Can someone please answer a question...

[cantputt04]

Well, I just recently purchased the Windows XP Home Edition software, OEM. I recieved my product, with only one problem. It wasn't the full version I ordered, but a reinstalation CD for a Dell computer. Another problem, my computer is self built, and is therefore not a Dell. But, if I were to install this Dell software, what could possibly happen? Or, should I return it and buy the actual product I wanted?

[ghost2003]

I dont know if it will work, I think they are made to only work on dell's. Try to get a real one.

[mjkovis]

Welcome to PC-Mech!!!

In your case you should probably return the software and get what you want. They could have shipped the wrong item by accident.

Who did you buy it from? Are you upgrading Windows versions from a previous version? Or are you doing a fresh install of Windows XP on a new build?

[roomwithamoose]

You don't have to return it. I purchase WinXP OEM from the internet (I don't remember who). It was the same thing as your's, it was a Dell re-installation disc. I threw it in, and everything loaded fine. There were a couple of things that were Dell stuff, like links to Dells site and some customer service stuff, but I just threw those in the recycle bin. I'd suggest trying to load it first. It should work fine, and if it doesn't at least you tried. THen you can send it back to where ever you got it.

[cantputt04]

Actually, it wasn't a mistake, and I can't send it back... AGsolutionsPC.com is where I got it from... They even said on the site that that's what I would be getting... I just, didn't see... I also took the picture of the Windows XP Home as a clear indication that that's what I would be getting... BUT, if i were to scroll down, in the fine print so to speak, it clearly states that I was getting a Dell imprinted OEM CD. Thus, I cannot return it for a refund, or even for the actual product I bought . And, I'm using Windows XP for a self built computer... Only now it'll say Dell in certain places... Um, can you tell me where it says "Dell" so I know exactly where to go to take Dell away from my computer? Thanks.

[sdkfz]

I had a look at the site you mentioned, selling oem XP without a hardware purchase is not kosher, but I'll leave that alone.... They say that they will work on any machine- I have heard stories going both ways on that so good luck.

FYI - Newegg sells 'real' oem XP for 15 bucks more and a hardware purchase which can be practically anything....

You'll find the Dell references in the registry. If you want to get rid of them you will first need to see where they pop up and then then google 'changing the X screen'. After that just use regedit to make the changes.

[cantputt04]

Ok, thanks a million. I may just have to use this, this pirated CD... It did have a product key, does that count for anything?

[EzyStvy]

DELL install cd's will look for a DELL BIOS. If no can find - no can install on non-Dell.