Windows 7

[wiseguy3501]

Hi, I recieved my upgrade disk yesterday and jumped on moving with it right away.

First of all I was thrilled when I realized that it contained both 32-bit and 64-bit software.  Reason being that my laptop's(L505D-S5965) hardware is 64-bit however the OEM Windows Vista installed was 32-bit.  So considering that I do fairly heavy photo and video editing on my laptop, it would be great to have 64-bit and toss in some more RAM.

I reviewed the installation instructions for my model(http://www.csd.toshiba.com/cgi-bin/tais/support/jsp/bulletin.jsp?soid=2455564) and proceeded with the correct path.  As it states, "If using a Windows 7 Upgrade Offer media provided by Toshiba, start the installation process by booting from the Windows 7 disc and following the on-screen instructions.  You will be prompted to select the 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows 7.  If you're not sure which version to select, you can review Microsoft's frequently asked questions about 32-bit and 64-bit Windows here."

Problem is, I get no prompt to select 32-bit or 64-bit.

I've tried everything that I can think of, and have searched and searched for an answer by every means possible.  I can't find anything.  I also called Toshiba Tech Support, that was a waste of time.  Started out that I was told that they only sent me the 32-bit(which is incorrect, states on the DVD that it is both, plus you can see the 64-bit files on the disk via explorer, plus this site states that its both).  Then I was told that my hardware isn't 64-bit and that the prompt didn't come up automatically because of that(I asked him to verify that and he returned stating that I was correct and that the hardware is 64-bit).  Sorry, I'm not trying to make this a complaint about Tech Support.  I was just highly frustrated with the lack of knowledge this person showed.  One thing that came out of it is that I was given a case number and will be contacted later about the problem.

Anyways, I would be greatful if anyone could give me some ideas on this problem.

[cee_64 · Accepted solution]

You'll need to delete your current Windows Vista installtion from the hard drive then boot to the WIndows 7 Install Disk to get the 64bit prompt.  DO NOT try to insert the Product Key at this time.  Once the installation has completed you need to follow this guide to upgrade the Windows 7 you just installed so you can enter the Product Key. 

[wiseguy3501]

Thank you very much cee_64!

Your advice worked flawlessly.  I simply booted from the disk, formatted the drive, turned off the laptop, booted again, and was prompted as I should have been.  I followed your directions to the guide and used the first method.  Worked perfectly!

Gotta love when an independent person can trump Tech Support.....

[cee_64]

Glad it workd for you. 

[wiseguy3501]

Now I've got one last question.....

My laptop came with Microsoft Works preinstalled.  The detailed specs page shows it under the Third-party software listings.  So without installing all of the unneeded bundled software that it came with to find it, does anyone know what install its contained in, or if I can even replace it now?

I used to use it for work on a regular basis.  But am already missing it.

[cee_64]

Not with a clean install.  It's not included on the Apps and Drivers disk or available to download.  The only way to get it is by restoring the system to it's factory out of box state.  From what I understand this is something tha Microsoft forces on the vendors to prevent people from installing it on other computers.  Hopefully you don't have a lot of MS Works files that you need to access.  You can download Sun's Free OpenOffice Suite which is a million times better than Works.  The problem is that it won't open Works files.  If you really need MS WOrks check out some of the Surplus Software sites on the web.  You can usually pick up a copy for $10 -20.

[wiseguy3501]

Dang.....thats crappy.  I don't have too many Works files, however I have to use Works.  Will have to get my hands on it.

Thanks again!

[cee_64]

No problem. 

[TanyaSmith]

I'm not sure if this is where I need to be, but my problem is with tech support.  I just purchased my laptop 02/05/10.  I was trying to register it online today.  I used my half hour lunch break to do this.  In that time the online system bounced me back and forth from the registration page to the parts and serial number registration page.  I finally had to resort to calling the 800 number (at this time I am back on the clock).

My first contact was with Ronald.  After he took my serial number he wanted to put me on hold for a couple of minutes.  I told him that if he got back and I wasn't there it was because I had to answer a call.  I did receive a call, put my call with Ronald on hold and when I got back the call was disconnected. I wasn't happy having to call them in the first place.

My second contact was with Francis. By this call I was very upset. I told him what had just happened and that I did not want to be put on hold for a lenght of time, and just wanted to register my laptop also stating that if this is the type of support I would be getting I'm sorry that I boutht a Toshiba.  Once again I received a call and instead of putting the call with Francis on hold, I told him I would just lay the phone down and answer the other line.  When I got back the phone was dead again. 

Does anyone know where I can file a complaint at Toshiba about the customer service department and the online registration?

[cee_64]

TanyaSmith, you should have started a new thread rather than hijacking an existing one on a completely unrelated issue. 

And no, Toshiba doesn't have any Complaint Department that can be reached by mere users.  They aren't important enough.