Re: New Motherboard and XP activation

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I am assuming that the motherboard is from Dell. If not, Ron might be right.
If the replacement board is OEM, it should not be a problem.


"Ron Martell" wrote:

> "Pete" <Pete@xxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
>
> >I have a Dell PC and the motherboard, power supply, went bad. (monster surge
> >knocked them out). I decided this is a good time to upgrade my tiny HD
> >since it's in the shop anyway. The hold HD will become a second HD.
> >Once I have the motherboard replaced etc., can I still install and activate
> >XP home?
> >
> >
>
> If your Dell system has a BIOS Locked OEM version of Windows XP then
> you will have an activation problem.
>
> Look on the Start Menu under Accessories - System Tools for the
> "Activate Windows" entry.
>
> If that item is not there then your OEM version is BIOS Locked and you
> will not be able to activate it on a different motherboard, unless
> that motherboard is also from Dell.
>
> If you do have the Activate Windows item under Accessories - System
> Tools then your Dell OEM Windows XP is from prior to Dell adopting the
> SLP (BIOS Lock) system for their CDs and it should repeat should
> activate okay if installed on different hardware.
>
> p.s. If your hardware was fried by a power surge then the replacement
> should be covered by your home insurance. Make sure you keep the
> claim file active just in case you do have to purchase a new Windows
> license.
>
> Good luck
>
>
> Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
> --
> Microsoft MVP
> On-Line Help Computer Service
> http://onlinehelp.bc.ca
>
> In memory of a dear friend Alex Nichol MVP
> http://aumha.org/alex.htm
>
.

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