Install Problems- Please help!

I have a new IMAC INTEL core 2 duo with the latest version of Parallels 5 installed with update. I bought a Window 7 Home Premium at the local Micron store that was a full version "new OEM system builder pack" in the 32 bit version. Installation goes well until it tries to start up Windows and I get the following error message: "The unattended answer file contains an invalid product key. Either remove the invalid key or provide a valid product key in the unattended answer file to proceed with windows installation." I've repeatedly put in the key from the label in the box, but the same problem occurs. What do I do? Is it bad software? Does the fact that they sold me a new "OEM system builder pack" a problem? Any ideas? Thanks!

 

Hi Artsguy,

I recall having the same issue when trying to install a clean Windows 7. The way I was able to get around this was to install Vista first and then install Windows 7 as an update afterwards or more to the point when I updated to Wndows 7 I took the option to wipe the Vista install (where during the process it moves the vista c:\windows to windows.old which can then be removed) so essenially, you have a clean Windows 7 installation.

This worked for me and has been running fine since.

I presume if you have Xp the same should apply

Regards
Kevin

 

Thanks, Kevin! Actually, I got things to work quite well with Window 7...finally! I noticed after hitting the start button that there were two virtual machines listed, but not working...a Windows 7 and a Windows XP. I only had a Windows 7 disc, so I don't know how it got there! After eliminating the XP machine, the Windows 7 install accepted my key and installed just fine. Go figure.....but it works well! Thanks for the reply!