Win 98 CD

I have a Win 98 CD which i have written on it "To be distributed with a new PC only ". What is the difference betwenn this version of Win 98SE and the other normal Win98 CD's.

Thanks

 

Some of these CDs are known as an OEM disk. In many cases you will be unable to uninstall/reinstall components or have full use of tools like SFC, and cannot extract one file. Compaq restore disks are one example of disks which fail to describe the non functional aspects until you follow help files on troubleshooting , then your only option even when using a custom restore is to return your system to an "as purchased" condition. Having been through this problem many users will realize the OEM disks are almost worthless except for the fact that we can always use another coaster.

 

rcerrato

Just because a disk is OEM doesn't make it worthless. The disks you're talking about are recovery disks, not installation disks.

Sounds like the one that maxmangion is talking about is simply a WIN98 disk that would come with a generic computer, maybe custom built. The only difference between that and what you would buy in the store is that there is no manual with it.

 

If this OEM CD has a M$ logo, it is a full install CD. However, the setup program is coded to only install onto a formatted disk, or one without an apparent OS.

 

The biggest real difference in an OEM CD is that after the install is completed the xxxxx-OEM-xoxoxox-xooox number shown on the Computer system properties page tells MicroSoft who "Owns" the support for this copy of windows.

Often there will be a Contact info for your computer mfg. - If your system was a generic build there will not be contact info usually.

Microsoft offeres a limited amount of free tech support for retail copies. - They only support OEM editions on a fee basis.

Don't ever kid yourself, It's allways about the money!