Archived from groups: alt.sys.pc-clone.dell (
More info?)
that is my understanding as well... and, since it is an oem copy, it can
only be activated with an oem serial number (like that which is on your
dell). retails copies require retail serial numbers for activation. you
can purchase an oem serial number, a certificate of authenticity (coa)
sticker (like which appears on your dell) for little money... about $60 for
xp home and $85 for xp professional. you need the windows cd to install
(which you have) and can use the coa to activate legally.
"Ogden Johnson III" <oj3usmc@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:gcu4d09sjirds3qvi93k7a0ai5s1flppth@4ax.com...
> "MissLivvy was:Curly" <XeveryidiwantistakenX@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> >My Dell 5100 shipped with Windows XP Home edition. Can I install it on
> >another computer, or is it aware of the service tag number or serial
number
> >of the hardware it shipped with?
> >Of course I am aware that this is illegal from a licensing standpoint.
But I
> >am just curious what is the difference between the Dell OS reinstallation
CD
> >and one I would buy from a store.
>
> It is "tied" to your Dell in that reinstallation on your Dell, or
> another Dell AIUI, will not require reactivation with MS, . When
> you install it on a non-Dell computer, you will be required to
> reactivate it with MS as the Dell install disk will not find the
> expected Dell Bios. Since MS computers already show it as
> activated on your Dell, you will be instructed to call MS to sort
> things out. So go into silver-tongued devil mode and prepare
> your explanation beforehand, and practice it until you've got it
> down pat.
> --
> OJ III
> [Email sent to Yahoo address is burned before reading.
> Lower and crunch the sig and you'll net me at comcast.]