Am student using windows AutoCAD at school. Bought Mac Pro and want to run bootcamp for Win partition, but have not purchased Windows yet. Two questions: Win 7 or Win 8 for running AutoCAD? Full version or do I need an OEM version. Or do I abandon Windows and just download CAD for Mac?
MacBook Pro, OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.2)
Tough one ....
I would choose AutoCad over the alternatives, the Windows version of Autocad over the Mac one, and (the bit you won't like) a Windows machine over a Mac to run it on.
Wish I could do both, but if given the choice I will always go with Mac. Now, what to do about being able to run AutoCAD. Thanks anyhow!
Then I would use Boot Camp and install the Windows version, but you should check if the Mac version works for you first.
Okay...Windows 8 not supported. But that still leaves the question. Windows 7 full versions or the OEM?
OEM will be fine.
My understanding is that an OEM version is proprietary to the computer you install it on and the disclaimer states that you have no windows support. Not sure what that means but it is all very confusing. Does "full version" mean that it is can be installed on the new partition? And how much space should I give the partition knowing I am going to be running AutoCAD? Please help the rookie...
An unbranded OEM gets support from MS, but you can only install (or reinstall) on one machine.
Make the partition at least 100GB
OEM = original equipment manufacturer and should only be since you didnt manufacture your machine you should pay for the full version. Or am I wrong? 😕
And to youngmacdonald as well.
Clarification, the 'OEM' disks are for specific manufacturers and should not be used, but they are not sold at retail outlets. The disks commonly called OEM are properly referred to as 'System Builder' disk.
But who really cares about the labels any more.
Apparently alot of people in the music industry get quite upset as do filmmakers, Software companies, FBI, ETC Why not download a pirate copy? 😉
You know why.
youngmacdonald wrote:
OEM = original equipment manufacturer and should only be since you didnt manufacture your machine you should pay for the full version. Or am I wrong? 😕
You are wrong.
OEM could have two definitions. One, the branded computer manufacturers like Dell, HP, etc. These OEMs are created for specific hardware and will only work on that hardware. These branded OEMs are pre-installed by the manufacturera.
OEM also refers to full System Builder versions of Windows. These are available from retailers for people who buy computers/hardware that do not include preinstalled Windows operating systems. These can be installed by anyone on any compatable computer that does not already have an operating system installed. These are not branded. Since your Bootcamped computer does not have a Windows operating system already installed, you can use this OEM version.
BobTheFisherman, if I am to understand you correctly I could purchase the OEM version, equally I could install a full version, yes? Is there anything that I should be aware of when running bootcamp, and the Windows installation? Or is it pretty straight forward?
You can use either version, as for Boot Camp, download, print and READ the directions. It is not straightforward and there are possible pitfalls.
Don't even start until you have a current, tested backup.
An OEM Windows installation disk has the exact same content as a retail version. The difference is in the licensing. OEM versions are tied to the original machine upon which they are installed. Retail licenses can transfer to different machines.
To Windows or not to Windows
