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January 22, 2007 8:16 AM PST

Midnight madness planned for Vista

by Matthew Elliott
(Credit: Nedbel)

Dan Ackerman asked, "What happens the day after Vista's launch?" earlier this month, but what happens the night of Vista's launch? If you must have Microsoft's forthcoming OS the second it becomes available (a week from tomorrow, January 30), you have a few midnight-hour options. CompUSA will open its 230 stores next Monday shortly before the clock strikes 12, while Best Buy will do the same thing at about 15 of its stores. Both retailers will have Vista-equipped desktops and laptops priced to move, along with helpful staff on hand to assist you in choosing and installing the right boxed version and any upgrades your current system may require to run Vista. In fact, you can drop your PC off at a CompUSA store now, then pick it up at 12:01 a.m. next Tuesday to find it loaded with Vista.

There is, of course, another option. For the first time, a Microsoft OS will available online for (a legal) download. Microsoft has stated that you'll be able to purchase and download Vista Home Basic, Home Premium, Business, and Ultimate editions (along with versions of Office 2007) at its Windows Marketplace site starting on January 30. Curious to know if your current system is up to the Vista challenge? If so, I would direct your attention to our free and easy Vista Readiness Advisor tool.

Matt Elliott, a CNET editor since 2000, heads up coverage of computer hardware, from desktops and laptops to their assorted components and peripherals. Prior to joining CNET, he worked for PC Magazine. When not writing about computers and wrestling with their shipping boxes, he likes shooting with his Nikon D50 camera. Matt is also skilled with a tape gun. E-mail Matt.
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Haha- Many could care less...
by whizkid454 January 22, 2007 1:06 PM PST
I doubt 200 people will show up. I can't even see 100 people actually wanting this OS that bad. Too much hype??? I agree this *might* be the best new OS but I wouldn't jump the gun and purchase it that instant. I'll wait until the bugs and other new-OS-flaws are worked out. Good luck to Best Buy and CompUSA for making their employees work at 12:00AM!
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Sorry Buddy
by kwaby January 22, 2007 8:44 PM PST
I hate to disappoint you bro but you don't know what you are talking about.
I have being using office 2007 along with Vista trial edition till now and i must say it is very good and runs smoothly. I don't know where you are going with all this negative attitude. It is infact people like you who give comppany's like Microsoft a bad name.
Why fight over something which is not released yet. Lets all wait and see and then give our view from the standpoint of the fact that we have tried the product.

Thank you.
Any other stores doing launch events?
by trackingvista January 22, 2007 2:14 PM PST
I read somewhere that Circuit City is doing a midnight madness event in 10 stores. Thelaunch parties have freebies and prizes. One more option for me that night!
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Forget Vista!
by jwlcarlos January 26, 2007 8:10 PM PST
Vista is going to drag your system down. Just forget it!
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