Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Sony® Windows® 7 operating system upgrade program for VAIO® computers.

Listed below are FAQs about the Sony Windows 7 operating system upgrade program for VAIO computers. To determine the level of Windows 7 upgrade support for your computer model and if applicable, place an order for an Upgrade Kit or Companion Disc, visit the Sony Windows 7 Upgrade Web site at https://ebiz3.mentormediacorp.com/Sony_USWindows7Upgrade/country.aspx.

NOTES:

• Not all VAIO computer models qualify for Windows 7 upgrade support.
• These FAQs apply to the Sony Windows 7 Upgrade Web site and also are posted on that Web site.

Which Microsoft® operating systems will qualify for the Upgrade Program?
To be eligible for the Program, you have to purchase a new PC between June 26th 2009 and January 31st 2010. The PC must come with a valid Windows VISTA® Home Premium, Windows VISTA Business or Windows VISTA Ultimate Certificate of Authenticity (COA) attached. In addition, they must also have Microsoft Windows VISTA SP1 or SP2 OR a Windows XP Downgrade with Service Pack 3 installed.

What is the goal of the Upgrade Option Program?
The goal of this Upgrade Option Program is to provide users a free or low-cost path to upgrade their eligible Windows VISTA PCs to the new Windows 7 operating system.

Will an upgrade from a 32bit Windows VISTA to a 64bit Windows 7 be supported
No, an upgrade from a 32bit Windows VISTA to a 64bit Windows 7 will not be supported.

Will a cross language upgrade be blocked by the SETUP routine?
Yes, a cross language upgrade will be blocked by the SETUP routine as it is not supported.

How do I activate my upgrade?
Qualifying end users who have received the upgrade media can activate their upgraded operating system by using the Product Activation Key supplied with the upgrade media's Certificate of Authenticity (COA). Therefore, end users who receive the upgrade media should retain the upgrade media's COA and associated Product Activation Key for future use.

What should I expect to receive in the upgrade kit?
You should receive an upgrade media, a media holder, an insert manual and the Certificate of Authenticity (COA).

How much time do I have to submit an order before session time out?
The time out session is set at 30 minutes which should allow ample time for order entry.

What will happen if I have provided an incorrect credit card information?
Our system will validate your credit card information with the merchant bank. If the transaction is unsuccessful, a notification email with a link for you to re-enter the correct credit card information will be sent to you.

Will Windows 7 be available to the open market once it is made available on 22nd October? (Release date is subjected to change)
Yes, it will eventually be available in the open market as determined by Microsoft.

Will there be any price difference if I buy the upgrade software from authorized dealers instead?
The upgrade software is only available online during this program eligibility period. We are unable to advise if it will continue to be available from the authorized dealers after this period nor can we advise if there will be any price differences.

Will my credit card be charged immediately after I place an order or right after the order has been shipped?
Your credit card will be charged upon release of the selected language of Windows 7 and the successful validation of Proof of Purchase.

My relative/friend is using Windows Vista. Will I be able to buy the upgrade software for them as well?
Yes, as long as they are eligible for this program. Please refer to the Terms & Conditions for more details.

I have purchased my laptop running on Windows Vista in February 09. Why am I not eligible for the upgrade?
We regret to inform you that only PCs purchased during the eligibility period (26 June 2009 ~ 31 Jan 2010) can qualify for the upgrade program.

My current Windows Vista PC is in English language. Will I be able to upgrade to Windows 7 in other languages?
No, the upgrade media must be of the same language version as the pre-installed Windows Vista OS.

I have misplaced my disc. Will any replacement be made?
We regret to inform you that no replacement will be made.

I've received the upgrade software. However, I have decided not to install the software. Will I be able to return it and get a refund?
We regret to inform you that no returns will be accepted once an order has been shipped.

Will I be able to cancel my order?
Cancellation of orders are not allowed.