Got the "Upgrade" version to work on Macbook running Parallels. Annoying microsoft really tries to make it hard when using a purchased Vista Upgrade (Requires a version of XP) and when it doesn't work the installer suggests you buy a higher version of Vista. C'mon!

This is how I did it (thanks to the Parallels Visualization Blog):

1) Get a modern licenced version of Parallels and install it on OS/X
2) Create a Vista partition in OS/X with at least 512Mb memory and 20 GB disk space
3) Boot the legitimate Vista DVD upgrade from the Parallels partition (when the Parallels session boots, it trys to start the DVD in any case)
4) Click "Install Now"
5) Do not enter a Product key when prompted - if you try to you will get an ACPI, BSOD or can't upgrade error.
6) You will see a list of Vista editions. Select the one you have bought.
7) Install Vista normally - though it will be a trial copy with no serial number, only valid for 30 days.
8) Once the install is complete (which takes circa 30 minutes), restart the DVD-based setup from within the demo Windows Vista.
9) Perform an in-place upgrade.
10) Enter your Product Key when prompted
11) Let Vista go through the upgrade a second time.

Didn't seem that I needed XP though with this method. So now I can explore this OS for work purposes. Exciting yes?

Frantic Mantis new album? Haven't touched the files for a few months - want to redo some things and write some new songs.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, April 04, 2007 at 6:59 PM. You can skip to the end and leave a response.