move c.o.a from 1 pc to another?

Question

i have a pc running xp and am changing the os on it, but i want to use the c.o.a key on another pc instead of wasting it, how do i go about doing it.

Answer 1

You can't; they key uses info from the motherboard, hard drive and other components, if too many of them change then Microsoft say 'its a different pc' and refuse to re-activate.
The key you paid for is for that copy of XP on that machine.

Answer 2

Bit naughty because technically you shouldn't move c.o.a.'s around. If you MUST, then use a very hot hair drier or DIY electric hot air blower to remove the coa label. If it's a plastic case then take care not to melt it. Trying to just pull the label off will just tear it, which is what is designed to happen. You'll have to use the system restore disk from your existing PC on the new one and then you will have to install drivers for the new PC, which will be different unless it's the same make and model as your old one. Other alternative is just swap the hard drives over and tinker with the drivers. The label thing still stands though.

Answer 3

you really cant . sometimes microsoft will let you move to a new computer for a small fee. the reason is to many people would buy ,use ,then sell or make copys of the disk and microsoft would lose money .now you have to call them when you get a new computer they even might let you move 1 time for free.

Answer 4

I guess you mean the software key, not the coa. Try contacting Microsoft, they have been known (sometimes) to be quite helpful if you tell them exactly what you're trying to do.