Cheapest OS for Parallels

I switched to a Mac a few weeks ago and am using A22. It works fine, but I would like the functionality of PC L4. I found Parallels for $30 after rebates, but I need a cheap OS, even XP. Where is the cheapest one I could pick up?
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Jeremy said:
I switched to a Mac a few weeks ago and am using A22. It works fine, but I would like the functionality of PC L4. I found Parallels for $30 after rebates, but I need a cheap OS, even XP. Where is the cheapest one I could pick up?
Did you try the 'eB..' auction site? You should be able to find a copy of XP for less than $50.00.
"As any translator will attest, a literal translation is no translation at all."
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Find what's called an OEM copy of XP (but make sure it's original, not a copy of someone else's disc.) Or if you have any association with University, you can often get a license for cheap.
OEM discs aren't meant to be sold on shelves, don't include boxes or instructions, but legally come much cheaper.
"The whole modern world has divided itself into Conservatives and Progressives. The business of Progressives is to go on making mistakes. The business of Conservatives is to prevent mistakes from being corrected."- G.K. Chesterton
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Microsoft TechNet has some time limited free evaluations:
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/default.aspx
For example, Windows 7 Enterprise 90 day trial.
Observation: OEM Windows intended for installation on new personal computer for resale with system assembler responsible for end user support.
Some stores stock OEM Windows; e.g. Microcenter offers Windows 7 Home Premium for $ 109.99
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I didn't think you could reload OEM's on an additional computer?
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That is correct. An OEM license is tied to the machine it was sold with. It cannot legally be transferred, no matter what a web site might say. You cannot ship a cable or disk drive or other part of the original system with the OEM "recovery disk" and transfer the license. The license must stay with the original system. Yes, Microsoft tends to look the other way at some sites that have an otherwise legitimate relationship with them. But not always. If you try to buy such software on eBay, you are inviting an encounter with the eBay investigative department. Don't do it. It is not legal.
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Microsoft has OEM System Builder license details (for sale to third party):
http://oem.microsoft.com/script/contentPage.aspx?pageid=552857
For Information Technology professionals, Microsoft Technet offers annual subscription for unlimited time evaluation.
Some Microsoft licenses include virtualization use right.
Keep Smiling [:)]
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Before considering OEM anything, read the following:
http://www.microsoft.com/About/Legal/EN/US/IntellectualProperty/UseTerms/Default.aspx
and for OEM system builder licensing:
http://oem.microsoft.com/script/contentpage.aspx?pageid=552816
Make sure you understand what it means to be a OEM system builder. Don't try to circumvent the legalities. Do not try to undermine intellectual property laws.
Go before God and ask Him what is right.
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