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General discussion

Major product key installation problem

Jan 15, 2015 2:31AM PST

so I am trying to install Windows 8.1 on my Apple iMac. I have successfully partitioned my hard drive to the point where Windows wants me to put in the product code. They show an example of 25 numbers, 5 each...xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx
The problem is that the only product code on the box is 22 digits long as follows xxxxxxxxxx-x-xxxxxxx-xxxx
No matter how I do it, I can't continue...I'm guessing because of the wrong number of digits. Any help greatly appreciated, Bill

Discussion is locked

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There's some trouble right there.
Jan 15, 2015 2:41AM PST

I no longer partition a drive prior to booting my Windows DVD. Also, that product key issue was read about on a torrent crack 8.1 image, so time to tell the source their 8.1 is broken?
Bob

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PS. iMac
Jan 15, 2015 2:43AM PST

There's more going on than what most can guess. There are too many versions of the OSX now as well a Bootcamp. If the 8.1 install fails, my bet is you're back to Apple to discuss what's up. I know it works on the current version of OS X and bootcamp so I'd get to Apple next.
Bob

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WHY you need to get to Apple forums
Jan 15, 2015 2:51AM PST
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8.1
Jan 15, 2015 3:25AM PST

So I am back to my normal Apple desktop and on the phone with Apple who are researching this 23/25 digit product code issue...be right back....

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8.1
Jan 15, 2015 3:57AM PST

Same post as in 7 forum, Back to my normal OS, Going back to Best Buy for a chat....Don't suppose someone has a tech number for Microsoft?
Thanks, Bill

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Remember I can't tell if this is the BCA or Windows asking.
Jan 15, 2015 4:09AM PST

We have BCA, Bootcamp versions and issues. Then we can skip the serial number and let it go into a trial mode so Bootcamp drivers can be installed which could correct screen resolution issues.

There is so much detail required to nail this that I fear you need on location support.
Bob

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8.1
Jan 15, 2015 6:53AM PST

All solved! Thanks, all. Bill

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From your other post.
Jan 15, 2015 7:29AM PST

"
Went back to Best Buy. My box not only had no Product Key but no "We
Come to Microsoft" Introductory Booklet, just the two DVDs. What is funny or sad....Is that the last time I downloaded any program disk from Microsoft was about 15 years ago.......when they used to put the product code on the side of the box. Best Buy was very surprised and gave me another box and $25 gift certificate so I was happy enough and now install is in the final stage of personalization and settings....now I have to install AV. Will probably do MSE for now thanks all. Will use the windows 8 forum now! Thanks, Bill
"

Where did you get that key you mentioned before?
Bob

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As far as I know,
Jan 16, 2015 1:50AM PST

it's always been 25. Was the box open when you got it? The key should have been in a card/pamphlet like inside the box with the OS disc. At least that was how mine was packaged.

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Sorry I didn't read...
Jan 16, 2015 1:53AM PST

all the postings before replied.