My Dell computer has a "copy" of windows xp sp2 currently installed on it, but I seem to find myself needing to download a registered version of xp for MY computer . The question is... I know someone who also has a Dell that came with an xp start up disc. Can I use that disc to reinstall xp on my pc, or is that disc specific to his computer?
2007-01-30 11:51:23 · 10 answers · asked by remlap47 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Desktops
When I bought my Inspiron 9300 I had dell send me for free a copy of XP SP2. However, you can use his CD, but make sure you have have your serial number written down first. If your key isn't on a Dell sticker on the back or bottom of your computer, then download and run this program to get your Product Key from your current installation:
http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml
Then use his disk to reinstall and use your key to activate. You likely won't have any problems with drivers that others are mentioning, because XP supports tons of stuff. However, drivers specific to your model computer and the hardware Dell sold you are easy to download from dell.com, Help & Support.
2007-01-30 11:56:11 · answer #1 · answered by dug 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you can use the CD from another dell but you'll have to find the motherboard drivers for your system. usually, XP will have them for sound and all the other drivers needed on the disk. if you need to reinstall XP on your computer you can do a search on google for "windows cd key reader" a program that will show you the key for all microsoft programs that requirer a key code. i have done this before with an old dell 486 which wasn't worth fixing. i just ran the key program and used it to install on another system. if the registration doen't work and you call the phone number to talk to a rep, just tell them it's a reinstall and nothing else. they won't ask any questions about it being it is the same key used for the same system.
2007-01-30 20:11:55 · answer #2 · answered by gas_indycar 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you have a Legit version of Xp Pro on your PC, the Tag number gives your code. If you have lost your CD, contact DELL and they should be able to help
2007-01-30 19:56:54 · answer #3 · answered by Mictlan_KISS 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you deffinantly can, because i have a compaq and lost the windows xp cd, i use a dell laptops and works fine, all u need is the product key , thats it just redo the partition and done, all you need basically after your done reinstalling is to run windows updates and let your computer do the rest. hope this helps
2007-01-30 21:11:15 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You probably could install your buddies Windows XP on your Dell but you will have issues running your hardware because the drivers will probably be different.
2007-01-30 19:56:12 · answer #5 · answered by smorapcs 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The startup disk won't help you if you don't have a legitimate Product Key.
2007-01-30 19:56:50 · answer #6 · answered by Fix My PC Mike 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
dell gives disks away for dell coustomers free call them
2007-01-30 19:56:36 · answer #7 · answered by andrew_perrong 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i dont think so because ur going to need the product key, and i belive its only to be used on one computer.
but u can try it, it may work.
2007-01-30 19:54:31 · answer #8 · answered by Mario diaz 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ya sure, the disk may work on ur system...
2007-01-30 23:38:05 · answer #9 · answered by copy cat 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
if your notebook model is same and your driver is same then should be no problem
but maybe you can,t run updates on it.....
2007-01-30 19:55:49 · answer #10 · answered by hanshen1986 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋