Ganjookie said:
I usually reinstall windows every 6months-1year.
I've heard of stranger hobbies.
It seems that I have
installed this particular copy too many times.
Not possible, unless you're trying to use the same key on multiple
computers, simultaneously.
Are you receiving a error message saying that your copy had been
installed too many times? If so, be aware that the error message you
received is somewhat misleading. What it really means is that you've
activated "via the Internet too many times within the last 120 days."
Because there is usually no sound technical reason for reinstalling and
re-activating WinXP so frequently, the automatic presumption is that the
OS is being installed on multiple machines. I really think Microsoft
should fix this message, but it is, in reality, a relatively minor
"cosmetic" issue, so they're probably giving more weight to some silly
cost-benefit analysis more than they are their customers' occasional
confusion.
Where can I turn to to get
more installs/registrations of this key?
Nowhere, as there's absolutely no need to do so.
There's no limit to the number of times you can reinstall and
activate the same WinXP license on the same PC. Nor is there ever a
charge. Nor does a Product Key (so long as it's not an evaluation
license) ever expire. If it's been more than 120 days since you last
activated that specific Product Key, you'll most likely be able to
activate via the Internet without problem. If it's been less, you might
have to make a 5 minute phone call.
Here are the facts pertaining to activation:
Piracy Basics - Microsoft Product Activation
http://www.microsoft.com/piracy/basics/activation/
Windows Product Activation (WPA)
http://www.aumha.org/a/wpa.htm
I've spent some time on MS site, and
I cant find info on this.
Not surprising. It is, after all, a non-issue.
I'd rather not shell out another $299 for another copy, since I plan on
getting Vista in late 2007
Nor do you need to purchase another license. Again, why would this
tought even occur to you?
This is for home use, on 1 PC. I just reformat and reinstall like changing
oil in my car.
Not the best of analogies. That there are sound technical reasons for
periodically changing an engine's oil. The same can't be said of WinXP.
However, it's your time to spend as you like, and, as I've said, I've
heard of stranger hobbies.
--
Bruce Chambers
Help us help you:
They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. -Benjamin Franklin
Many people would rather die than think; in fact, most do. -Bertrand Russell