Help? can i do this to reformat XP???

[roaming_builder]

I have an older HP computer that i need to do a fresh install to, but i didnt recieve a copy of the Windows XP CD with the Computer(Was an open box item). Well i recently purchased a Dell that came with an XP CD bundled in with the other software, do you know if it would be OK or even work if i used that CD to reinstall Windows XP on it?(is there other stuff I need to look at?) I know i would need to get a copy of that computers Serial Code or whatever b4 i do it.

I had Linux installed with a boot manager(GRUB maybe? I dont remember) and i uninstalled it because i am giving it to a person who needs it badly, but the bootmanager stays up. I can live with that because i can just tell him to hit Windows everytime, but that could get annoying. Also i am having alot of problems with connectivity in Windows that may have been caused from the Linux install and re-partitioning. If that CD will work, will i need to do something to reformat my computer back into a normal one OS system? or will the Win XP disc reformat it?

I read that i will need to do a repair? will that be a fresh install or will it only change settings?

thanks,

roaming_builder

[roaming_builder]

just thought it would be good to ask b4 i tried... =)

[zelira]

From what I've read here at PCMech, that dell disc will check the computer for a dell bios which your HP computer will not have and flat out won't install. Also, you can't use one Serial for two machines.

As for the bootmanager give this a try, deselecting the System Startup list option after choosing XP as the default OS.

[kev7555]

>>>>From what I've read here at PCMech, that dell disc will check the computer for a dell bios which your HP computer will not have and flat out won't install.<<<<<



This is not necessarily true. While some OEM versions will do this, sometimes they will install on other systems. You must remember that there are many different versions of XP. Dell is one with which I have had extensive experience and the answer is about 50/50. The problem is whether MS will allow you to activate it, which is kind of "hit and miss".

Legally speaking, XP is licensed for only one machine at a time but this does not mean it will not work...


-Kev

[Panama Red]

Originally Posted by kev7555 Legally speaking, XP is licensed for only one machine at a time but this does not mean it will not work...

Legally speaking, you're only 1/2 right, Kev. I believe your statement is true for XP retail versions or oem versions that you buy for your own installation. However, OEM versions furnished specifically with a Dell, Hp, Gateway, etc. are for exclusive use on those machines only and are not transferable.