I don't mind trying I just don't want to find out I get a message at the end that says register in 30 days and then it doesn't work.
You'll get the message about "registering within 30 days", and it will work during that time. However, at the end of 30 days and you can't provide a valid key, it will stop and you'll have to reinstall all over again. Microsoft intended that an OEM copy of Windows was "tied to the 1st mobo it was registered on". Therefore (1) you shouldn't be able to use the same OEM copy on 2 computers, and (2) even if you only replaced the mobo on your one computer, you'd need to buy a *new* OEM copy of Windows. I don't know how well they police this, but it would be very easy to do through Windows Update.
Yea, Ill let you guys know what happens Im trying it on Friday. The key is asked for at the very beginnig of the process, so if it accepts it there then I think we should be ok.
Hello, You can "slipstream" your own Windows CD (with your own copy of legally owned windows, of course) with all the service packs, drvrs, and commonly used programs on the cd. You can then run an "unattended install" where all this is installed upon booting of the cd (or dvd). I do the IT thing and refuse to babysit computers while software is installed - just roll your own. http://unattended.msfn.org/unattended.xp/ http://www.ubcd4win.com/ Try "Bashrat the Sneaky" and use his driverpacks - pretty much all drivers will be on your ultimate windows dvd then. http://unattended.msfn.org/unattended.xp/view/web/37/ Google Ryans packs and you can add different programs that are automatically installed with windows! Use OSL2000 and you can have multiple copies of windows on your machine - use one of your windows installs for trading programs only - nothing extra and you'll have a nice, stable machine. Good Luck!
Thanks, Quick question, what do the guys at Geeksquad use. Do they sit around and wait to click on everything or do they do what you do? To bad windows doesn't make a version simular to that. Joe
don't know what Geeksquad uses....but most of my peers make their own "unattended install" discs up. windows does make that version....if you roll your own! unattended install is not something people made up after microsoft - you can put that into their tech site search or explore the windows cd and find instructions! the sites i gave tell you how to do it in plain english + give links you'll need for programs that should make the project easier - for instance "nlite".
When you buy OEM operating system you are supposed to also buy a piece of HARDWARE........... Last time i bought winXP pro OEM from zipzoomfly.com they sent a free piece of wire or some other useless piece of hardware. Microsoft and silly rules.......... You can also get a teachers/student copy at lower prices at the local community college etc. :eek:
You can use any disk you want, but the activation code on the little sticker on your pc will only work with the proper type of cd. OEM Dell, OEM HP, XP Upgrade, XP Full, etc. The OEM models are locked to specific hardware configs and will only work on the right kind of PC.
How to use an OEM disc on a different computer is buried on the website I gave. You can also google it and wade through forums to find the answer as to how. It's only legal if you legally own your copy of windows of course. I won't directly link because of that issue so with some homework (or the correct disc) you would be on your way if you wanted an unattended install.