trial period for Windows XP

[colombo3]

I'm building a cheap computer for my son from older, but not totally outdated, parts, and would like to know if I can install my current copy of Windows XP on it to see how well it works. I don't want to spoend the money on another copy of the OS if it's not going to work well

I know you can install XP for 30 days before you have to activate it. Was just wondering if I do install it on this one, while it's still running on my other one, and both are connected to the net, will I have any problems?

Also, if it does run okay, and I do buy him his own copy, will I have to reinstall everything? Or is there a way to leave my copy in and just update the key code, to whatever key code HIS new CD comes with then activate it?

Thanks for the assistance!

[ZANEY123]

as far as testing it i dont see a promblem with testing it for the 30 days . i think that was the intention.

as far as having to purchase another copy and reinstalling, i dont think you have to do that just purchaser another lic..

other guys will have more to add to that one.

Zaney123

[Tuf]

There are two problems with doing that. One: you won't be able to install the updates until it is activated and you can't activate it on his computer. Two: You are violating the EULA by installing it on more than one computer at once.

The best bet is to make sure the hardware you will be using is supported by XP. If so ask people running similar setups how well XP runs on their systems. If after all of this you find it doesn't please you return it for a refund. Microsoft will refund your money for software, as long as it is not an oem copy, if you don't agree to the EULA. No questions asked, that has been their policy for as long as I can remember.

[colombo3]

Tuf,
I didn't realize that, I thought the same as Zaney. That the 30 days trial was intended for just thatIt's just that I had a heck of a time trying to get XP to work with another older machine of mine (which is one of the reasons I buildt the new one), so I didn't want the same problem of buying the OS if it wasn't going to work.

And if I DID buy it, I would buy OEM again, quite a difference in price, so I WOULDN'T be able to return it, if I understand you correctly.

[Tuf]

The thiryt days is not a trial period it is just the amount of time they will allow you to run it without activating.

As for returning an oem copy that's up to the vendor you buy it from. Most won't accept returns except for defective discs and then ususally they will only replace the disc.

OEM licenses are intended for system builders. That's why the price is less, you are getting less service from Microsoft. What the vendor decides to do for you is up to them.

Microsoft does have a list of compatitable hardware on their site. But I'll bet if you post what you are thinking about running here you 'll find someone that has experience with XP and the hardware you are using.

XP supports a lot of hardware. They only exceptions I haven't found a solution for are some Joytech video cards and and a few HP printers and scanners.