You are going about it all wrong. Try this technique instead; How to make your own Vista OEM DVD This Procedure is only for Those who have SLIC in bios ================================================== ==== Just follow these simple steps to intergrate the Product Key and OEM cert: 1: Create a new text file and copy paste the text below inside and save the file as PID.TXT [PID] Value='Enter Product Key Here' do not enter the brackets i,e use Value=xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx This can be Vista Home Basic, Home Premium, Business, Ultimate OEM key. 2: Now make Folders $OEM$\$$\SYSTEM32\OEM 3: Take your OEM XRM-MS file that matches your SLIC in Bios and copy the file to OEM folder 4: Use UltraIso or PowerIso to make iso of your Vista or Vista SP1 DVD, DO NOT USE ROYALTY OEM DVD, i,e Asus Dell e.c.t as this involves editing .WIM files 5: Open ISO with UltraIso or PowerISO 6: Now add PID.TXT file and $OEM$ folder you created earlier to Vista SOURCES Folder 7: Save ISO and burn it then install Your Vista will now install and activate Burn the contents as a bootable DVD and you have your OEM disk!