Windows ME won't install...

[PCNUBY]

For some reason the Windows ME that came with my new Dell will not install on my previously home built computer...whats the problem? It asks to me to obtain the correct version of windows from my manufacturer...

[glc]

You trying to install it on a drive that already has Windows on it? If so, boot to DOS and rename (do NOT delete) win.com

If it still wont install, it may have an antipiracy key that will only allow it to install on your Dell.

[PCNUBY]

can i still enter windows after renaming the win.com file? if this method doesnt wrk i still wanto be able to use windows 98 because i dont have the windows 98 cd on me.

[glc]

No - you have to rename it back! It will boot to DOS (command prompt only) but not to Windows, safe mode or otherwise.

[PCNUBY]

uh..can u explain how to change it from the dos prompt?

[glc]

From the C:\> prompt:

c:\> cd windows (enter)
c:\windows> ren win.com win.old (enter)

to rename it back:

c:\> cd windows (enter)
c:\windows> ren win.old win.com (enter)

[PCNUBY]

I tried doing this...but i get a message saying that the file name is in use....

[reboot]

You have to do it in DOS, not within windows.
Repeatedly tap the F8 key on boot up, and select "Command Prompt only" from the menu.

[PCNUBY]

ok renamed win.com...to no effect. perhaps a dell problem...any suggestions on how to bypass this problems?

[glc]

Buy a legal copy of Windows. I'm glad to see someone has finally found a way to help eliminate piracy. Go Dell!

[hackercarlos]

GLC. HEhe :D

[devine230]

using the dell ME it is probably ONLY for a clean install
to upgrade from 98 2nd. you must use the ME setup

[stevensurprenant]

I built my last computer and installed Windows ME.

I was experimenting and tried to install Windows 95 from my Compaq computer to a different hard drive on this new computer and it would not allow me. It said that it wasn't a Compaq computer.

Maybe that is what is happening in your case.

About piracy:
The Compaq computer I got Windows 95 from is in the parts heap and I felt that I had every right to use this OS on the new machine. The liscene states that I have the right to use this on one machine which I was trying to do.

Considering that I paid for this software, I feel I got robbed, which is the reason I will never buy another computer from Compaq or any other company that has proprietary software and hardware.

Computers are so simple to build, as many of us have discovered, it makes no sense to keep throwing good money after bad. I'm sure many of you will agree.

Don't think I am saying that these name brand computers aren't any good, they are. It's just that they're built to be thrown away and that makes no sense to me.

[glc]

No - read the license again. The OEM Windows is licensed for use *on the computer on which it was originally delivered*. It is not an unrestricted copy of Windows - it's a *recovery disk*. Whether you agree with this is unfortunately immaterial - it's the way it is. Don't blame Compaq et al - blame M$. All you can blame Compaq for is saving money by not paying M$ for an unrestricted copy - bulk licensing is cheaper.

[stevensurprenant]

Thanks for the info. I apologize for my mistake.

However, this doesn't change my feeling toward name brands.

Even though these name brand computers are fine machines, it somehow doesn't seem fair that the general public has to pay such high prices when in three or four years they throw all their hardware and software away and have to start over again. Besides, I almost fell over when the power supply died on my older machine and Compaq wanted 3 times what it would cost for my home built machine, which, by the way, is a better machine. Like you said...That's the way it is...

It's just a shame, that's all.

And yes, you're right...It's about money...

Thanks for setting me straight.

[glc]

steven: its unfortunate that all the general public looks at is initial purchase price. That's how these companies that build proprietary machines stay in business. Spend more *now* for a generic machine and you will pay *less* in the long run because it's upgradeable and repair parts are cheaper.