Here is a recent conversation between eMachines tech. support and myself..
My initial question:The license key on back of the computer has been partially torn off and I cannot see the Windows Vista license key. Thus, if I want to reinstall the Operating system I will not be able to unless I recover the license key.
Response by tech:Thank you for contacting eMachines. I'll be happy to assist you with this issue.
After verifying serial number XCC7320030557 we see that your product is out of warranty.
Having reviewed your email, I understand that you are having issues with the product key.
Dan, please be informed that the operating system that comes with your product is an OEM version and does not need product key if you are trying to reinstall it using the partition or RCD purchased from us.
There would be a data loss if you are doing recovery. So please take back up of your data before you do a recovery. To take a back up, you can contact Answers by Acer at 1-800-237-6483 which is a paid support or else you can take the system to any local store nearby.
For further clarifications please feel free to visit our web site
http://emachines.com/Thank you for contacting eMachines,
Have a great day!
Respectfully,
eMachines Online Technical Support
My reply:What you are saying about the operating system product key does not make sense. I just reinstalled the operating system using the disc that came with the computer and it is requesting that the product key be typed in for Windows activation. When I right-click on "Computer" and select "properties", it says that I have 30 days to activate Windows. This cannot be done without the original OEM product key that came stamped on back on this (T5088) computer. So if eMachines has that Product key on record I would appreciate it if they could send me a copy of it.
eMachines reply:Thank you for contacting eMachines. I’ll be happy to assist you with product issue.
As per our record your system is out of warranty.
Dan, your system came with OEM version of operating system. You do not need any product key to install the OEM version of operating system. You do not need the product key if you are using recovery disc provided by us.
If you need further support concerning this issue, We do offer a phone-based support options for Out of Warranty products that also covers "How Do I" questions as well.
"Answers by eMachines" is a convenient and affordable fee based technical support service that is great for answering "how to" questions or technical issues once the product warranty has expired. With your purchase of the service you would have instant access to our Highly Trained agents.
You may call 1.866-621-2237. However, it's a fee based support. Calling cards are available for 30 minutes ( $59.99 ), 90 minutes ( $129.99 ), or 15 issues ( $199.99 ) and the validity will be 1 year. Another option is that you can approach a local technician.
For further clarifications please feel free to visit our web site
http://www.emachines.com Thank you for contacting eMachines,
Have a great day!
Respectfully,
eMachines Online Technical Support
It's fairly evident that they don't want to help me. Essentially what they're saying is that, if I want my product key back I'm going to have to pay money.
Warranty or no warranty... what a crock of sh##