Windows Going from Windows 7 RC to retail

I've ordered a copy of Windows 7 home edition for my main pc that's currently running windows 7 RC due to building it last month

A few questions.
1) Has the EU version got the upgrade option now?

2) Can I do an upgrade style install if I'm running the Windows 7 RC?

3) If I upgrade, will I keep all my files and programs that I'm currently using and be able to use them without backing up.

The reason I ask this is so that I can put off buying an external HDD for a few weeks until I next get paid but still be able to install the Windw 7 Home edition that I have ordered without losing all my files.

Thanks

 

quick answers,

1) yes it does i believe now

2) NO

3) NO

best bet is to create a partion on HDD put all the files you wanna save on it and wipe the C: drive.

 

That's actually a good idea. Why didn't I think of that first.. Thanks for that

 

What I was thinking of doing was creating a backup image of the whole system, then swap over to the retail edition and copy the image back. Would this work alright?

 

Unfortunately when you put the image back... you will also be putting your current OS edition back in place , so an image will not help you here.

You will need to backup your files and reinstall your applications.

 

Ah crap, thats annoying. Stupid Microsoft.

 

I agree with Adam , I've got a 2nd drive on my system so I just copy all my libraries to my second drive (don't forget game saves too!) , then wipe my main drive , install the o/s and copy them all the files back afterwards...