Problem with Windows 7 SP1 installation
Problem with Windows 7 SP1 installation
I've been attempting to set up Windows on my friend's computer for about a week. Every time I try, something fails. The installer keeps saying drivers are missing and doesn't show the hard drive. It appears in the BIOS and works in the command prompt using "diskpart" to list disks. I've tried cleaning the drive and loading drivers for the host controller, using various Windows discs. The best I've managed is a modified version of Windows 7 Service Pack 1. I don't want to install a pirated copy, but Microsoft insists on an OEM OS and Dell wants payment for the disk. It's frustrating because Microsoft would provide it free, yet a manufacturer charges. Anyone know how to bypass this issue? Should I extract drivers from SP1 and try a different installation? Or do you have access to Dell's OEM Windows 7 Home Premium? I'm really confused here.
If you install Windows 7 from a retail disk, it won’t work with the OEM key for Windows 7 Home Premium. You must use the Dell OEM media to activate, and it will install properly. The main issue might be missing the correct AHCI drivers for your motherboard—this can usually be fixed by loading drivers via USB during installation. Since you’ve got a modified version of Windows, it’s likely the drive is functional.