Carey said:
If your broken computer came with Windows XP
preinstalled, it is an OEM version that cannot be
installed, or activated, on a different computer.
If that is the case, then you'll have to purchase a
"Full Version" of Windows XP for your new computer.
You know, Carey - I have an issue with that one line there:
"If your broken computer came with Windows XP preinstalled, it is an OEM
version that cannot be installed, or activated, on a different computer."
That is not necessarily true. Some years ago I owned a small computer
company that put together computers from parts and installed operating
systems on them. Being small, it was easy and I felt, better for me to
purchase the full versions of the software (not OEM) in order to perpetuate
the fact I was indeed giving the customer something they would not get from
the larger chains. I would explain the slight price increase to the
customers (if they wondered or knew enough to ask) and why Retail was better
than OEM and I never had one leave because of it. However, when they got
their computer, the OS was preinstalled under their name. So there is a
prime example (in my opinion) of how someone could get a preinstalled OS on
a computer and it NOT be OEM.
If the OPs say something like "on my Dell.." or "On my Compaq..", then I
make the same assumption as you - OEM all the way - sorry you have to buy a
new license. However, I cannot make the same assumption if they do not
mention a manufacturer, as my experience leads me to believe anything is
possible.
Please note that I say this with NO disrespect meant, just pointing out that
a statement I read in your post seemed possibly inaccurate, though
most-likely true 95% or more of the time. I have full respect for your
knowledge and skills here, and in fact, if I did not have this respect, I
likely would never point this out. =)