Re: OEM reinstall using Win XP disk

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Looks like I need to use the OEM disk that came with the computer! I
have the disk. Does repalcing the hard drive pose a problem?
Bruce Chambers wrote:
rwhitney@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx wrote:
I have a 3 year old Dell 8200. It is time for me to wipe the hard
drive clean. I will be replaceing the old 80G hard drive with a larger
version, 320G. I have updated the Bios. My question is can I use a
copy of Win XP that I own to reinstall, and not use the Disk Dell sends
with the computer to put the computer back to the state it was when it
was bought. I only want certain programs installed. I would use the
product key on the side of this computer.



It wouldn't work, unless that other WinXP CD you have is an unbranded,
generic OEM CD.

Product Keys are bound to the specific type and language of CD/license
(OEM, Volume, retail, full, or Upgrade) with which they are purchased.
For example, a WinXP Home OEM Product Key won't work for any retail
version of WinXP Home, or for any version of WinXP Pro, and vice versa.
An upgrade's Product Key cannot be used with a full version CD, and
vice versa. An OEM Product Key will not work to install a retail
product. An Italian Product Key will not work with an English CD.
Bottom line: Product Keys and CD types cannot be mixed & matched.


--

Bruce Chambers

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