Cannot Activate PC After Using Windows Vista Anytime Upgrade
Security level: Public
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If the Windows Activation screen opens after using the Windows Vista Anytime Upgrade, perform an HP System Recovery to reset the computer to its original factory shipped state. Use the Windows Vista Anytime Upgrade disc only if you have purchased and have available a valid upgrade product key.

Figure 1: Windows Activation screen

Starting recovery from the Windows activation screen
Use the following steps to recover the computer starting from the Windows Activation screen:

On the Windows Activation window, click Access your computer with reduced functionality.
The default Web browser opens.
Type the following into the address field: c:\Windows.old\Windows\SMINST
Click Restore7.exe. The Recovery Manager Welcome screen appears.

Click Next.
On the Software Program Re-installation screen select No, and then click Next.
On the Hardware Re-installation screen select No, and then click Next.
On the screen that prompts for Microsoft System Restore select No, and then click Next.
The Recovery Manager prompts if you want to restore the computer to its original factory shipped condition. Click Yes, and then click Next.
The computer restarts and opens the Recovery Manager program.
If the recovery partition on the hard disk drive is functioning properly, the Welcome to the Recovery Manager screen appears. If the hard disk drive is damaged, a set of recovery discs is needed to run a System Recovery. Follow the instructions listed in the section, Starting the recovery from recovery discs .


CAUTION: Performing a System Recovery completely erases and reformats the hard disk drive - this includes deleting all data files you have created. System Recovery reinstalls the operating system, programs, and drivers. However, you must reinstall any software that was not installed on the computer at the factory. This includes software that came on CDs included in the computer accessory box, and software programs you installed since your purchase.
Click Next.
On the Microsoft System Restore screen select No, and then click Next.
Confirm that you want to run a System Recovery by selecting Yes, and then click Next.
The Recovery Manager gives you the option of backing up your data files. Backing up your files is recommended. To back up your files select Yes, and then click Next. Follow the onscreen instructions.
If you do not want to backup your files, select No, and then click Next.
After the System Recovery is complete, the computer restarts and continues into Windows setup. Complete the setup screens and wait until the computer finishes the setup. Then, turn off the computer, reconnect all peripheral devices, and turn on the computer.
Before using the computer, update and protect your computer. Reinstall any virus and security software that was installed before the System Recovery.
Reinstall any software applications that were added after puchasing the computer, and any files that were backed up.

Starting an HP System Recovery from recovery discs

NOTE: HP computers that ship with Microsoft Windows Vista do not come with recovery discs. Instead, they use a space (partition) on the hard disk drive to store the recovery information. The use of a hidden partition provides a convenient process that eliminates the use of recovery discs that may be lost or scratched. Recovery discs for Windows Vista can be created by using the Recovery Manager or are available from HP for a minimal cost.
Use the following steps to recover the computer from a set of recovery discs (either CDs or DVDs):

If the computer is on, insert the recovery disc labeled #1.
Turn off the computer.
Disconnect all connected devices (such as the Personal Media Drive, USB drives, printer, and fax), remove media from drives, and remove any recently added internal hardware. Do not disconnect the monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power cord.
Turn on the computer. The computer opens the Recovery Manager program.


CAUTION: Performing a System Recovery completely erases and reformat the hard disk drive - this includes deleting all data files you have created. System Recovery reinstalls the operating system, programs, and drivers. However, you must reinstall any software that was not installed on the computer at the factory. This includes software that came on CDs included in the computer accessory box, and software programs you installed since your purchase.
By default the Recovery Manager will be set to run a System Recovery from the inserted recovery disc. Click Next.
On the screen that prompts for Microsoft System Restore select No, and then click Next.
The Recovery Manager gives you the option of backing up your data files. Backing up your files is recommended. To back up files, select Yes, and then click Next. Follow the onscreen instructions.
If you do not want to backup your files, select No, and then click Next.
After the System Recovery is complete, the computer restarts and continues into Windows setup. Complete the setup screens and wait until the computer finishes the setup. Then, turn off the computer, reconnect all peripheral devices, and turn on the computer.
Before using the computer, update and protect your computer. Reinstall any virus and security software that was installed before the System Recovery.
Reinstall any software applications that were after puchasing the computer, and any files that were backed up.