Can't read windows 7 product key sticker on dv4-1540

[CacHo6L]

Hello,

 I recently lost the HDD in my laptop due to failure. I went ahead and replaced it myself since the machine was already out of warranty. When installing windows I realized that my product key sticker is extremely faded and I can't read 5 of the characters properly. According to microsoft I should be able to get a new code from HP since the Certificate of Authenticity is visible.

The hdd failure was bad enough that it prevented me from using 3rd party software (such as magic jelly bean) to retrieve the original product key. It also means that its impossible to use the recovery partition provided. I'd rather not have to order recovery disks since I don't feel like paying for something I already own, and I would end up removing the HP software included anyways.

The machine in question is a dv4-1540us (product # VM166UA#ABA)

any help would be much appreciated

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Hi:

You will need to contact HP techical support, who will tell you to call Microsoft. 

That way you can complete the process of getting the runaround regarding that matter.

You will need to order a set of recovery disks for your notebook.

Paul

[CacHo6L]

I was afraid of that ... thanks anyways.

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.

Sorry.