Upgrade overkill…

We discuss problems that can be encountered when upgrading a computer, and what should be considered BEFORE you begin to spend money on it:
motherboard considerations…
hardware and software compatibility issues…
do you know EVERYTHING you need to about the product(s) and procedures?

Our “Website of the Week” is http://NationalHearingTest.org

(And, also consider visiting http://Starkey.com/online-hearing-test …)

Windows Upgrade Offer Registration Now Available

“…registration is officially open for the Windows Upgrade Offer…If you purchase or have purchased an eligible Windows 7 PC anytime between June 2, 2012 and January 31, 2013 you will be able to purchase an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for only $14.99 (U.S.)…

“Registration for the Windows Upgrade Offer is only for those who buy an eligible Windows 7 PC between June 2nd and January 31st, 2013.

“Did you already buy an awesome Windows 7 PC prior to June 2nd (or have a Windows 7 PC not eligible for the offer)?…Starting on October 26th, you will be able to upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for $39.99!”

http://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/08/20/windows-upgrade-offer-registration-now-available.aspx

https://windowsupgradeoffer.com/

 

Pricing for Windows 8 could win your money

Microsoft is trying to make it very worth your while to upgrade to Windows 8:

…Starting at general availability, if your PC is running Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7 you will qualify to download an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for just $39.99 in 131 markets. And if you want, you can add Windows Media Center for free through the “add features” option within Windows 8 Pro after your upgrade.

And now, the “catch”:

When you use Windows.com to purchase an upgrade to Windows 8 Pro…

I am familiar with some upgrading scenarios and procedures that did not end well, so I warn you to CREATE THE BOOTABLE USB AND/OR DVD!!!

After your download finishes, you can choose to proceed with the upgrade (“Install now”) or install later either from your desktop or by creating your own media. If you choose to create your own media, you will be able to create your own bootable USB or .ISO file which can be burned onto a DVD for upgrade and backup purposes. If you prefer, you also have the option of purchasing a backup DVD for $15 plus shipping and handling.

If you prefer to shop at a local store, a packaged DVD version of the upgrade to Windows 8 Pro will be available for $69.99 during this promotion.

In the past, some decided to upgrade their operating system via a download from the internet. The DID NOT create installation media (DVDs). The installation procedure failed, and everything on their hard drive was lost: including their data, programs, and the operating system (Windows).

This upgrade promotion for Windows 8 Pro both online and at retail runs through January 31st, 2013.

 

Windows 8 for only $15? YES!…(maybe)

I heard that this was coming, had been watching for it, and (as of yet) haven’t seen it…but, I found the info:

BEFORE YOU PURCHASE A NEW COMPUTER, check to see if you can upgrade to Windows 8 for about 15-bucks.

“…The Windows Upgrade Offer provides consumers who buy an eligible Windows 7 PC the option to purchase a downloadable upgrade to Windows 8 Pro for an estimated retail price of just $14.99 (U.S.)…

“This program…is available for consumers buying new Windows 7 PCs that are preinstalled with Windows 7 Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional or Ultimate and include a matching and valid OEM Certificate of Authenticity. The Windows 7 PC must be purchased new during the eligibility period June 2, 2012–Jan. 31, 2013, and redeemed before the program expiration at the end of February 2013…”

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I have been using Windows 8, and feel the need to warn you that I believe some will LOVE the new interface…and for others, it can interfere with productivity. As much as you can, be sure you are ready to be committed to Windows 8 before you install it.