I asked before if I could use a Dell Windows XP installation disc on a Compaq. One answer was no because it has a product key code. The thing is that this installation disc has never even been opened, let alone installed. Can I install it in my Compaq now. Thanks again.
2007-04-03 06:19:40 · 6 answers · asked by bizzie 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Desktops
The answer is still no. Even though the key has never been used, it's tied to the Dell motherboard, so as soon as you try to activate it, it will not allow you to do so citing that you must contact the manufacturer - meaning Dell. When you call Microsoft they will also direct you to Dell. This is a common problem when people replace motherboards on their store brand systems - they usually end up having to purchase the retail version of Windows. That's why I build my own computers. By doing so, I get to buy the OEM version of Windows which is a little cheaper than the retail version. The OEM version (with exception of store brand computers OEM versions) as well as the retail versions are not locked to a specific motherboard, so when replacing hardware, although you'll have to re-activate - Microsoft will allow you to do so provided that the operating system is installed on one computer only.
2007-04-03 06:27:42 · answer #1 · answered by Sven B 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
The only differences between the Dell XP cd's and the Compaq XP cd's are the drivers pre-installed and the OEM branding. You could use the Dell XP Cd, but it's not garunteed that all of your hardware will work (for example your video card may not function proper, or your ethernet card). I wouldn't recommend you using the Dell CD on the Compaq overall.
2007-04-03 06:28:21 · answer #2 · answered by trencherman92 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
No, First things first any disk from the manf. will search for component id's on the board that let it know if it their product or not. If its not then it wont run. installation. Sometimes the bios versions are diffrent and you can even crash the H.D. by tring to use another Manf. in your computer. So if it says Dell and its a Compaq wont work, if its a Dell and your using it in a Dell then it will work.
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2007-04-03 06:24:12 · answer #3 · answered by The Tech GUy 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
No unfortunately the Dell Disc has drivers for Dell computer systems that will no run on a Compaq. It's also possible that it will sense the computer and not execute.
2007-04-03 06:23:25 · answer #4 · answered by Oz 7 · 3⤊ 1⤋
The Dell edition of the software has been coded for the Dell hardware, and for that one model the software was issued to.
2007-04-03 06:24:49 · answer #5 · answered by acklan 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
no ! because it's a DELL disk , the bios will not allow you to use it because it knows your not putting it on a dell machine
2007-04-03 06:23:56 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋