PC for the parents - noob question

[damage424]

Hello, I'm in the market for a PC for my parents. I don't want to build this myself and looking into Dell and such companies.

Is it possible to get a 32 bit Windows 7 for their PC and also upgrade my Vista 32 bit to Windows 7 32 bit using the same CD? Also, if I get Microsoft Office for their PC, can I also install that on my person PC? Thanks.

 

[lxskllr]

No to Windows, and legally, no to Office. I'd suggest saving the money and giving Open Office a try. I use it for everything. It's free and functional.

 

[Blain]

OpenOffice is free and works very well.

 

[0roo0roo]

no, one license per pc..obviously. esp an oem os like dell or such. its linked to the hardware.

get your parents a decently snappy dell. its all about a snappy experience. they don't cost much these days. make sure not to skimp on the screen, i suggest a 24, older folks navigate guis and have an easier time reading with a big screen where you can increase dpi...old eyes and such

 

[novice]

This would be a very nice system for parents purposes for a very reasonable price: $389 + shipping.
http://www.techbargains.com/news_displayItem.cfm/193366
Windows 7, nice 20" monitor, E5300 Dual Core, 2 GB ram, does have a PCI-Ex16 slot in case you want to add a decent video card (so you can play games when you visit). Only drawback is a small tower, and a 300W PSU.
I like mine, but mine came with a Core 2 duo E7400 a year ago. I threw a Radeon HD4670 in my system and it has performed flawlessly.

 

[Lonyo]

If you get Office, it may come with multiple licenses, depending on which version you get.
I think the Home/Student version comes with a 3 user license which allows install on up to 3 computers.

 

[mfenn]

If you get Office, it may come with multiple licenses, depending on which version you get.
I think the Home/Student version comes with a 3 user license which allows install on up to 3 computers.

From the Home and Student EULA:

a. Licensed Device. You may install one copy of the software on three
licensed devices in your household for use by people who reside there. The
software is not licensed for use in any commercial, non-profit, or revenuegenerating
business activities.

So yes, 3 licenses, but only if all computers are in the same household.

FWIW, I think Google Docs (and spreadsheet) is more than sufficient for the vast majority of users.