Where can I download an installation cd for a Vostro 1500? Thanks.

[ricleo2]

I bought a refurbished Vostro 1500 a few years ago. I would like to reinstall XP and everything else, but it did not come with an installation cd. I can find all the drivers on Dell's website, but nothing else. Is there anyway to reinstall the OS? Can I use my own copy but use a different install key? If so, is there anywhere I can find the key on the laptop now? Thanks for any help.

 

[AtlantaBob]

I believe that you can use your own disc of XP using the Microsoft Key on the sticker on the bottom of the laptop. One word of caution, you may need to have the correct type of XP disc. If I remember correctly, if the key is for, say, XP SP2, you may not be able to use an original XP disc to install it. Of course, you could always try calling Microsoft to see if/how you could override that....

 

[mfenn]

As long as the OS still boots, you can use the "Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder" to get the key. (Or use the sticker as AtlantaBob suggested).

You would need an OEM disc or mod a Retail disc into an OEM disc. Major PITA I'm afraid. 🙁

 

[AtlantaBob]

Ah, yes. I forgot about the distinction between OEM and non-OEM dics. Thanks for backing me up on that. I'll second Magical Jelly Bean, though. It's very handy (assuming you have the other stuff you need, correct disc, etc.)

 

[oynaz]

Download an iso image and crack the fucker. You paid for the OS, and those registration keys are too much hassle.

 

[Blain]

Contact Dell, you may be able to get an OS CD sent to you. They've done similar things before for Dell owners.
Or you can always check ebay and find them less than $20 shipped.

 

[KeithP]

It has been my experience with the Dell machines we have at work, one Dell disc will work on any Dell machine. The machines at work came with different Dell XP discs, some with SP1 and others with SP2 (a mix of different desktops and laptops). When I had to reinstall the OS on a machine that originally came with SP1, I used a Dell SP2 disc and it worked fine. I got all the correct drivers from Dell's support site.

You can find people selling these Dell discs on ebay and Amazon.

-Keith

 

[Soundmanred]

I've got an XP SP2 disc from my Vostro 200s I bought a few years ago. I'm sure it would work (might have to get specific drivers from Dell, shouldn't be a big deal), and I've moved on to W7. PM me.

 

[GregMal]

I'm sure you've checked to see if you have a hidden partition with the restore files on it???

 

[ricleo2]

I sure appreciate all the responses. Dell support sent me a PM asking for my service tag. Quite a surprise, way to go Dell.

 

[ricleo2]

Since all I had on me was an xp upgrade disc, Dell is sending me the installation discs I need even though the warranty has expired. Many thanks to Dell.