Does Dell still ship software CDs with systems?

[DonIsHere]

I'm planning on ordering an Inspiron soon (any guesses when?). I heard that Dell has stopped shipping software CDs with computer systems. Instead, they now copy the CDs onto a "hidden" partition of the hard drive.

Is this true?

I'm planning on wiping out the hard drive once I get the laptop and was wondering if this is going to be a problem.

 

[DonIsHere]

bump

 

[John]

My 700M came with a full version of XP on one cd and the other apps/drivers on separate cd's. There is also the restore partition that you can use as well.

 

[Arcanedeath]

As far as I know they still send you the restore disc's but they could have stoped doing that recently.

 

[Melchior]

Sometimes, and sometimes not. Its strange. I believe they're in transition. I've heard stories from people who DID and DID not get an OS with their XPS2/9300, though you can call Dell and request one for free.

 

[JBT]

My dads Dell did, this was a couple months ago though. I know Gateway doesn't anymore. They send 5 blank CD's now lol. ( I work at a company that uses Gateway...) :Shiver;

 

[Gooberlx2]

My refurb Dell that I got in back in Feb did. I hate that damn restore partition anyway, which is why the first thing I did was wipe it and do a fresh OS install.