Windows XP, the OEM version

Hello Staff/readers,

I'm considering purchasing Windows XP, Home Edition, OEM version ( "OEM, or Original Equipment Manufacturer, software is completely electronic, there are no manuals or retail boxes to manufacture and distribute - All you receive is the CD-ROM of the software, except in the case of operating systems - where you receive a small start-up guide ") at AtomicPark.com. This version is almost 50% LESS THAN the standard full version with all the manuals, etc.
Can anyone advise me as to their experience with the OEM version of Win XP ?

Sincerely, a frequent client of Windows BBS, but now a little confused?
Scott Dietert

 

So you're saying that AtomicPark sells you a booklet for about $80 and doesn't include a disk?
Makes no sense.
There's quite a few places where you can get XP OEM for about $80 if you purchase some hardware at the same time. A ram chip, or mouse qualifies.
The OEM version is identical to the retail, without the packaging, and without any end user support from Microsoft.

 

Thank you Reboot,
I did not make myself clear; Atomic Park will provide to me exactly what you describe: 1) the complete software on a cd-rom, but with 2) no detailed operating manuals. And yes they include a small amount of hardware; this is the standard OEM package. Have you used such an OEM package? Any regrets for not having purchased the full price edition?

My apologies for your confusion.
Sincerely,
Scott

 

With such places as windowsbbs, and pcmech.com there's no need for retail support. OEM is the only way I buy stuff (well, actually wholesale as a VAR).
I make a point of purchasing RAM with OEM software, one can never have too much RAM.
Even with the manuals and MS support, for the home user, it's just not worth the extra money.
If this were a business expense, then the added support might be considered, depending on how competent the IT dept is
When you have only one or two systems, and you are the tech support, OEM is cheaper, you learn more, and in the end, get exactly what you want.

 

Good afternoon Reboot,
Thank you for your vote of confidence in OEM software; actually with help like yours and others at BBS, any complex "techy" questions/answers I may have are just a few strokes of the keyboard away.
All the best,
Scott