BDAWBTP
02-27-2001, 07:55 PM
What is the major difference between the retail Windows and the OEM version?
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Nighthawk
02-27-2001, 08:14 PM
Retail is what you buy in the store, for a little more money.
OEM windows is what computer manufacturers get. They can charge less for it, but legally aren't allowed to sell it without a system (definitions include a hard drive, and a CPU, and motherboard). It's basically the CD and manual.
OEM windows is what computer manufacturers get. They can charge less for it, but legally aren't allowed to sell it without a system (definitions include a hard drive, and a CPU, and motherboard). It's basically the CD and manual.
BDAWBTP
02-28-2001, 05:40 PM
The reason I ask is because I've seen OEM versions of Win 98 on pricewatch.com.
I am building a computer for my mother in law and wanted to do it as cheaply as possible.
Thanks
Bill
I am building a computer for my mother in law and wanted to do it as cheaply as possible.
Thanks
Bill
Fingers
03-01-2001, 12:52 AM
Original Equipment Manufacturer. Products labeled as OEM are intended to be sold in pre-built systems, not for sale as individual items. I'm not sure how OEM's make it into the market, but they're the same product as the retail versions, just without the fancy packaging, usually contain no manuals, no instructions, and they sometimes have a somewhat shorter warranty.
You won't get any tech support from Microsoft with an OEM version (not that it matters, because you have SysOpt http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/wink.gif). If you call them for help, they'll ask for the Product Number, when you give it to them, they'll tell you to contact the company that you bought your computer from.
You won't get any tech support from Microsoft with an OEM version (not that it matters, because you have SysOpt http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/wink.gif). If you call them for help, they'll ask for the Product Number, when you give it to them, they'll tell you to contact the company that you bought your computer from.
swodahs
03-01-2001, 01:55 AM
Does that go for hardware too?? In that case I can save alot of $$$
Fingers
03-01-2001, 02:33 AM
Yes, hardware too. Just be aware, you may not always get everything you need. ie. OEM hard drives don't come with mounting screws, manuals, installation disks, or IDE cables. OEM sound and video cards usually include drivers, but not instructions. If you know what your doing and/or are willing to find the information and troubleshoot on the web, OEM parts can save lots of $$$.
RayH
03-01-2001, 05:41 AM
Retail microprocessors come with a 3 year warranty and a fan. They are ususally just a few dollars more expensive. But if you are purchasing an expensive, nearer the top of the line processor, it may be worth the extra few bucks. OEMs come w/o fan and whatever warranty (usually 30 days) the reseller wants to give!
I would get retail versions of video cards, though. Sometimes OEMs and Retails vary significantly.
But with the exception of the above two, I usually get OEM everything!
I would get retail versions of video cards, though. Sometimes OEMs and Retails vary significantly.
But with the exception of the above two, I usually get OEM everything!
BDAWBTP
03-01-2001, 04:06 PM
Thanks for the info http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/smile.gif
You said it Fingers
You won't get any tech support from Microsoft with an OEM version (not that it matters, because you have SysOpt ).
You said it Fingers
You won't get any tech support from Microsoft with an OEM version (not that it matters, because you have SysOpt ).
SysOpt.com
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