Local Radar

Technology Tips

There is a ton of stuff going on this week. Check back often to see if you can keep up with all of it!

By: Freddy Petersen
EdgfieldDaily.com Columnist
web posted March 6, 2006

Today’s question: Hey Freddy, I am thinking on putting in a new motherboard, does this mean I need a new license?

Well I’m no expert on this but I have found a few things out that even surprised me!

This was pulled form the Microsoft web site:

Q. What is a refurbished PC? A. Computer system that has had substantial hardware modifications that may require a new operating system license — because the modifications have essentially created a "new" PC.

Generally, you can upgrade/replace all of the hardware components on the PC and maintain the original Windows desktop operating system OEM license with the exception of an upgrade or replacement of the motherboard (an upgrade or replacement of the motherboard is considered a new PC).

If none of the previous article makes sense, you can go to the Microsoft site and register for a Free USB Flash drive and Microsoft will send you all you need to know to help you understand the O/S license information

Microsoft has made free USB flash drives available stamped with a Microsoft logo for signing up for a license information pack. The USB drive itself contains information on Microsoft licensing. Simply click on the "ad" on the right, sign in with a Hotmail or MSN address, and fill out the form. Note that you may need to use IE, rather than an alternative browser such as Firefox.

Download of the Week: DriveImage XML   -- Of course it’s Free!

DriveImage XML is a program for imaging and backing up partitions and logical drives, which allows you to:
•    Browse these images, view and extract files
•    Restore these images to the same or a different drive
•    Copy directly from drive to drive
•    Schedule automatic backups with your Task Scheduler

Image creation uses Microsoft's Volume Shadow Services (VSS), allowing you to create safe "hot images" even from drives currently in use. Images are stored in XML files, allowing you to process them with 3rd party tools. Restore images to drives without having to reboot.

DriveImage XML runs under Windows XP Home, XP Professional and Windows Server 2003 only. The program will backup, image and restore drives formatted with FAT 12, 16, 32 and NTFS. 

Technology Tips are provided by Freddy Petersen. All content is the advise/opinion of the author and not EdgefieldDaily.com. Freddy Petersen can be reached at fpetersen@gmail.com

Featured Dining

Hong Kong

---

Heritage Jubilee 2006
Volunteers may contact Chairperson Joel Jolly. Phone: 803-637-9971
or Email here