Dell windows xp disk

[bige420]

Hey everyone, i'm going to be building a new computer for my dad in a few weeks, but we really dont want to buy another copy of windows. So what i'm asking is, would it be possible to use the windows xp install disk from his old Dell on his new computer?

 

[mexpedip]

short answer = no

long answer, you can certainly try but chances are you would have to call Dell because most of their install disks are good for one install befor the activation number has to be reactivated. If that is the case they will only reactivate if they think it is for the original Dell.

My suggestion would be to get the OEM/System builder version of vista home premium 64 bit. It costs $99 and that to me is worth the price of avoiding a conversation with microsoft or Dell.

 

[Wolfshadw]

I agree with mexpedip. Drop the $99 for Vista Home Premium OEM.

-Wolf sends

 

[bige420]

I have reformatted his computer multiple times using this disk, at least 8-10 times. Anybody ever try this?

 

[daship]

You cant do it.

Dell CD is tied to Dell bios/motherboard and it will not work on a different motherboard.

If it worked MS would of been broke by now because everyone would do it.

 

[jitpublisher]

^ THAT is the problem.
When you put the disk in the computer, it will indeed look for the Dell BIOS, and when it does not find it, it will simply display an error message saying something to the effect that it will only install on a Dell PC, and terminate the install program.