XP will not update. What to do?

[mysticm]

I have pinnacle studio that I need for my analog video cam, but it says on the box (never read the manual yet) that I need XP with SP1, however the PC which is kinda old (3 years) has an old version of XP pre installed on my system and I can update for some reason to SP1. It says "you need to register your copy by phone" or something like that. How to get SP1 version or bypass that. The package I bought is below.

http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/pro...41&catid=10526

[Kov-Ice]

Have you tried calling Microsoft to register your copy yet? They'll give you a key if you can't authenticate your copy, I think. You really ought to get updated if possible, as it's alot safer.

[mysticm]

It's a very old version first release plus my pc is over 3 years old and I don't have warrenty anymore so I would have to pay for support. Plus Microsoft wants somewhere around $100 - $300 dollars for support if you do not have warranty or if your computer is out of warranty. Microsoft always gets you that's why bill gates is one of the richest men in the world.

[sdkfz]

Do you have critical files on the drive? I'd start by burning them to disk in the case that a re-install is needed (a back up is good to have regardless of the situation).

Then - I do not think you need MS support- you need to validate your copy of windows , go to this URL and get that done http://www.microsoft.com/resources/h...s/default.mspx

If this comes back as not a valid copy then you got a bad copy of windows from the OEM maker of your PC and they are the ones to go to for support not Microsoft. If it is a smaller local store then there is a chance that they were using illegal copies of the OS and now that Microsoft is taking a firmer stance against this piracy you are stuck needing to get a good copy. I doubt a larger OEM company would have done this though, but I suppose it could be...post back the result of the validation.

Also post back the specs- make and model etc of the machine and we'll get you the support you need. Do you have the original Win XP install CD and the install key sticker?