XP Home - Product key does not work on install

[Guest]

The hard drive in my Compaq desktop died. I installed a new drive and tried
to install Windows XP Home from a Dell OEM CD and a friend's store bought XP
home CD.

When the installer asked for the product key, I typed in the key on the
Windows sticker that came with the Compaq. Both times the installer barked
that my key was invalid.

I have checked and retyped the key many times to make sure I read the
character correctly. Is this normal? Why won't Windows accept my OEM key?
Is my only action to purchase another copy of Windows XP Home?

Thanx

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

What you are seeing is normal for your key and a Dell or retail CD..
You need to use the Compaq CD.

 

[Bruce Chambers]

The hard drive in my Compaq desktop died. I installed a new drive and tried
to install Windows XP Home from a Dell OEM CD and a friend's store bought XP
home CD.

And why not use the Recovery method provided by Compaq?

When the installer asked for the product key, I typed in the key on the
Windows sticker that came with the Compaq. Both times the installer barked
that my key was invalid.

I have checked and retyped the key many times to make sure I read the
character correctly. Is this normal?
Yes.


Why won't Windows accept my OEM key?

Because you're not using the installation CD that goes with that
Product Key.

Product Keys are bound to the specific type and language of CD/license
(OEM, Volume, retail, full, or Upgrade) with which they are purchased.
For example, a WinXP Home OEM Product Key won't work for any retail
version of WinXP Home, or for any version of WinXP Pro, and vice versa.
An upgrade's Product Key cannot be used with a full version CD, and
vice versa. An OEM Product Key will not work to install a retail
product. An Italian Product Key will not work with an English CD.
Bottom line: Product Keys and CD types cannot be mixed & matched.

Is my only action to purchase another copy of Windows XP Home?

No, all you have to do is use the Recovery CD provide by Compaq with
the computer. If you've misplaced or damaged it, contact Compaq for
assistance.


--

Bruce Chambers

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