This topic shows up every now and again, and the bottom line is that you don't really need to worry about it.  Dell uses a volume license to image the hard drives delivered with their computers and I have never seen one that had the same product code on the case and on the drive.  Unlike off the shelf copies, OEM product codes cannot be activated on line, and will not normally be allowed to activate by phone.  If used in accordance with the OEM EULA, there is no need.  Dell BIOS has a signature that is checked by setup when you boot from the Windows installation CD (or DVD).  This allows the installation to be activated without needing to call either Microsoft or Dell.  The COA attached to the computer is simply evidence of a legal copy of Windows being assigned to that particular computer.  The only time it comes in handy is if the installation is giving problems and you need to contact Dell for help.  For that reason it is still a good idea to keep a record of the number, but you shouldn't need to enter it if the time should come to reinstall your operating system.

One point I neglected to mention since I was discussing OEM versions of Windows; the Windows installation CD or DVD must be one that is supplied by Dell and has the company logo on it.  You cannot use an off the shelf commercial CD or DVD and expect the disk to automatically activate.  This should not normally be a problem, however, since the commercial CD/DVD will have its own product code attached to the packaging for the CD/DVD.

Why don't you go online to find something like "key finder" programe. some are free to use.

And since you dont really need it there is no use to threaten not to buy Dell again.

Hi JackShack,

There are few of us bought the computer around January 2007, the period when VISTA OS was about to be released. At that time Dell's computers were dispatched with XP OEM, with a choice of obtaining Dell's Express VISTA upgrade DVD disk with a seperate COA number for the VISTA os [so long as prepared to pay the postage and package].

Now when I choose to do clean install of the VISTA OS using the Dell's Express VISTA Upgrade disk [I did this with a single installation-not double installation] mine activated after putting in the new COA number that accompanied the VISTA DVD. However at the time there were issues with the chipset and needed a latest chipset & IMSM drivers from intel. When I installed those new drivers the VISTA OS informed that the OS is not registered. At that point I could not again activate it just online but had to type in "slui.exe 4" in start search and ring a phone number when I was provided with nine six figure numbers to get it activated after answering few questions.

I thought it is pertinant to the subject that is being discussed-What do you feel?

With regards.

Normally such upgrades do not affect the operating system installation or its activation status, but this is obviously a special condition.  Windows, even though it may be a pre-activated OEM copy, still performs the calculations to determine the descriptor of the machine it has been installed on.  If too much gets changed, it will decide that the hard drive has been moved to another machine and require activation.  A radical change in the drivers required for the chipset just may be enough to cause a request for activation.

As you discovered, however, Microsoft is reasonable in these situations and will accomodate the need for activation after they verify the legality of the installation.  I also note that this is not a case for pre-activation since a product key was provided with the Vista upgrade disk.

Hi JackShack,

Well said,and helpful for the forum users.

What do you feel, If I decide to do another clean install of my VISTA OS using the same Dell's Express VISTA DVD-will I need to type in my COA or Will I not? [One way to find out to reinstall and see, I know]

Any how thank you for your answer.

Regards

snow

Here is why it matters....

In my case, my hard drive was failing, which resulted (somehow) in the windows hash being screwed up.  As a result, I was instructed by the computer to put my OEM disk in to reinstall, and asked for the product code.  Alas, it rubbed off my computer, and I do not have one.  I have been on the phone being transfered here and there, only to 1) end up where I started and 2) being placed on hold for 43 minutes and then 3) being told that because I could not read the numbers off the label, that Dell can't give me a new product code.  Newsflash.  If I could read the numbers off the label, I wouldn't have called to get a new one.  Then I was refused escalation to resolve the issue and referred to Microsoft.  Microsoft says that since it is an OEM product, that they can't give support and I need to go back to Dell.  So yes, having your product code is a HUGE issue.  I suggest writing it down on your reinstallation DVD evelope so you have it handy.  From what I have read on the internet, the ink doesn't stay on the label due to heat issues, which is in fact what fried my hard drive.  I know this since the really nice Dell contractor told me this just prior to leaving my home just a half hour or so.  The only positive I have?  He (the nice tech guy) is willing to go to bat for me as he has seen the stupid sticker, and has been to my home many times for repairs.  We've gotten to know each other.  I have to say Dell has a decent product but their customer service is handily the worst I have ever dealt with.  Perhaps if Dell would get a clue and place that sticker in a better place other than right where one's leg would rub on the underside of the laptop.  Shot in the dark, stick it under the battery (not on the battery, but in the battery compartment).  It won't rub off. 

Never again with Dell.  Never.

Not a bad idea ... that's where they put them now ... since at least January.  Dell is not the only one who places labels on the underside of the laptop ... so does HP, Acer, IBM, etc., and since OEM's don't track Product Keys (part of the price you pay for extremely discounted software), there is no way for the OEM to get you a new one.

Hi and sorry to resurrect an old thread.  I have the same system and also can no longer see the product key.  I realize that I will most likely never need it, but I am about to upgrade to Win 7 (probably through a clean install) and just want to cover all of my bases.  Isn't it found in System Info under the Windows Activation Product ID, or is this a different number?