Will Dell's Windows XP work with a new build?

[grimlykindo]

I have DELL 4700 and am looking to start my own build-

Do I need a fresh copy of XP or can I use the copy supplied with my DELL with a new a custom build? (non-DELL obviously)

I still have the CDs as well as the CD key

 

[fishstickz]

It will work fine, but there will be a Dell link on your start menu.

 

[UsandThem]

Originally posted by: fishstickz
It will work fine, but there will be a Dell link on your start menu.

:thumbsup:

Which can be easily deleted.

 

[fishstickz]

Originally posted by: UsandThem

Originally posted by: fishstickz
It will work fine, but there will be a Dell link on your start menu.

:thumbsup:

Which can be easily deleted.

Really? You just can't right click on it to delete!

Please enlighten us, UsandThem.

 

[Mrvile]

To be on the safe side, I'd get a new copy, or at least burn a copy from someone. OEM OS's are preset to certain computer builds, and will mess up if big changes take place to the hardware. It might work, it might not.

 

[Topweasel]

That is when your using restore CD's dells is a customized Windows CD should and has workied perfectly fine before.

 

[Vegito]

Try it.. cause last time I tried it says This version will not work with non dell PCs

I think the dell disk checks the bios..

EDIT:

I think you mean you want to do a fresh install ? then it'll work... but that disk wont run on non-dell pcs..

 

[tapir]

You can try installing it on a fresh hard drive in your dell and then transplanting the HD into your new computer. That might not work for a number of reasons, but it's worth a shot. There's no way to use Dell disks on a computer that has an OEM motherboard, though.

 

[grimlykindo]

Originally posted by: tapir
You can try installing it on a fresh hard drive in your dell and then transplanting the HD into your new computer. That might not work for a number of reasons, but it's worth a shot. There's no way to use Dell disks on a computer that has an OEM motherboard, though.

So has anybody actually tried this, or are you guys just guessing? I appreciate any input that I can get, but does anybody actually have personal experience in attempting this?

 

[Gigantopithecus]

I've tried it. It installed fine, and Windows appeared to operate fine, but when I called in to validate the key, MS kept telling me that the key wasn't valid. Maybe Windows knows the ID (Dell) & your system (not Dell) don't jive! Or maybe the person in India with whom I spoke didn't understand me.

 

[bacillus]

my dell xp cd installed without problems on an old compaq laptop!

 

[bigboxes]

If this is has been installed on your current machine, then you will need a new "key" to use it on another machine. I have been using a Dell branded Windows XP Pro in my three custom units. It's the same disc (WinXP Pro) using three different keys.

You can "delete" the Dell link by: right-click Start --> Properties --> Start Menu tab --> Customized button --> Advanced tab --> uncheck Manufacter Link in Start menu items --> OK --> Apply.

 

[furballi]

Best case scenario is that the Dell WXP CD will install with the new motherboard. However, you will PROBABLY need to contact Mr. Softie to register WXP. The agent at the end of the line will know that you're not using the DELL MB with the OS based on the supplied keycode. This individual may/may not give you a new registration key.

 

[lxskllr]

I recently used my Dell cd on a sort of new build. I had replaced most of the components in my Dell system over the last couple of years. The only original parts were the mb, case, 1 optical drive, 1 harddrive, and psu. I then replaced the case, psu and motherboard and Windows installed fine but I had to call Microsoft to actvate XP. The guy asked me what happened to the comp and I told him I replaced the motherboard. He then activated it, no problems.

You can try it and see what happens. Newegg ships in less than a week usually, so if it doesn't work you can buy a new XP and get it pretty quick.