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JustBoughtSomeD
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December 6th, 2011 15:00
Windows 7 32/64 bit question
I just bought 3 Optiplex 790 desktops from the dell outlet. 2 of them shipped with Win 7 Pro/64, 1 with Win 7 Pro/32. I haven't powered any of them on yet.
I would like to run Win 7 Pro/64 on all of them. I was hoping since i haven't accepted the EULA yet i may be able to switch it. I figured i could use the Media from 1 system to re-install if there aren't any legal ramifications.
Is re-installing the best technical solution, and is it acceptable per the license agreement? I don't want to purchase ANOTHER Windows 7 license.
JustBoughtSomeD
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Posted December 6th, 2011 15:00
Thanks for clarifying this. I'll plan to do a re-install on the 32 bit box, then. I
I hope the Dell re-install media contains all the Dell device drivers...
theflash1932
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Posted December 6th, 2011 15:00
Even if you have accepted the EULA you can switch. The Product Key (COA/sticker on the side of the computer) is valid for both architectures of a given version of Windows. For example, the 7 Home Premium key is good for 7 Home Premium 32-bit or 64-bit. Sometimes with switching from one to the other, the trick is getting a hold of the media (Dell won't send media other than what you purchased), but with your situation, you have it covered.
theflash1932
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Posted December 6th, 2011 16:00
It doesn't, but they are easy to get.
http://www.dell.com/support/drivers/us/en/04
Choose your model, then choose Windows 7 64-bit. Make sure you start with Desktop System Software (DSS, under System Utilities), then the Chipset drivers before doing other drivers. Install the Dell drivers that apply to your specific configuration (video, audio, fax/serial, etc.) on the Drivers and Downloads page, even if everything "appears" ok in Device Manager.
theflash1932
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Posted December 6th, 2011 15:00
And, yes, you must do a clean install, as it is not possible to do an "in-place" upgrade between architectures.