Microsoft 2 User Manual

Volume Activation 2.0 Operations Guide

should first begin by examining the Application event log for Event ID 8209. The

reason for the validation failure is listed in this event.

After a computer is reactivated, it must visit the Genuine Microsoft Software Web

site at

http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=64187

for a validation to change the

Non-Genuine state to Genuine.

Activation of Windows OEM Computers

Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 have different usage rights based on the

channel you use to purchase them. Generally, the product usage rights for Original

Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) licensed products prohibit you from converting an

OEM installation of an operating system to a volume licensed installation. However,

there are exceptions. If one of the exceptions applies, you can change an OEM

version of Window Vista or Windows Server 2008 to a volume licensed version.

One exception that allows you to change an OEM installation to a volume licensed

installation is if you purchase Software Assurance within 90 days of purchasing the

OEM product. This exception applies only to Windows Vista or Windows Server

2008. Another exception is if the OEM product is the same product for which you

have a volume licensing agreement. Volume licensing customers have reimaging

rights and may be eligible to upgrade an OEM installation using volume licensing

media. For more information about imaging rights, see

http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=110334

Computers obtained through OEM channels that have an ACPI_SLIC table in the

system BIOS are required to have a valid Windows marker in the same ACPI_SLIC

table. The appearance of the Windows marker is important for Volume License

customers who are planning to use Windows Vista Volume License media to re-

image or upgrade an OEM system through the re-imaging rights they have in their

volume license agreement. Computers that have an ACPI_SLIC table without a valid

Windows marker generate an error when a volume edition of Windows Vista is

installed.

You cannot activate these systems with KMS, but you can activate them using a

MAK or a retail key. You can also contact the OEM for a replacement motherboard