Installing R2 OEM Edition -Invalid Product Key Message

[rwsjbs]

Thanks for looking.

I purchased a sealed box of Win 2003 OEM R2 Standard Win32 edition that will not accept the Product Key. I have tried to install this version by:

-Booting from the CD to install
-Using nLite to create a bootable ISO
-Using the non-networked preinstallation with Winnt.sif on a floppy

I know I am using the exact key printed on the label. The key is printed very clearly (with my reading glasses!). I still tried switching out every combination of zero and O, and 8 and B and tried to install.

Each time when the install gets to the Product Key page, it is blank and I enter the Key on the Microsoft Sticker. Then it says the key is invalid.

I have several copies of Win2003 and if I use a key from another package, it accepts it and installs correctly. Also, if I use this same old key in the Winnt.sif (for the non-networked preinstallation), the software installs correctly.

I purchased the 2 versions at different times and from different vendors. Both keys are from the brown MS OEM boxes and are labeled the exact same way (The image of the box is attached):

Windows SVR STD 2003 RA WIN32 English
1PK DSP OEI CD 1 - 4 CPU 5 CLT
End Item PN: P73-02441
Barcode 8 82224 25758 9
and all other printing is exactly the same including the Build Date of 11/22/2006

So, it definitely looks like there is an issue with the key on the version I just purchased.

Am I missing something with the OEM install? Can some OEM's only be installed on specifice brands of servers (HP, Dell, etc.) I'm beginning to get concerned that I purchased an illegal copy.

Please let me know any suggestions that you have.

Thanks so much,
Richard Scott

 

[strongm]

> I'm beginning to get concerned that I purchased an illegal copy

Technically you did. Microsoft's OEM software cannot legally be purcahsed, it can only be supplied to an end user preinstalled on a machine (or, thanks to an earlier loophole that is now closed, accompanying peripheral hardware)

> Can some OEM's only be installed on specifice brands

It certainly used to be the case (and presumably still is) that the big manufacturers (Dell, HP for example) had 'branded' OEM software which made it easier for them to install it on their own hardware.

 

[58sniper]

And there is certainly a support issue. OEM versions are supported by the hardware vendor. If you need Windows help, and call your hardware vendor, and OEM didn't originally come on that machine, you're out of luck.

But then again, 2003 isn't supported anymore, IIRC.

Do you have your Tek-Tips.com Swag? I've got mine!

Stop by the new Tek-Tips group at LinkedIn.

 

[rwsjbs]

I appreciate everyone taking the time to educate me. The advise was very helpful. The vendor has agreed to take the software back.

Hope you guys have a great weekend.

Richard Scott