New of the rack computer, Laguage?

[ronthai]

Hi,

I would like to know if the "of the rack" computers that we can buy online (Thai shops) or in Thai shops and have Windows and such pre-installed, will the Windows version be in English or Thai, do they deliver a DVD with it or just a hard drive image for repair/re-install?

I am thinking about a brand new HP Envy type desktop.

I the past I always had the Computer made to my wishes, but these HP Envy computers have good hardware for the prices, so why bother.

Thanks for any info and/ or experience you "experts" have.

[RichCor]

I believe you'll find that most "Off The Shelf" computer systems (desktop or laptops) for sale in Thailand that are intended to run Microsoft Windows OS are NOT BUNDLED with a full operating system (usually in order to lower the cost / increase the profit) of the system. A valid 'Retail Version' of Windows OS can be purchased. Just make sure they actually use the install disk and key
(and not their 'own')

You CAN find bundled systems being sold BUT you'll need to be extra cautious that the Windows OS is genuine and properly licensed. (Most authentic bundled units will have a holographic install key affixed on on the back, underside or battery compartment)

On the other hand computers and devices from Apple, or devices with the Android OS always come 'bundled' with the OS.

So, if you are interested in an "Off the Shelf" name brand product, yes you'll need to verify what's 'included' vs what you need to add.

Off the Shelf units aren't really bad. Though, there are some iterations where the manufacturer tries to cut too many corners. Search the product version before committing to a purchase.

[ronthai]

As an example this is one of the machines I am looking at. At the bottom are the Software specifications.

I don't care about any of it really, I just want to know if Windows8.1 will be in English or Thai OR I will get an option with the first startup/configuration.

http://support.hp.com/th-th/document/c04535723

By the way does anybody have experience with HP Onsite Warranty service:

3-year warranty with onsite service (Part/Labor/Onsite) 3-3-3 by HP, is part of the package

What does that exactly mean? Do they come to my place (after a week or so, with a broken comp.)

Is the case sealed, so no additional HDD can be installed?

[RichCor]

[...]

I just want to know if Windows8.1 will be in English or Thai OR I will get an option with the first startup/configuration.

This was the question I originally meant to answer, then got sidtracked. Sorry.

If *you* are the person setting up the OS then you will get asked to set a Language and Region (for symbols used, etc), or a SET OF LANGUAGES that can be selected via keyboard shortcut or mouse-click. In the Windows OS, this can be set on a user-by-user basis.

I have mine set for English and Thai. When I install additional applications the setup program will read the OS preferences and either install defaulting to the primary Language of the OS, or ask you to specify.

While you can change the default OS language after the fact, it doesn't always switch the language on everything, Better to specify it at time of install (or setup of user).

[ronthai]

Yes, thank you, I know that.

My question is for the Windows system language.

Example I am Dutch, with 100% computer English language knowledge.

If I would buy an "of the shell" computer in Holland the Windows language would be in Dutch as my old XP was.

I know with the more Pro Windows versions, you can download and change the system language, but I would have no idea how when already in Thai and if the, probably OEM version, will allow a system language change.

So, sorry if I was not clear, I mean the system Windows OS language for an "of the shell" computer.

Edited April 5, 2015 by ronthai

[Brit_Doggie]

The 4 pc i have bought all in english or can be changed language via control panel/region language, not bundled with disk if format needed but you can haggle a tad and maybe get 1 included, but prolly copy copy so once format over serial be incorrect.

IF in thai shows language as dutch us blah blah so np

Edited April 5, 2015 by Brit_Doggie

[ronthai]

Sorry Doggie, but over the years I have learned to understand many different kinds of "English", as spoken or written, but I have really NO idea what you are replying, beside you bought 4 computers, of the shell, like an ready made HP or Dell or Asus or etc, or just the same do it themselves Thai style, small shops?

Edited April 5, 2015 by ronthai

[MaeJoMTB]

Windows 8.1 comes with one language only.

You select that language when you first start up the new computer.

That's what you get with new computers that have windows already installed at the moment.

What people did with last years computers is no longer relevant.

So ronthai, you get to choose English or Thai, not both.

Both Richcor and Brit_doggie have no idea what they are talking about.

Edited April 5, 2015 by MaeJoMTB

[ronthai]

Thank you MaeJoMTB,

May I ask how you know this?

The way you explain, it would mean that I would have the choice for W8.1 OS system language, between my native language Dutch or English (or any other 100+ languages)

I have never used W8(.1) or higher,

My experiences are Amiga, first ever computer (500+, 1000, 2000), after that first PC windows 95 after 98 after XP and now for a few years W7,

BUT never "of the shell" this would be my first time. Always had original disks of the Windows OS

Edited April 5, 2015 by ronthai

[sanuk21]

There are many versions of Windows 8.1....generally Windows 8.1 Pro lets you change both the display and the input language.

Though there is a cheaper Thai Edition of 8.1 Pro of unknown specification.

A single language version comes in standard Windows 8.1.

Before you pay for your computer make sure the unit is set to your requirements.

Edited April 5, 2015 by sanuk21

[sanuk21]

PS If you don't have original disks Windows Pro will download languages from Microsoft site!

Nevertheless get the vendor to do all this for you before payment.

[ronthai]

Thank you "sanuk21" for your reply.

But PLEASE read my question:

An OF THE SHELL computer (go online to any Thai computer shop) and see what they sell.

Somebody in Thailand must have bought an OF THE SHELL computer before, those are the people whom I need to reply, not the so called "experts" like me.

All people friends, regular people I know, drink buddies, etc, they all come to me for their computer problems.

I KNOW all the ins and outs, just need a clear answer for an OF THE SHELL computer, which I have NEVER bought before.

Edited April 5, 2015 by ronthai

[RichCor]

Windows 8.1 comes with one language only.

You select that language when you first start up the new computer.

That's what you get with new computers that have windows already installed at the moment.

What people did with last years computers is no longer relevant.

So ronthai, you get to choose English or Thai, not both.

Both Richcor and Brit_doggie have no idea what they are talking about.

I never mentioned any VERSION of Window OS.

And while there are *some* versions of Windows 8/8.1 that are sold as Windows 8 SL (Single Language) in China and other emerging markets, to lower the initial cost and simplify the install process in those regions. The 'language' in this version can be swapped out with another (but it is still Single Language UI/Keyboard restricted), or the version can upgraded to Pro for Multi-Language support (see Windows 8.1 Pro Pack)

Windows 8.1 is also sold as Windows 8.1 "Core", Pro and Enterprise (multi-license) -- all multi-language capable.

Single Language versions can be purchased for around 2,990 baht, verses 3,790 for English International. The Pro Pack upgrade license goes for an eye gouging $99.00 US)

See InvadeIT website for more.

See Microsoft: Change your language or keyboard (Using multiple languages)

MaeJoMTB, sorry your whole experience has been with the single language version, but as you can see, all variations of Windows 8.1 aren't "one language only".

Bottom line, when buying a PC/Laptop/Notebook that comes BUNDLED with Microlsoft Windows 8.1 and you need Multi-Language UI and Input Support then Make Sure The Windows OS Isn't The SL Version.

[ronthai]

Thank you RichCor,

The info I needed, and I think you understand, that IF I purchase an OFF the Shelf" computer, I get to choose English and will NOT be stuck with OS all in Thai.

English is fine for me, my backup OLD comp I use now, I have to search for things because W7 OS is in Dutch, and I just don't know the computer language in Dutch, been for years, decades in English for me.

Anyway I will order from the Online Shop Lazada (10% discount) and will have a 14 days return if it is not correct, as I wanted (or broken).

I will report back when I have it delivered and checked out.

Edited April 5, 2015 by ronthai

[NeverSure]

I thought language packs were available for all versions of Win 8, and the version restriction ended with Win 7.

Please correct me if I'm wrong. I'm just going on what I think I remember. Here are instructions for changing languages in Win 8.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/2607607?wa=wsignin1.0#appliesto

Here are further instructions for downloading and installing a new language.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/language-packs#lptabs=win8

Edited April 5, 2015 by NeverSure

[ronthai]

Thanks NeverSure,

I have No Idea,

But if the Windows OS is in Thai, how on earth will I be able to find the settings to change it to English?

What pay a Thai "computer expert" to change the language I can not read?

Seen hundreds of useless Thai experts in the past years. (Well, maybe 5-10 "experts", but NEVER an EXPERT whom is Thai)

That is why for the first time ever I want an OFF THE SHELF computer, no Thai experts to ffff it up.

Edited April 5, 2015 by ronthai

[RichCor]

I thought language packs were available for all versions of Win 8, and the version restriction ended with Win 7.

Please correct me if I'm wrong. I'm just going on what I think I remember. Here are instructions for changing languages in Win 8.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/2607607?wa=wsignin1.0#appliesto

Here are further instructions for downloading and installing a new language.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/language-packs#lptabs=win8

Microsoft has created some *special* OEM versions, SL and BING that are lower-cost versions with restrictions.

The SL (Single Language) presets the OS GUI/UI and Input/Keyboard One Language. Though there is a process to switch language after SL has been installed by downloadable your preferred language pack and following a process to 'swap out' the original default language, the single language limitation will remain.

Sometimes you have to look at the "small print" on their help pages to see these limitations. Example: Compare Windows 8.1 Editions, expand the "System"

entry and look for the disclaimers:

Features Windows RT 8.1 Windows 8.1 Windows 8.1 Pro Windows 8.1 Enterprise

Maximum RAM ^vi 4 GB 128 GB 512 GB 512 GB

Switch languages on

the fly (Language Packs) ^vii

^vi 32-bit versions support up to 4GB

^vii Language switching is not included in Windows 8.1 single language versions

A Single Language limitation won't be a problem for most people (especially if that Single Language is your primary input language). I never used the Language Bar until I started working for Japanese, Korean and Chinese companies later in life.

You just need to make sure the OEM allows you to SET the Language when you set up the machine for the first time. In the ASIAN Region there will probably be a limit set of Languages from which you can pre-select only one, but I would guess an English version would be among them. Otherwise you may have to follow some really detailed instructions with screen grabs that tell you where to select, what to select, what to type to swap out the language after the fact.

To the OP, I'd suggest contacting Lazada (or the Affiliate Shop) and verify with them that the keyboard and Windows OS Language can be preset to English (or the language of your choice) when activating the system for the first time. Otherwise, look as the specifications and make sure it says Windows 8.1 (64-bit) [and doesn't include the letters SL or Single Language] -- allowing you more options in the future.

[ronthai]

I did and they do not really know.

I contacted hpstorethailand.com, maybe I will get a reply tomorrow on Monday

Again here are teh specs of the comp.: http://support.hp.com/th-th/document/c04535723

and here are some additional images including "FREE" keyboard and mouse (upside down image TIT): http://www.advice.co.th/product/desktop/hp/hp-envy-700-540d-k5m80aa-akl-/A0074587

C;early Thai/English keyboard, but I have no problem with that. Probably will just use my Full English Logitech keyboard anyway

[NeverSure]

I was going to suggest you ask the seller for that but your installation will have been sysprepped, needing to go through the final splash screens to ask you for your location and time zone, user name, password, etc. etc. So Windows won't quite be running yet when you get it. This would also pose a difficulty for you in Thai language.

Because your Windows installation isn't dodgy, and any language pack you download also isn't, I wouldn't be too concerned about having a Thai set it up with with English but I'd want to be there when it was done.

I have no experience with taking a sysprepped computer from factory/Thai to English so I don't know what all would happen. I would sure avoid giving it a password until it was English. You can boot from sysprep right into Windows leaving the password field blank.

(Sysprep is a Microsoft program that OEMs, enterprises and anyone who understands it use. After a complete installation of Windows and other things the manufacturer wants on a computer, they run Sysprep to strip the installation of all unique identifiers including the SID. Then they create an image and push it to multiple new computers which have identical hardware profiles. This provides the correct drivers and OEM registration requirements.

The manufacturer only has to install and do the setup of Windows including all other changes and settings on one computer.

This is why when someone buys such a computer from a major manufacturer he gets the final setup splash screens on first startup.)

Edited April 5, 2015 by NeverSure

[ronthai]

NeverSure, when the comp arrives and I plugin the power/electric, press the start/open button and all I see is THAI language, ...

OOPS Thai power failure and back in the box and return to sender.

No Thainess with that for me.

[RichCor]

The specs show Windows 8.1 (64-bit) and Windows 8.1 EM(64-bit). I wonder if that was supposed to be OEM(64-bit)?

The SAME computer is sold by InvadeIT on their site:

HP ENVY 700-540D INTEL CORE I7-4790/8GB DDR3/2TB/GEFORCE GTX745/WINDOWS 8.1

Windows 8.1 64-bit OS

So looks like the non SL version. You could always call InvadeIT and ask.

[ronthai]

I suspect it should be OEM, but that is not my concern, Non-Thai as in English (option) is.

Anyway Lazada delivers (thos model) through "PGS computer, mobile phone shop" (no websites as far as I could find)

But Lazada has regular promotion, I used the 10% discount on this one and comes to 30591 baht now.

Could not find anywhere else below 32-33.000 baht.

I don't know how Lazada does it but 2 weeks ago they had also a promotion (3 years open), any total order above 6000baht get 1200 discount, I used that one also to buy stuff I wanted, but never bought before, now I did. I hate shopping (outside, where the staff is ignorant and unhelpful).

TVF promotes Lazada Online Shop daily in the NewsLetter emails (largest Thai online shop)

I ordered 14 items and all are delivered FREE, cheap(er) and no problems, regarding defects or anything.

Edited April 5, 2015 by ronthai

[wooloomooloo]

Purchase an iMac and have done with it. You won't look back.

[ronthai]

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO,

for you, WooLooMooLoo

I am software dependent and VERY knowledgeable about Mac also.

My business/work depends on Windows (unfortunately), and NO emulation by Maccy.

When replying, answer a/the question, not OOPS, I need to reply with useless information

Edited April 5, 2015 by ronthai

[wooloomooloo]

Stay with Windoze if you persist and entirely up to you.

[KhunBENQ]

I thought language packs were available for all versions of Win 8, and the version restriction ended with Win 7.

Please correct me if I'm wrong. I'm just going on what I think I remember. Here are instructions for changing languages in Win 8.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/2607607?wa=wsignin1.0#appliesto

Here are further instructions for downloading and installing a new language.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/language-packs#lptabs=win8

Thats what I have read too.

So a lengthy discussion for users of Win 8.1 can be cut short.

If one buys a comp. in a shop they will easily be able to switch it to English.

I am still on Win7 having the ultimate version with at least three languages installed.

Same applies to the Thai kids around for whom I am the "administrator"

Edited April 6, 2015 by KhunBENQ

[NeverSure]

I thought language packs were available for all versions of Win 8, and the version restriction ended with Win 7.

Please correct me if I'm wrong. I'm just going on what I think I remember. Here are instructions for changing languages in Win 8.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/2607607?wa=wsignin1.0#appliesto

Here are further instructions for downloading and installing a new language.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/language-packs#lptabs=win8

Thats what I have read too.

So a lengthy discussion for users of Win 8.1 can be cut short.

If one buys a comp. in a shop they will easily be able to switch it to English.

I am still on Win7 having the ultimate version with at least three languages installed.

Same applies to the Thai kids around for whom I am the "administrator"

I have 7 ultimate on 7 boxes and I also run Microsoft Server with Active Directory as a domain controller. I run them all with one mouse, one keyboard and one monitor using an 8 port KVM switch. This is my test lab.

Right now for convenience I'm using my Laptop (Win 8.1) with USB mouse, keyboard, and a 32" monitor. I like the big monitor so I can kick back in my chair and see it where I can't see the 15" laptop screen well.

Cheers

[NanLaew]

1 ) I haven't come across any 'off the shelf' computer that comes with the Windows OS already fully pre-configured (which includes user language selection). However, some shops will say they can do it.

2 ) I have come across 'off the shelf' computers devoid of any OS (Windows or anything).

3 ) I have come across legal versions of Windows OEM OS that allow the user to fully configure the OS installation (which includes user language selection).

4 ) I have come across loads of computers that people bought with a Windows OS 'pre-configured' by the shop they chose. The OS was invariably cloned, copied, hacked, infected and illegal.

The safest option for an 'off the shelf' system buyer is 2 ) and 3 ), ie. buy a system that has no OS installed and buy a OEM Windows OS installation disc. Then you install it by yourself at home and most importantly, license it by yourself at home.

In my experience, buying 1 ) usually results in 4 ) and much wailing and gnashing of teeth.

NB:The caveat to all the above relates to Win7. I have no idea how Win8 distribution is handled in LOS as I am avoiding it like the plague for now.

Edited April 6, 2015 by NanLaew

[ronthai]

I agree NanLaew and have done so for 3 computers bought in Thailand already, always had my own legal Windows version.

Now with Of The Shelf computer I am talking about a Brand Name (HP in this case).

The same computer can be bought in several (online) shops accross Thailand.

I have no doubt all will be legal with this computer, just need it to be in English, not Thai

[2fishin2]

Its up to the user to set up his own language when he first starts a new computer.