You will need: 1. USB Stick or External Hard drive
Must be greater than 16GB Preferably USB 3.0 2. Lots of Time
THIS IS RECOMMENDED FOR ADVANCED USERS ONLY
1.
Download the Windows 8 Consumer Preview ISO file from
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/iso – Make a note of the product key
2.
Download the Windows Automated Installation Kit (WAIK) from
http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?id=5753 3.
Download and install Virtual Clone Drive from
http://www.slysoft.com/en/download.html – (This step is only required if you can’t already mount ISO files).
When the WAIK has finished downloading, mount it (using the Virtual Clone Drive) and then open the installer which will appear as a CD drive. Once the setup loads click ‘Windows AIK’ from the sidebar and follow through the installer.
Once the installation is complete navigate to (If it was installed to the default location):
C:\Program Files\Windows AIK\Tools If you have a 64 bit computer open the “amd 64” folder. Alternatively, if it is 32 bit open the “x86” folder. Copy the “imagex.exe” file and paste it in the root of the C drive (C:\). If a warning message appears click ‘Continue’.
Next, mount the Windows 8 Consumer Preview ISO. Then open command prompt by typing “cmd” in the start menu. Right hand click on it and select ‘Run as Administrator’.
Plug in the external hard drive or USB stick.
WARNING:► All existing data is going to be erased from the device.
Next, enter the following commands:
diskpart list disk All the disks currently connected to your computer will then be displayed.
Replace * with disk number you are going to be installing the Windows 8 Consumer Preview on.
select disk *
clean
create partition primary
format fs=ntfs quick
active
assign
exit Replace @ with the virtual CD drive letter (the mounted ISO).
Replace # with the drive letter of the external hard drive or USB stick.
C:\imagex.exe /apply @:\sources\install.wim 1 #:\ bcdboot.exe #:\windows /s #: To finish the installation you will now need to restart your computer. Make sure that it boots from the USB stick or external hard drive. (If you don’t know how to do this check with your PC manufacturer or look in the bios settings). The computer will then restart several times (make sure it boots from the USB stick each time).
Next, enter the product key (
DNJXJ-7XBW8-2378T-X22TX-BKG7J) and confirm you agree to the terms and conditions. Then fill out the personalization settings to complete the installation.
You now have a portable copy of the Windows 8 Consumer Preview.
Remember not to remove the USB stick or external hard drive while the computer is running the Windows 8 Consumer Preview.
