XP to Windows 7 using Viao Upgrade CD

[dazzac1965]

Hi,

I have a Laptop using XP, The one in my signature, but I am thinking of upgrading to Windows 7.

Could I use A Sony Viao upgrade disc? (it's not registered). This is an unused disc that my daughter won't use.

[Tootech]

Could I use A Sony Viao upgrade disc

 

Sorry, but no you can't. If it branded specifically for a Sony then it has to be used on that Sony. Part of Microsoft's rules I'm afraid.

 

The other problem is that there is no upgrade path from XP to 7, only Vista to 7.

 

You are best off buying an OEM copy of Windows 7.

 

Check your machine is compatible before you do by using the Upgrade Advisor.

 

Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor

[dazzac1965]

 

You are best off buying an OEM copy of Windows 7.

 

Check your machine is compatible before you do by using the Upgrade Advisor.

 

Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor

 

OK I ran the Windows 7 advisor, & hardware seems all OK except these issues:

 

The report said I would need a custom installation does that mean a complete fresh installation?

 

Outlook Express no longer supported. (that I do understand)

 

ATI Desktop Component

version 6.14.10.5186

ATI Technologies, Inc. Known issues You may experience issues running this program on Windows 7.

 

Virtualization technology not supported Your PC does not support hardware assisted virtualization technology.

 

Extra 15 GB of free space For best performance, make sure your PC has 15 GB of free space before installing Windows XP Mode.

 

 

I'm not sure what they mean. Are they really that important? if I'm upgrading to Windows 7 why would I want to install XP Mode?

 

I do have an html copy of the report, but it won't let me upload it.

Any help appreciated.

[Jelly Bean]

The Vaio will have issues if you install Windows 7 and may not run correctly or display correctly.

 

XP mode is also included in Vista.This is used to run programs that are compatible with XP and not Winows 7 or Vista.So you could run older programs and games.

[dazzac1965]

Thank you.

 

What do these things mean?

 

ATI Desktop Component

version 6.14.10.5186

ATI Technologies, Inc. Known issues You may experience issues running this program on Windows 7.

 

Virtualization technology not supported Your PC does not support hardware assisted virtualization technology.

 

Do you think it would advisable to upgrade to Windows 7?

 

I'm concidering installing it om the Gateway Laptop.

[Tootech]

need a custom installation does that mean a complete fresh installation?

Yes.

 

ATI don't list Windows 7 drivers for that chipset, but I have read that the Vista drivers work. Thats 32 bit btw - really don't know about 64 bit.

 

Can't advise you any more than that, if it was mine, I'd have a go at it.

[dazzac1965]

Yes.

 

ATI don't list Windows 7 drivers for that chipset, but I have read that the Vista drivers work. Thats 32 bit btw - really don't know about 64 bit.

 

Can't advise you any more than that, if it was mine, I'd have a go at it.

 

OK Thanks. As the laptop was pre-installed with vista basic, should I install that first? or is this getting too long winded & complicated?

 

I've seen Vista to Windows 7 upgrade discs but not for Vista Basic. I am tempted to upgrade to Windows 7, as I'm not confident that all my drivers on the Gateway Laptop are correct. I have seen on other forums where people have asked for drivers for this model Gateway laptop it seems a bit of a minefield!

Yes its 32 bit, not 64.

[dazzac1965]

Yes.

 

ATI don't list Windows 7 drivers for that chipset, but I have read that the Vista drivers work. Thats 32 bit btw - really don't know about 64 bit.

 

Can't advise you any more than that, if it was mine, I'd have a go at it.

 

 

I took a chance & upgraded to Windows 7. Yippeeeee!!!!! all my problems have gone. But it has left me with XP still installed. On boot up it prompts me to select win 7 or XP. Is there a way I can get rid of this XP installation? Under Win 7, "Disc Clean up" does not remove this.