Branded XP install CDs

mikeford

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Jan 27, 2001
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At the swapmeet (where else) a couple of regular dealers each had a big box of XP cds, one marked Dell and the other Compaq (some model like 500 or something). I skipped on the Compaq, but the guy selling the Dell cds said they install just fine on any Dell, and that he tested them as far back as a P2/400, and it installs and never requires a Key. Anybody know much about these?
 

SaigonK

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Aug 13, 2001
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www.robertrivas.com
You cant sell a DELL cd without a DELL system, i have about 100 of the Windows 2000 CD's laying around form the Dell systems we bought.
Classic "swap meet" scenario!
 

mikeford

Diamond Member
Jan 27, 2001
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Microsoft might like to think they can make laws, but they can't. Just in the same way they break existing laws at will do to the monopoly power they have over many vendors, I take the same sort of practical view of what can and can't be done in dealing with them and their products.

MS has so say whatsoever on what I can or cannot buy.
If I sell enough of certain items like the OS cds, they can't really stop me from selling them, but can force me to bundle the OS cd with an old motherboard and only sell the package.

Usage is the bottom line, what can I or can't I do with the OS cd. Does it install, does it require a key to use, and finally the great invasion of privacy, forced authorization/registration. I guess I will find out soon enough, once I dig up an old Dell to test on.
 

dbwillis

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Mar 19, 2001
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The compaq ones will install on any brand PC, even home built ones, but you should haev to input a CDKey intoteh install procedure..unless the CD's are the 'image/restore' type ones...
 

mikeford

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Jan 27, 2001
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The Dell CD I think is the same way, if a Dell motherboard is detected it installs with no key, otherwise it acts just like a retail CD and asks for the key.

Funny thing is I really kind of prefer 98se to XP pro, easier to deal with (more stable), boots fast, and has very few conflicts. Also I can almost always find a complete book, COA, and CD for $10 to $20.