Re-install problem

[Pete Cumberland]

Hi,
I've had a problem with my computer and have had to reload XP form a
Restore disk provided by the manufacturer (Dell). So I've gone through the
motions but I'm being told that my product ID is wrong even though I've
copied it from a Microsoft label attached to the computer. The Computer is
just over a year old and came with XP preinstalled. When I started the
reload I had a message saying that I didn't have to activate my copy of
windows for 10 days but further on through the installation I am being told
that I have to activate it before I can use it. What can I do?

Pete

 

[Rock]

Hi,
I've had a problem with my computer and have had to reload XP form a
Restore disk provided by the manufacturer (Dell). So I've gone through
the motions but I'm being told that my product ID is wrong even though
I've copied it from a Microsoft label attached to the computer. The
Computer is just over a year old and came with XP preinstalled. When I
started the reload I had a message saying that I didn't have to activate
my copy of windows for 10 days but further on through the installation I
am being told that I have to activate it before I can use it. What can I
do?

Normally with an OEM recovery disk, no product key is needed. The OS is
BIOS locked to the motherboard and is already activated.

The product key on the sticker attached to the case works with a generic OEM
XP installation CD.

Have you talked with Dell tech support?