TechSpot - PC Technology News and Analysis

Look here for a workaround using a Vista Upgrade DVD

http://www.dailytech.com/article.aspx?newsid=5932

Good info on the upgrade.

Those of you contemplating the upgrade; consider the OEM version as well.

There are four major differences between the OEM version and the upgrade version.

1. OEM can only do a clean install, where the upgrade was designed to only upgrade.
2. OEM is cheaper than upgrade. www.newegg.com currently sells Vista Ultimate OEM for $199 - About $30 less than the upgrade.
3. OEM's license states the install is tied to the system board and can never be transferred to another system board. It would appear Microsoft is not enforcing this so far which makes OEM a better deal than upgrade as long as you don't mind a clean install...
4. The OEM license does not provide support from Microsoft. The system builder or end consumer are responsible for their own support.

Thanks Rick,
I haven't actually seen a copy of Vista OEM. Only the Upgrade and the Full install versions are in local stores here. Wal-Mart's Vista display was sold out yesterday