activating beta version

I have been asked to activate the beta version of win 7 ultimate and purchased a copy of ultimate - now it tells me the product key is invalid. I don't want to re-install

Joe

Your post is not to clear. You mean you have purchased a retail version and that key will not activate?

If I understand correctly, you have the Beta on your PC and now want to fully activate it using the Ultimate version key?

If so, you can't do that - the only option is to either perform an in-place upgrade (not recommended, buf if you really don't want to re-install it is an option) or a clean install. You can use the Windows Easy Transfer wizard to move most files and settings if you go for the clean install option.