Dell OEM Windows 2000 discs, only on dell computers?

[AlastorX82]

Is there actually some type of protection that prevents using the win2k OEM cd provided by dell to install 2k on a non-dell computer?

 

[littlezipp]

I think that you can install the software, but it will say Dell everywhere.

 

[Doggiedog]

I think it checks some serial number on your motherboard. If you don't have one that matches, it won't install.

I have tons of those CDs and I can't use them on any of the PCs I built to replace my old Dells or Gateways.

It's total BS if you ask me.

 

[AlastorX82]

Any of this *CONFIRMED* ?

 

[vi edit]

I don't think they'll autoboot in any machine but a Dell, but I think you can gank the files off of the CD and use them to install on another machine.

I'm not 100% certain though.

 

[DnetMHZ]

<< Any of this *CONFIRMED* ? >>



I know i have a copy of Win ME that came with my Dell laptop (formatted and installed 2K on the first boot of course)
and it won't let me install it on any other machine.

DnetMHZ

 

[Spikesoldier]

Yes I have the same problem.

 

[Spikesoldier]

It will boot from the CD and 'find' itself in another machine fine, but won't install.

 

[iamwiz82]

If it is a blue disk, then, no, you cant use it anywhere else.

 

[Doggiedog]

I can tell you it's "confirmed". Like I said, I have copies of Win98, Win2K for both Dell and Gateway PCs and yes I did buy Dell and Gateway PCs which I later junked and rebuilt as AMD PCs and the disks do not work. When you try to install it, it will say that the software has detected that you are not installing it on Dell or Gateway PC and that it will cancel the install.

 

[Keego]

yeah I couldn't install ME on the virtual PC software installed on my dell laptop :disgust:

sigh.

 

[csiro]

I tried a Dell Windows XP cd and that seems to work...