Hello, I've bought a DELL installed Windows XP SP2 for several years. Now my motherboard is dead, I chage a new motherboard. My question is : Can I use DELL COA key to activate with new motherboard ? If yes, Which Windows edition must I install Windows XP VL MSDN or Windows XP Retail MSDN ? Thanks for your advice and help. Have a great day.
if the replacement mainboard is dell, it should be no problem. Aftermarket mainboard will need the slp string added to the bios to make it genuine with the OEMBIOs changer. Really doesnt matter which version is installed, with sp3, you can install without serial. I can guarantee the install will not accept the COA.
@mohamedkamel ,911medic, urie . Thanks so much for all your reply and advice. I replaced a new motherboard Not DELL. What I confuse is . Can I use DELL COA Key as Product Key to enter as installing time ? if so what edition should I use Retail or VL to accept this DELL COA key ? Thank again.
You should ditch the COA key. Just add SLP string in bios & use proper OEMBIOS set with MS generic OEM:SLP key.
neither.. u neeed OEM to use the key.. retail doesnt take the key under laptop. (ive used dell cd for HP with key under it) but its easier to use SLP OEMBIOS changer method.
The Windows XP OEM EULA does not tie the licence to the motherboard. The idea of the "computer" being represented by the motherboard was introduced with later versions of the EULA. You are therefore legally allowed to replace the motherboard with any other motherboard, and still be allowed to use your Windows XP OEM licence with the computer. The COA sticker represents your legal entitlement to one licence of Windows XP OEM on that one computer. The sticker should say whether it is for the Home or Professional edition. The legal solution is to reinstall with an appropriate Windows XP OEM copy, either Home or Professional, matching the sticker. Note that OEM is not the same as Retail or VL. During installation, enter the key on the sticker. For activation, you will probably have to phone Microsoft. They must activate it for you, as you are legally entitled to it, even with a replaced motherboard. Don't let a representative tell you otherwise on the phone.
Hi All, Thank you for all your helpful info and advice. I found out the way how to ..... I use MSDN Retail CD and create 2 files SETUPP.INI & WINNT.SIF , then Add them to I368. It works ... and activates online perfectly. Have a great day !