Trying to upgrade to Windows 7 from Vista - error code 0x7E

Hi azcharlie,

I am putting down some of the common Troubleshooting Tips To Solve Common Problems When Windows 7 Does Not Install. See if any them can fix your issue.

1. Run Windows Upgrade Advisor to see if there are any known issues that might affect the installation and fix them.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/downloads/upgrade-advisor

2. Disable all security software including anti-virus and firewall programs.

Make sure you enable the anti-virus later

3. Make sure your computer has the most recent BIOS and drivers.

BIOS DISCLAIMER:
Modifying BIOS/complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) settings incorrectly can cause serious problems that may prevent your computer from booting properly. Microsoft cannot guarantee that any problems resulting from the configuring of BIOS/CMOS settings can be solved. Modifications of the settings are at your own risk.

4. Disconnect all external devices except keyboard and mouse before installing.
5. If your computer/motherboard has integrated video use that and remove the dedicated video card.
6. If you have a large amount of RAM (memory), try reducing the amount of installed RAM. 1GB if installing 32bit, 2GB for 64bit, then replace RAM if the upgrade is successful.
7. If you downloaded Windows 7 and burned it to a DVD try burning it again at the slowest speed possible. It's also possible the download may have errors, you could try    downloading it again.

8. Check your RAM (memory) for errors. This may take awhile.
   A) Insert the Windows 7 DVD and restart the computer.
   B) Boot from the Windows 7 DVD.
   C) Choose your language, then click Next.
   D) Click on "Repair your computer" then select the operating system to repair.
   E) Click the Memory Diagnostics link on the System Recovery menu.
   F) The computer will restart and your memory checked for any errors.

9. Disable Startup Programs:
   A). Click Start, type MSCONFIG in the Start Search box, and then press Enter.
      OK User Account Control permission and enter password if any
   B) On the General tab, click Selective Startup.
   C) Right below Selective Startup, uncheck the "Load Startup Items" check box.
   D) Click the Services tab, click the "Hide All Microsoft Services" box, then click Disable  All.
   E) Click OK, then restart the computer.
   F) Attempt the upgrade again.

More information on the 9th method in the link below.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929135 .

Also, see the section on how return your computer to a Normal startup mode

Let us know if the information helped or for any further assistance.

Varun J: MICROSOFT SUPPORT
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