How do I get a Dell style OEM WIndows installer

[mcmikemc]

I build 5+ PCs a week and it looks like that might increase in the near future. Because of this I am looking for was to decrease the build time.

I am looking for a way to have a ghost image of Windows XP that I can install on new PCs that I build. I would have a book of the Windows COA stickers. This way all I have to do is enter a valid Windows key and test it.

Anybody know how I would be able to do this?

Do I need to call a certain M$ number?

DO I have to buy 500,000 copies of Windows to be eligible for this?

Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[loup garou]

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/302577

 

[Smilin]

Originally posted by: loup garou
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/302577

:thumbsup:

You do not need to call any certain number, you do not need to buy any copies of Windows at all. Since it's completely free and you're a grown up how about calling it MS instead of M$?

 

[ForumMaster]

yeah you could also use nLiteOS to create a similar image that's also up to date.

 

[SalladDazed]

You could try slipstreaming (Here is an article from CPU RE: Slipstreaming.). I believe that Dell and others use an imaging console (perhaps the Altiris product, as I know they have or had a partnerhsip at some point). Altiris includes a function for pushing several different product keys to multiple systems simulaneously I believe, and costs roughly $30 per "blast" before discounts start kicking in...at least last i knew. I also know that the Altiris console could be used to create "System Restore" DVDs similar to those used by the big boys. It's pretty slick when you can get it to work.

 

[mcmikemc]

Originally posted by: loup garou
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/302577

I have read that and I am a little confused about how I go about getting licenses for these PCs. I know I have to pay M$ (that's for you Smilin) for every PC I sell with Windows on it but I did not see anything on that page concerning that.

 

[Raduque]

Sysprep is mainly for IT departments using VLK keys. It allows them to create one install with all programs needed and use one single image to get the VLK Windows on different (specs wise too) PCs.

Most of the OEM's technically use VLKs on the system images, but they're not normal keys. I don't even think Windows' installer will recognize the pre-installed key (if you were to use a key finder prog, they're usually different from the COA key) if you try to use it to install.

 

[JackBurton]

Sysprep, learn it, know it.

 

[RebateMonger]

Doesn't every 3-pack and 30-pack of OEM XP include Sysprep as part of the OPK tools?