Despite having recently been handed the RTM version of Windows 7, Taiwan-based OEM PC makers have said they will not be able to start rolling out PCs with Windows 7 off their production lines until September, instead of mid-August as projected previously, since they are still waiting on tools from Microsoft as well as final validation tests from independent software and hardware vendors.
Industry sources pointed out that, although the major OEMs were given RTM copies of Windows 7 on or around July 24, ISVs and IHVs will not get access to the same code with which to complete final testing until August 6. But OEMs who want to include third-party software such as multimedia tools or anti-virus, etc., or drivers for specific hardware devices need to wait until after this time before they can begin to prepare their disk images.
In addition, the OEMs said that they are also awaiting performance testing and system preparation tools from Microsoft.
Microsoft Taiwan said that the RTM release is being carried out as scheduled without delay, however, a spokesperson could not confirm that performance test and adjustment tools for Windows 7 were delivered at the same time as the RTM.
OEMs originally planned to produce 10 million units each of notebook and desktop PCs in one and a half months in preparation for the retail kick-off Windows 7 PCs on October 22. Now they will have to squeeze the production of 2,000 PCs into one month in order to meet the schedule, the sources noted.
As a result, some August orders are likely to be delayed to September, which could cause supply problems for some key components, the sources commended.
Source: DigiTimes
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