New Reinstallation Problem

[AlanC37]

I have just attempted to reinstall Windows XP Home edition from the OEM
supplied disk. I wanted a clean system with all my old software etc.
removed. All seems to have gone well and at the end I am asked for the 25
Character Product key. The original installation was done before I got the
set (in 2001) and I do not have this key. The manufacturer said it should
be stuck on the tower but it isn't. He says I should be able to get it from
Microsoft as it is (was) a perfectly legal system. Please advise me how I
go about getting this. Phone number or email address would be appreciated.
Thanks,

AlanC37

 

[Guest]

The tower info usually stuck on the back of the pc 99% of the time has no
information to the product key microsoft wants.The info on the back is always
mfg info,the info they gave you is wrong.....To get the key,you need to
contact
the oem supplier,microsoft retail software has the key printed inside the box

 

[AlanC37]

I certainly cannot find anything on the tower that is useful. I will try
and get information from MDG by email or web. The local guy was sure that
MDG could not help me. Surely they must have had some sort of group licence
from Microsoft when the computer was built (2001) and I would expect that
either the OEM or Microsoft would have records. I would appreciate
information on who to contact in Microsoft if anyone knows. Thanks again,
Alan C

 

[DL]

MS will not help, its OEM.
Only the origonal supplier can supply the key, however as its now 6 years
old they may be under no obligation to help

 

[AlanC37]

So. New installation I guess. Seems a bit unfair since I understood I
could reinstall on the same computer as many times as I liked. Life is
hard!!
Thanks anyway
Alan C

 

[DL]

I said "may" be under no obligation, and yes you can reinstall on same
hardware