USMT old laptop HDD > new HDD weird problem

[Guest]

I wanted to replace the HDD in one of two home laptops. I used USMT for a
complete backup. I replaced the HDD, grabbed the Install CD, installed
XPPro, restored my files and settings - all seemingly OK. Then...

I immediately got some weird messages to the effect that, ".. this product
key is unauthorized.." I telephoned the 888 number, got the automated
attendant who asked for the installation ID which was:
292504-323116-104330-484554-467440-864244-585090-549701-811475 and then was
told she ( it? ) was unable to proceed or something..

Now, I have one laptop with an OEM XP Setup disc and another with a full
retail version. Somehow I cross-installed XP from the wrong disc and after
the USMT restore the system sees a bad or bogus install.

I remember when XP first came out the 'word on the street' was that there
was a unique file generated during the install and I believe this might be
the problem--the scoop was that if you changed H/W, this might cause XP to
suspect foul computing. I think USMT copied this file, too. I can't
remember the file name or where I read about it.

Short of formatting and reinstalling, using the 'proper' CD, is there any
hope of resolving this since I have only 24 days left to activate?

Sorry for the long-windedness.

 

[Mark L. Ferguson]

You probably need to change the Product Key used for that install.

Change Key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\WindowsNT\Current
Version\WPAEvents , OOBETimer,(Change one digit)
start/run : "%systemroot%\system32\oobe\msoobe.exe /a"
Click Yes, I want to telephone a customer service representative,
Next.
Click Change Product key.
Type new key, click Update.
click Remind me later,
restart, and activate.