Help with OEM Vista Basic

[Dr3xus]

Got someone buy me a laptop overseas recently.
Only problem now is it came preinstalled with vista basic
in a language I am not that proficient in. Just a few questions if anyone here happens to know:

1) Is it possible to change the language to english without having to re-install the vista?

2) Will the OEM key still work if I do manage to track down a Vista dvd and attempt a fresh install?

Please only answer if your sure of your answer.
Thank you in advance.

 

[BiteMe]

1) i would need to know the language installed,

and if *any* parts of the interface are still in english (help files maybe...bits of control panel or device manager...ms paint menus...jsut have a dig around)

2) based on the size of the OEM who built the machine, there is a very good chance your key wont work. check the certificate on the bottom of the machine...if it has the OEM's name then they key wont work with just any vista dvd... (text you are looking for is.."Windows Vista Home Basic OemAct" followed by the OEM's name..)

also, try this to see if enough of the OS changes back to your liking..
http://windowshelp.microsoft.com/Windows/en-US/Help/2bac0e03-c331-48fc-8b7e-b66b8007512d1033.mspx

LIP (language Interface Pack) some details here http://windowshelp.microsoft.com/Windows/en-US/Help/35a1b021-d96c-49a5-8d8f-5e9d64ab5ecc1033.mspx

 

[chiskop]

Control Panel > Regional and Language Settings [globe + clock icon] > English (South Africa) [drop down box] and click Apply [bottom right hand corner]?
HTH

 

[Dr3xus]

The LIP does not offer any major languages.
My vista is installed in Mandarin and I would like to change the display to english.

Chiskop: that does not change display language

My OEM's name is "acer incorporated" but I was informed on another forum that oem prevents multiple installs but tracking hardware id?

O yes, regarding that link:
I've been there prior to posting this. There is NO OPTION under that tab that says anythign close to "change display language" actually the only thing there... is a button allowing you to install additional input languages.

Thanks again for the help