FWIW, the decision to not include a CD isn't necessarily a Dell decision. Likely it is a MSFT issue--they don't want millions of OS CDs floating around out there, showing up on eBay, etc. Their big-OEM license says the OEM must use a hidden partition technique and only supply disks when a user specifically requests.
Please cite the source for: "Their big-OEM license says the OEM must use a hidden partition..." I think the main motivator is the few pennies the OEMs save on the CDs. Additionally Microsoft gives the OEMs options as to how the restore is made possible. Do not assume because most do it that Microsoft mandates it.
Irene; It does happen sometimes. I have to wonder when something is stated as fact with no apparent source given.
No, just shows they are willing to provide one to the few that feel they really need it and do not want to take the time to burn out their own from the files that are readily available on the hard drive of their shiny new system. Ummm they are a business
In the US, the ability to burn the CD no longer exists, as the CD is available for $10 at the time of purchase
Your OEM contracts and Dell's won't even be close in language. Unless you sell in the same volume they do.
Peter; "I *am* and OEM." Exactly what does that mean? We are referring to "big-OEM". Are you a "big-OEM"? Which one? Dell? Compaq? etc... Why can you post details without the exact quote? Without a source, what you say is no more than gossip.
Let's leave it as gossip, or just my imagination then. I offered 'a reason' why things are the way they are. If people choose to not believe it, no problem. So, I'll retract the original statement. MSFT couldn't care less. Dell is terrible for not always including the CD media. If that makes anyone happy, great. I'm not bashing either you, Jupiter, or Tom, but people asked and I gave an answer.
An answer without a source is gossip. Since you clearly not a large OEM as you first suggested, it is likely other information you gave is also unreliable. The smaller OEMs will have access to links on Microsoft's website. Post the link. Of course if your information is false, no link will be forthcoming. Do not make another mistake and assume someone does not have the access you claim. -- Jupiter Jones http://www3.telus.net/dandemar http://www.dts-l.org , what you say is no more than gossip.
I never said, or implied, I was a 'large-oem'. Never. I've already withdrawn my comments, and said you were right, so now what do you want? Plonk.
They mey not provide the utility ('Click here to create System CD'), but the ability to do so still exists.
I can't see the CD option for the Dimension b110 http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=us&cs=19&l=en&oc=DB110B&s=dhs Is it in that page or is it further into the purchase pages? I am beginning to think I am right about it not being there, but I don't like to claim something I don't see / can't verify Even I should be able to see it after 10 times to the page, but I may be repeating the same behavior. I am trying to look at it differently! Is it an easter egg? Do I need a cheat code? ... Well they warned me I would go blind... -Phil C
