Moving OEM XP

[Fat Kev]

If it's a branded copy of an OEM XP, technically, it won't work
because it's tied to the lap top. If it's a generic OEM XP, you can do
it but Microsoft won't like it and you'll be committing a civil
offense by going against the EULA. Of course, being as the EULA is
unconscionable, Microsoft hasn't grown the balls to take anyone to
court so nothing will probably happen if you use the generic OEM XP on
your desktop.

Alias

Alias,

Where did you get this idea that that "If it's a branded copy of an OEM
XP, technically, it won't work because it's tied to the lap top"? I
just bought a brand new Novatech laptop
(http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/specpage.html?NNB-600) without any
operating system and I installed a DELL branded XP Professional SP2 and
I also used DELL provided serial numbers which are readily available
from companies that don't use these serial numbers because they use
VLK. It worked and this message is written using that laptop.

In fact you may not know but DELL branded CDs (SP2 versions) don't even
require a serial number if you want to try it for free for 30 days. You
might get that annoying message that "you are using a trial version blah
blah blah etc etc" but apart from that it is perfect. You can always
enter the serial number when you are ready to commit it to your any NON
DELL laptop or desktop.

The OP is correct to say "I know it's technically possible".
Personally, I have reached a conclusion that if it works, then it should
be legal because MicroScum has spent millions perfecting its WGA and
activating service "to protect law abiding users". Therefore, one must
be a law abiding user if it activates online first timeeven if the OS is
from a throw-away dell branded CD.!! Microscum is not stupid to
activate a pirated product!!

My advice to OP is try it and if it works, go out and have a drink on
me!!! This is my two-pence worth!

 

[Fat Kev]

FWIW, I've not yet found a PC on which a Dell setup disk wont work.

Neither have I!!! DELL CDs are generic and can be used on any systems!
I manage 1000 desktops or laptops and so I know what I am talking about.

 

[Fat Kev]

It very likely is not even possible. Most OEM copies of Windows these
days are BIOS-locked to the motherboard of the computer they came
with, and won't install on another, unless its identical to the
original.

Don't talk rubbish if you haven't tried it. I have tinstalled DELL Cds
on many systems that are not DELL brand and they all work. It is
foolish of you to write something you haven't physically tried it.
Don't just make up stupid replies unless you are 100% sure.

 

[PD43]

Neither have I!!! DELL CDs are generic and can be used on any systems!
I manage 1000 desktops or laptops and so I know what I am talking about.

You're obviously fat (your moniker betrays you) and a pirate.

 

[Colin Barnhorst]

I know, but I have exchanged views with Alias for a long time without being
bothered by the vitriol. In this case, however, I responded because I don't
like to see other users encouraged to disregard their responsibilities
without at least commenting about it.

 

[Colin Barnhorst]

"Should be legal"? What is that supposed to mean?

 

[PD43]

I know, but I have exchanged views with Alias for a long time without being
bothered by the vitriol. In this case, however, I responded because I don't
like to see other users encouraged to disregard their responsibilities
without at least commenting about it.

Understood

 

[Ken Blake, MVP]

Don't talk rubbish if you haven't tried it. I have tinstalled DELL Cds
on many systems that are not DELL brand and they all work. It is
foolish of you to write something you haven't physically tried it.
Don't just make up stupid replies unless you are 100% sure.

Looking to start a fight? Find someone else to insult. I'm not
playing.

 

[Avi Greenbury]

Then what are you worried about?

I'm not worried, I'm intrigued.