Windows 7 OEM (MSDN) Question!

[Ironmonk]

Hello there!!!

During my last year at college (2009-2010), I had a MSDN subscription which gave me the following:

1x Windows 7 x64 Pro English Cdkey (currently used)
1x Windows 7 x64 Pro French Cdkey (unused)

One year ago, I installed Windows 7 x64 pro English on my machine (Old motherboard). Its still running.

Now, I am getting a new mobo and processor (core i7 860), while keeping my video card (gtx260).

I will give my old mobo and E8400 to my dad so that it becomes his new computer.

SO:

I want to keep the english cdkey with my newly made computer. Will microsoft phone service let me activate windows on my "updated" computer? If so, everything is solved.

If not, I would have to give the english cdkey to my dad since it is tied to the old motherboard. Then, I would be stuck with a french OS. Is there a way to change the language on a non-ultimate version?

Please let me know!!!

[Ironmonk]

I would like to add: I remember that back in windows XP days, people would get away with motherboard swapping on OEM licences. Is it still the case?

[lowfat]

The phone activation should be no problem. Takes about 5 minutes or so.

[Ironmonk]

Originally Posted by lowfat

The phone activation should be no problem. Takes about 5 minutes or so.

Should i lie and say its a dead motherboard? What do i say on the line =O

[sswilson]

I'm not even sure you'll have to call in. I'll let other folks chime in to verify, but I thought Microsoft only kept the hardware info from activation for 6 months.

[lowfat]

Originally Posted by Ironmonk

Should i lie and say its a dead motherboard? What do i say on the line =O

It is all automated. All you do is enter a series of numbers. Then it asks how many computers windows is installed on. You say 1. Then it gives you a series of numbers in return to type out on your computer.

[botat29]

With my TechNet, the cdkey for the French and the English are the same, may be you can try your French key with you English iso or DVD.

[Ironmonk]

Alright, I guess ill go with my first idea then :)

[JD]

Try the English key and online activation first. If it fails, and you don't want to call, then try the French key.

I think those MSDNAA keys have more than a single activation on them. I could be mistaken though. However my Server 2003 key got activated quite a few times without issue.

[bushwhacker]

MSDN isn't an OEM version so there is no tie to specific hardware. You can change it as you like. I agree with sswilson in that you will not likely have to call as the database is cleared periodically. For Windows XP WPA it was 120 days.