on the system, you'll have to ask Dell if they'd be prepared to send you the 64bit disc?

I don't know if it can be used to request a 64bit version of the OS - specifically, but this is the application form for 'backup' discs... normally used if you didn't get - or have lost the original discs with the system).

Good luck :emotion-5:

Hi Kyoka, Customers in the US are getting the 64bit when they ask for it. However this changes from one country to another, in the UK its no. The only way to find out if Dell will give out the 64bit in Belgium is to give Dell support a ring HERE. Wish you luck.