Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

[Guest SuperScot]

Hi, I'm going to be upgrading my PC soon (This is my first time, but

according to many people I've asked it's not too hard.) and I was wondering

how I'd go about reinstalling Windows XP Pro? I'm told I should reformat

since I'm upgrading the Motherboard/CPU.

 

Anyway, while reading through the XP booklet I came across the part for

activation and registration.

I was told by people I've asked that I need to phone up Microsoft and

"reset" the activation code and that it only takes 5 minutes.

Does this mean I can register fine as well?

Also, I was wondering if I can phone at any time to do this as I plan on

upgrading early morning (3-4am) and want to phone up at the time I'm

reactivating XP. Does anyone know if the call centre is 24H or not? (Also, I

live in the UK. I don't know if this will affect the call centre I'll get)

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

[Guest JS]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

Most important thing is that you "Do Not Have an OEM Windows CD" as it's

tied to the old motherboard for all practical purposes.

 

Before you replace the motherboard:

Verify your CD Key code matches what Belarc Advisor reports for your

existing install.

Belarc Advisor: http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html

Note: OEM Windows Installs usually come with a sticker on the PC or laptop

and may not match the factory installed key.

Also a number of vendors now supply restore CD(s) or have a restore

partition on the hard drive

and usually do not supply a Windows XP CD.

 

Next if you have a Windows Retail CD (Full or Upgrade) you could try a

repair install, it just might work.

See my article on this subject: "Windows XP Repair Install - How extreme can

you go"

http://www.pagestart.com/repairinstall.html

 

If the Repair Install does not work then you can always fall back and do a

"Clean Install"

 

How to do a Clean Install of Windows XP:

Start by changing the BIOS setting to Boot from CD drive first.

Make sure you have the drivers you need for your motherboard, video

card, sound card, Etc.

 

Then see below for instructions on performing a clean install:

 

From Michael Steven's: http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html

more info: http://windowsxp.mvps.org/XPClean.htm

and: http://www.theeldergeek.com/clean_installation_of_windows_xp.htm

also: http://www.bootdisk.com/

 

Windows Activation:

In most cases activating over the Internet will work just fine.

Use the phone call activation (it's automated) as a last resort.

 

JS

 

"SuperScot" <SuperScot@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

news:5F543030-FA00-4BE7-A89E-2F84278EAE5A@microsoft.com...

> Hi, I'm going to be upgrading my PC soon (This is my first time, but

> according to many people I've asked it's not too hard.) and I was

> wondering

> how I'd go about reinstalling Windows XP Pro? I'm told I should reformat

> since I'm upgrading the Motherboard/CPU.

>

> Anyway, while reading through the XP booklet I came across the part for

> activation and registration.

> I was told by people I've asked that I need to phone up Microsoft and

> "reset" the activation code and that it only takes 5 minutes.

> Does this mean I can register fine as well?

> Also, I was wondering if I can phone at any time to do this as I plan on

> upgrading early morning (3-4am) and want to phone up at the time I'm

> reactivating XP. Does anyone know if the call centre is 24H or not? (Also,

> I

> live in the UK. I don't know if this will affect the call centre I'll get)

> Any help will be greatly appreciated.

[Guest SuperScot]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

Thanks for the reply. I think my XP disc is the same as a retail one (It was

a custom built PC). And so far the GPU has been upgraded (In May, by the

person who built this) and the PSU (by me). And we were given the XP disc

with it when we got it built 4 years ago.

 

I looked for the sticker on the PC, the COA sticker. It says "Windows XP Pro

1-2 CPU OEM Software" (don't know if that matters) then gives the Product Key

underneath it. The key does match with the Key shown by Belarc. So I think

that's fine. But there was another number before the Product Key number. Do I

need to take a note of that?

 

Anyway, say I do need to do a clean install (I really think I will need to).

You said to go into the BIOS and making the PC boot from a CD. Is this after

I've put in the new motherboard/cpu? The BIOS is stored on the motherboard,

right? And will I need to set it up before starting/reinstalling windows?

And I'm guessing this has to be done the first time I switch on the PC with

the new motherboard/cpu?

Does it go straight into the BIOS when you switch on with a new motherboard?

 

Assuming I clean install and need to recreate all the users for the PC and

reinstall all the programs I guess I install the drivers for the motherboard

once Windows has started up and I'm logged in (And hopefully activated with

no problems)? And also drivers for all the other components such as GPU and

other PCI cards I will be taking from this motherboard and putting into the

new one.

 

 

 

"JS" wrote:

> Most important thing is that you "Do Not Have an OEM Windows CD" as it's

> tied to the old motherboard for all practical purposes.

>

> Before you replace the motherboard:

> Verify your CD Key code matches what Belarc Advisor reports for your

> existing install.

> Belarc Advisor: http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html

> Note: OEM Windows Installs usually come with a sticker on the PC or laptop

> and may not match the factory installed key.

> Also a number of vendors now supply restore CD(s) or have a restore

> partition on the hard drive

> and usually do not supply a Windows XP CD.

>

> Next if you have a Windows Retail CD (Full or Upgrade) you could try a

> repair install, it just might work.

> See my article on this subject: "Windows XP Repair Install - How extreme can

> you go"

> http://www.pagestart.com/repairinstall.html

>

> If the Repair Install does not work then you can always fall back and do a

> "Clean Install"

>

> How to do a Clean Install of Windows XP:

> Start by changing the BIOS setting to Boot from CD drive first.

> Make sure you have the drivers you need for your motherboard, video

> card, sound card, Etc.

>

> Then see below for instructions on performing a clean install:

>

> From Michael Steven's: http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html

> more info: http://windowsxp.mvps.org/XPClean.htm

> and: http://www.theeldergeek.com/clean_installation_of_windows_xp.htm

> also: http://www.bootdisk.com/

>

> Windows Activation:

> In most cases activating over the Internet will work just fine.

> Use the phone call activation (it's automated) as a last resort.

>

> JS

>

> "SuperScot" <SuperScot@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

> news:5F543030-FA00-4BE7-A89E-2F84278EAE5A@microsoft.com...

> > Hi, I'm going to be upgrading my PC soon (This is my first time, but

> > according to many people I've asked it's not too hard.) and I was

> > wondering

> > how I'd go about reinstalling Windows XP Pro? I'm told I should reformat

> > since I'm upgrading the Motherboard/CPU.

> >

> > Anyway, while reading through the XP booklet I came across the part for

> > activation and registration.

> > I was told by people I've asked that I need to phone up Microsoft and

> > "reset" the activation code and that it only takes 5 minutes.

> > Does this mean I can register fine as well?

> > Also, I was wondering if I can phone at any time to do this as I plan on

> > upgrading early morning (3-4am) and want to phone up at the time I'm

> > reactivating XP. Does anyone know if the call centre is 24H or not? (Also,

> > I

> > live in the UK. I don't know if this will affect the call centre I'll get)

> > Any help will be greatly appreciated.

>

>

>

[Guest sandy58]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

On Sep 7, 6:14 am, SuperScot <SuperS...@discussions.microsoft.com>

wrote:

> Thanks for the reply. I think my XP disc is the same as a retail one (It was

> a custom built PC). And so far the GPU has been upgraded (In May, by the

> person who built this) and the PSU (by me). And we were given the XP disc

> with it when we got it built 4 years ago.

>

> I looked for the sticker on the PC, the COA sticker. It says "Windows XP Pro

> 1-2 CPU OEM Software" (don't know if that matters) then gives the Product Key

> underneath it. The key does match with the Key shown by Belarc. So I think

> that's fine. But there was another number before the Product Key number. Do I

> need to take a note of that?

>

> Anyway, say I do need to do a clean install (I really think I will need to).

> You said to go into the BIOS and making the PC boot from a CD. Is this after

> I've put in the new motherboard/cpu? The BIOS is stored on the motherboard,

> right? And will I need to set it up before starting/reinstalling windows?

> And I'm guessing this has to be done the first time I switch on the PC with

> the new motherboard/cpu?

>  Does it go straight into the BIOS when you switch on with a new motherboard?

>

> Assuming I clean install and need to recreate all the users for the PC and

> reinstall all the programs I guess I install the drivers for the motherboard

> once Windows has started up and I'm logged in (And hopefully activated with

> no problems)? And also drivers for all the other components such as GPU and

> other PCI cards I will be taking from this motherboard and putting into the

> new one.

>

> "JS" wrote:

> > Most important thing is that you "Do Not Have an OEM Windows CD" as it's

> > tied to the old motherboard for all practical purposes.

>

> > Before you replace the motherboard:

> > Verify your CD Key code matches what Belarc Advisor reports for your

> > existing install.

> > Belarc Advisor:http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html

> > Note: OEM Windows Installs usually come with a sticker on the PC or laptop

> > and may not match the factory installed key.

> > Also a number of vendors now supply restore CD(s) or have a restore

> > partition on the hard drive

> > and usually do not supply a Windows XP CD.

>

> > Next if you have a Windows Retail CD (Full or Upgrade) you could try a

> > repair install, it just might work.

> > See my article on this subject: "Windows XP Repair Install - How extreme can

> > you go"

> >http://www.pagestart.com/repairinstall.html

>

> > If the Repair Install does not work then you can always fall back and do a

> > "Clean Install"

>

> > How to do a Clean Install of Windows XP:

> > Start by changing the BIOS setting to Boot from CD drive first.

> > Make sure you have the drivers you need for your motherboard, video

> > card, sound card, Etc.

>

> > Then see below for instructions on performing a clean install:

>

> > From Michael Steven's:http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html

> > more info:http://windowsxp.mvps.org/XPClean.htm

> > and:http://www.theeldergeek.com/clean_installation_of_windows_xp.htm

> > also:http://www.bootdisk.com/

>

> > Windows Activation:

> > In most cases activating over the Internet will work just fine.

> > Use the phone call activation (it's automated) as a last resort.

>

> > JS

>

> > "SuperScot" <SuperS...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

> >news:5F543030-FA00-4BE7-A89E-2F84278EAE5A@microsoft.com...

> > > Hi, I'm going to be upgrading my PC soon (This is my first time, but

> > > according to many people I've asked it's not too hard.) and I was

> > > wondering

> > > how I'd go about reinstalling Windows XP Pro? I'm told I should reformat

> > > since I'm upgrading the Motherboard/CPU.

>

> > > Anyway, while reading through the XP booklet I came across the part for

> > > activation and registration.

> > > I was told by people I've asked that I need to phone up Microsoft and

> > > "reset" the activation code and that it only takes 5 minutes.

> > > Does this mean I can register fine as well?

> > > Also, I was wondering if I can phone at any time to do this as I plan on

> > > upgrading early morning (3-4am) and want to phone up at the time I'm

> > > reactivating XP. Does anyone know if the call centre is 24H or not? (Also,

> > > I

> > > live in the UK. I don't know if this will affect the call centre I'll get)

> > > Any help will be greatly appreciated.

 

Not to encroach on "DS's" help. Your motherboard should have an

install cd. Otherwise DS has that covered. ie: "Make sure you have the

drivers you need for your motherboard, video

card, sound card, Etc."

Good luck.

[Guest DL]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

You have an OEM cd, a generic one I believe. Strictly speaking it is tied to

the original hardware (mobo)

There is no need to clean install, a repair install should suffice

http://michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

When you go to activate it you may have to use phone activation, and if so

you explain you are replacing a failed mobo (NOT upgrading) - Registration

is voluntary & meaningless

(replacing a cpu does not involve re activation)

 

"SuperScot" <SuperScot@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

news:44F54E02-A0F2-4504-B39E-3CDEFD7BC332@microsoft.com...

> Thanks for the reply. I think my XP disc is the same as a retail one (It

> was

> a custom built PC). And so far the GPU has been upgraded (In May, by the

> person who built this) and the PSU (by me). And we were given the XP disc

> with it when we got it built 4 years ago.

>

> I looked for the sticker on the PC, the COA sticker. It says "Windows XP

> Pro

> 1-2 CPU OEM Software" (don't know if that matters) then gives the Product

> Key

> underneath it. The key does match with the Key shown by Belarc. So I think

> that's fine. But there was another number before the Product Key number.

> Do I

> need to take a note of that?

>

> Anyway, say I do need to do a clean install (I really think I will need

> to).

> You said to go into the BIOS and making the PC boot from a CD. Is this

> after

> I've put in the new motherboard/cpu? The BIOS is stored on the

> motherboard,

> right? And will I need to set it up before starting/reinstalling windows?

> And I'm guessing this has to be done the first time I switch on the PC

> with

> the new motherboard/cpu?

> Does it go straight into the BIOS when you switch on with a new

> motherboard?

>

> Assuming I clean install and need to recreate all the users for the PC and

> reinstall all the programs I guess I install the drivers for the

> motherboard

> once Windows has started up and I'm logged in (And hopefully activated

> with

> no problems)? And also drivers for all the other components such as GPU

> and

> other PCI cards I will be taking from this motherboard and putting into

> the

> new one.

>

>

>

> "JS" wrote:

>

>> Most important thing is that you "Do Not Have an OEM Windows CD" as it's

>> tied to the old motherboard for all practical purposes.

>>

>> Before you replace the motherboard:

>> Verify your CD Key code matches what Belarc Advisor reports for your

>> existing install.

>> Belarc Advisor: http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html

>> Note: OEM Windows Installs usually come with a sticker on the PC or

>> laptop

>> and may not match the factory installed key.

>> Also a number of vendors now supply restore CD(s) or have a restore

>> partition on the hard drive

>> and usually do not supply a Windows XP CD.

>>

>> Next if you have a Windows Retail CD (Full or Upgrade) you could try a

>> repair install, it just might work.

>> See my article on this subject: "Windows XP Repair Install - How extreme

>> can

>> you go"

>> http://www.pagestart.com/repairinstall.html

>>

>> If the Repair Install does not work then you can always fall back and do

>> a

>> "Clean Install"

>>

>> How to do a Clean Install of Windows XP:

>> Start by changing the BIOS setting to Boot from CD drive first.

>> Make sure you have the drivers you need for your motherboard, video

>> card, sound card, Etc.

>>

>> Then see below for instructions on performing a clean install:

>>

>> From Michael Steven's:

>> http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html

>> more info: http://windowsxp.mvps.org/XPClean.htm

>> and: http://www.theeldergeek.com/clean_installation_of_windows_xp.htm

>> also: http://www.bootdisk.com/

>>

>> Windows Activation:

>> In most cases activating over the Internet will work just fine.

>> Use the phone call activation (it's automated) as a last resort.

>>

>> JS

>>

>> "SuperScot" <SuperScot@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

>> news:5F543030-FA00-4BE7-A89E-2F84278EAE5A@microsoft.com...

>> > Hi, I'm going to be upgrading my PC soon (This is my first time, but

>> > according to many people I've asked it's not too hard.) and I was

>> > wondering

>> > how I'd go about reinstalling Windows XP Pro? I'm told I should

>> > reformat

>> > since I'm upgrading the Motherboard/CPU.

>> >

>> > Anyway, while reading through the XP booklet I came across the part for

>> > activation and registration.

>> > I was told by people I've asked that I need to phone up Microsoft and

>> > "reset" the activation code and that it only takes 5 minutes.

>> > Does this mean I can register fine as well?

>> > Also, I was wondering if I can phone at any time to do this as I plan

>> > on

>> > upgrading early morning (3-4am) and want to phone up at the time I'm

>> > reactivating XP. Does anyone know if the call centre is 24H or not?

>> > (Also,

>> > I

>> > live in the UK. I don't know if this will affect the call centre I'll

>> > get)

>> > Any help will be greatly appreciated.

>>

>>

>>

[Guest JS]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

If you mean another number in the Belarc Advisor report, the number just

before the CD key code is the Product ID.

You should print a copy of the report for reference purposes, but it will be

the CD key code that you will enter during the install process and not the

product id.

 

JS

 

"SuperScot" <SuperScot@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

news:44F54E02-A0F2-4504-B39E-3CDEFD7BC332@microsoft.com...

> Thanks for the reply. I think my XP disc is the same as a retail one (It

> was

> a custom built PC). And so far the GPU has been upgraded (In May, by the

> person who built this) and the PSU (by me). And we were given the XP disc

> with it when we got it built 4 years ago.

>

> I looked for the sticker on the PC, the COA sticker. It says "Windows XP

> Pro

> 1-2 CPU OEM Software" (don't know if that matters) then gives the Product

> Key

> underneath it. The key does match with the Key shown by Belarc. So I think

> that's fine. But there was another number before the Product Key number.

> Do I

> need to take a note of that?

>

> Anyway, say I do need to do a clean install (I really think I will need

> to).

> You said to go into the BIOS and making the PC boot from a CD. Is this

> after

> I've put in the new motherboard/cpu? The BIOS is stored on the

> motherboard,

> right? And will I need to set it up before starting/reinstalling windows?

> And I'm guessing this has to be done the first time I switch on the PC

> with

> the new motherboard/cpu?

> Does it go straight into the BIOS when you switch on with a new

> motherboard?

>

> Assuming I clean install and need to recreate all the users for the PC and

> reinstall all the programs I guess I install the drivers for the

> motherboard

> once Windows has started up and I'm logged in (And hopefully activated

> with

> no problems)? And also drivers for all the other components such as GPU

> and

> other PCI cards I will be taking from this motherboard and putting into

> the

> new one.

>

>

>

> "JS" wrote:

>

>> Most important thing is that you "Do Not Have an OEM Windows CD" as it's

>> tied to the old motherboard for all practical purposes.

>>

>> Before you replace the motherboard:

>> Verify your CD Key code matches what Belarc Advisor reports for your

>> existing install.

>> Belarc Advisor: http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html

>> Note: OEM Windows Installs usually come with a sticker on the PC or

>> laptop

>> and may not match the factory installed key.

>> Also a number of vendors now supply restore CD(s) or have a restore

>> partition on the hard drive

>> and usually do not supply a Windows XP CD.

>>

>> Next if you have a Windows Retail CD (Full or Upgrade) you could try a

>> repair install, it just might work.

>> See my article on this subject: "Windows XP Repair Install - How extreme

>> can

>> you go"

>> http://www.pagestart.com/repairinstall.html

>>

>> If the Repair Install does not work then you can always fall back and do

>> a

>> "Clean Install"

>>

>> How to do a Clean Install of Windows XP:

>> Start by changing the BIOS setting to Boot from CD drive first.

>> Make sure you have the drivers you need for your motherboard, video

>> card, sound card, Etc.

>>

>> Then see below for instructions on performing a clean install:

>>

>> From Michael Steven's:

>> http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html

>> more info: http://windowsxp.mvps.org/XPClean.htm

>> and: http://www.theeldergeek.com/clean_installation_of_windows_xp.htm

>> also: http://www.bootdisk.com/

>>

>> Windows Activation:

>> In most cases activating over the Internet will work just fine.

>> Use the phone call activation (it's automated) as a last resort.

>>

>> JS

>>

>> "SuperScot" <SuperScot@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

>> news:5F543030-FA00-4BE7-A89E-2F84278EAE5A@microsoft.com...

>> > Hi, I'm going to be upgrading my PC soon (This is my first time, but

>> > according to many people I've asked it's not too hard.) and I was

>> > wondering

>> > how I'd go about reinstalling Windows XP Pro? I'm told I should

>> > reformat

>> > since I'm upgrading the Motherboard/CPU.

>> >

>> > Anyway, while reading through the XP booklet I came across the part for

>> > activation and registration.

>> > I was told by people I've asked that I need to phone up Microsoft and

>> > "reset" the activation code and that it only takes 5 minutes.

>> > Does this mean I can register fine as well?

>> > Also, I was wondering if I can phone at any time to do this as I plan

>> > on

>> > upgrading early morning (3-4am) and want to phone up at the time I'm

>> > reactivating XP. Does anyone know if the call centre is 24H or not?

>> > (Also,

>> > I

>> > live in the UK. I don't know if this will affect the call centre I'll

>> > get)

>> > Any help will be greatly appreciated.

>>

>>

>>

[Guest Daave]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

"DL" <address@invalid> wrote in message

news:eKFqV8MEJHA.4828@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...

> You have an OEM cd, a generic one I believe. Strictly speaking it is

> tied to the original hardware (mobo)

 

If you read the *XP* EULA (Vista may be different), it says that it is

tied to the *computer*. Although there are those who believe that a new

motherboard constitutes a new PC, that is *not* what the EULA states.

 

It is certainly possible to reinstall Windows, using the same OEM CD and

license, even when putting in a new motherboard. Arguably it is the OEM

that decides what constitutes a new PC. I am aware that with certain

branded OEM versions of Windows, they are tied to a particular mobo. But

if we are talking about a generic OEM, then the person who built (or who

currently owns) the PC is effectively the OEM. And if that person

chooses not to accept the notion that a new mobo means a new PC (nothing

unethical about this at all IMO), then there is nothing wrong with

upgrading a mobo.

[Guest Bruce Chambers]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

SuperScot wrote:

> Hi, I'm going to be upgrading my PC soon (This is my first time, but

> according to many people I've asked it's not too hard.) and I was wondering

> how I'd go about reinstalling Windows XP Pro? I'm told I should reformat

> since I'm upgrading the Motherboard/CPU.

>

 

Only in rare instances is a complete re-installation necessary.

 

Normally, and assuming a retail license (many factory-installed OEM

installations are BIOS-locked to a specific motherboard chipset and

therefore are *not* transferable to a new motherboard - check yours

before starting), unless the new motherboard is virtually identical

(same chipset, same IDE controllers, same BIOS version, etc.) to the one

on which the WinXP installation was originally performed, you'll need to

perform a repair (a.k.a. in-place upgrade) installation, at the very least:

 

How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade of Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/directory/article.asp?ID=KB;EN-US;Q315341

 

Changing a Motherboard or Moving a Hard Drive with WinXP Installed

http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/moving_xp.html

 

The "why" is quite simple, really, and has nothing to do with

licensing issues, per se; it's a purely technical matter, at this point.

You've pulled the proverbial hardware rug out from under the OS. (If

you don't like -- or get -- the rug analogy, think of it as picking up a

Cape Cod style home and then setting it down onto a Ranch style

foundation. It just isn't going to fit.) WinXP, like Win2K before it,

is not nearly as "promiscuous" as Win9x when it comes to accepting any

old hardware configuration you throw at it. On installation it

"tailors" itself to the specific hardware found. This is one of the

reasons that the entire WinNT/2K/XP OS family is so much more stable

than the Win9x group.

 

As always when undertaking such a significant change, back up any

important data before starting.

 

> Anyway, while reading through the XP booklet I came across the part for

> activation and registration.

> I was told by people I've asked that I need to phone up Microsoft and

> "reset" the activation code and that it only takes 5 minutes.

 

 

Yes, this will also probably require re-activation, unless you have

a Volume Licensed version of WinXP Pro installed. If it's been more

than 120 days since you last activated that specific Product Key, you'll

most likely be able to activate via the Internet without problem. If

it's been less, you might have to make a 5 minute phone call.

 

> Does this mean I can register fine as well?

 

 

There's no need to register, at all. And, if you've already registered

that particular license, there's certainly be no need to do so again.

Registration is *always* optional, provides very little benefit to

licensees (a couple free support calls within the first 60 to 90 days of

the initial installation, if I remember correctly), mostly just

marketing data for Microsoft.

 

 

> Also, I was wondering if I can phone at any time to do this as I plan on

> upgrading early morning (3-4am) and want to phone up at the time I'm

> reactivating XP. Does anyone know if the call centre is 24H or not? (Also, I

> live in the UK. I don't know if this will affect the call centre I'll get)

> Any help will be greatly appreciated.

 

Hopefully, one of the many UK readers od this newsgroup will know the

answer to this.

 

 

--

 

Bruce Chambers

 

Help us help you:

http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html

 

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/kb/555375

 

They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary

safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. ~Benjamin Franklin

 

Many people would rather die than think; in fact, most do. ~Bertrand Russell

 

The philosopher has never killed any priests, whereas the priest has

killed a great many philosophers.

~ Denis Diderot

[Guest Bruce Chambers]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

DL wrote:

> You have an OEM cd, a generic one I believe. Strictly speaking it is tied to

> the original hardware (mobo)

 

 

Not so, according to the EULA.

 

Some people mistakenly believe that the motherboard is the key

component that defines the "original computer," but the OEM EULA itself

does not make any such distinction. Others have said (tongue in cheek)

that one could successfully argue that it's the PC's case that is the

deciding component, as that is where one is instructed to affix the OEM

CoA label w/Product Key. Again, the EULA does *not* specifically define

any single component as the computer. Licensed Microsoft Systems

Builders, who are allowed to distribute OEM licenses with computers they

build and sell, are _contractually_ obligated to "define" the computer

as the motherboard, but this limitation/definition can't be applied to

the end user until the EULA is re-written.

 

Microsoft has, to date, been very careful _not_ to *publicly*

define when an incrementally upgraded computer ceases to be the original

computer. The closest I've ever seen a Microsoft employee come to this

definition (in a public forum) is to tell the person making the inquiry

to consult the PC's manufacturer. As the OEM license's support is

solely the responsibility of said manufacturer, they should determine

what sort of hardware changes to allow before the warranty and support

agreements are voided. To paraphrase: An incrementally upgraded

computer ceases to be the original computer, as pertains to the OEM

EULA, only when the *OEM* says it's a different computer. If you've

built the system yourself, and used a generic OEM CD, then _you_ are the

"OEM," and _you_ get to decide when you'll no longer support your product.

 

 

--

 

Bruce Chambers

 

Help us help you:

http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html

 

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/kb/555375

 

They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary

safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. ~Benjamin Franklin

 

Many people would rather die than think; in fact, most do. ~Bertrand Russell

 

The philosopher has never killed any priests, whereas the priest has

killed a great many philosophers.

~ Denis Diderot

[Guest SuperScot]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

Thanks again for all the replies.

 

As I've said this was a custom built PC, so I don't think my XP is tied to

the motherboard. I phoned the person who built the PC a few weeks ago and

told him I plan on upgrading the motherboard/CPU/RAM. He didn't make any

mention that XP was only going to work with the motherboard he put in.

He fixed the PC in early 2007 when the old HDD died, so he must've had to

reinstall. The other major thing he's done to this PC was upgrade the GPU

from an x800xt to a geforce 8600gts in May.

He runs a PC shop and I think they only do custom builds anyway, so I don't

think XP will only work on this motherboard anyway. I could just phone and

ask to make sure though, I suppose.

 

Anyway, when I've put in the new motherboard/cpu/ram and switch on, should I

have the Windows XP disc in? Or will the PC boot up into the BIOS since it's

a new motherboard? And from there I have to set the BIOS to boot from the CD,

then I can do my repair/clean install from there on?

 

I'm just unsure of the order to this in. Do motherboard drivers need to be

installed before or after XP?

 

I think I should mention the motherboard right now is an ASUS P5GD1 and I'll

be upgrading to an ASUS P5N-E SLI 650. The CPU will be upgraded from a P4 to

Q6600 and 2GB DDR RAM to 4GB DDR2 RAM. I don't know if this will help with

the BIOS question.

[Guest SuperScot]

RE: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

Hi again. I just talked with the person who's helped me so far and with the

help from you guys I've managed to get the jist of what I'm doing.

Is this essentially all correct in order:

 

1. Upgrade parts.

2. Enter BIOS and set to startup from CD.

3. Start up from CD and install windows.

4. Install mobo drivers.

5. Install PCI drivers.

6. Install programs.

7. Recreate all the users.

8. Enter BIOS and change to start from HDD.

 

That's it, right?

[Guest JS]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

Some changes:

1. Upgrade parts.

2. Enter BIOS and set to startup from CD.

3. Start up from CD and install windows.

4. Install mobo drivers.

5. Install PCI drivers.

6. Test PC for 24 hrs.

PassMark BurnInTestT is a software tool that allows all the major

sub-systems of a computer to be simultaneously (or independently) stress

tested for endurance, reliability and stability. (Has 30 day free eval, you

will need to restart the testing about every 15 minutes during the eval).

http://www.passmark.com/products/bit.htm

7. Activate Windows.

8. Recreate all the users.

9. Install AV software/Firewall, Programs and apply updates.

10. Windows Updates (Turn off Automatic Updates, Use Custom option, don't

install any MS Driver updates)

http://www.update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/v6/default.aspx?ln=en-us

11. Enter BIOS and change to start from HDD.

 

JS

http://www.pagestart.com

 

 

 

"SuperScot" <SuperScot@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

news:86A1F191-0096-4906-BF4D-CC0E89CFCC03@microsoft.com...

> Hi again. I just talked with the person who's helped me so far and with

> the

> help from you guys I've managed to get the jist of what I'm doing.

> Is this essentially all correct in order:

>

> 1. Upgrade parts.

> 2. Enter BIOS and set to startup from CD.

> 3. Start up from CD and install windows.

> 4. Install mobo drivers.

> 5. Install PCI drivers.

> 6. Install programs.

> 7. Recreate all the users.

> 8. Enter BIOS and change to start from HDD.

>

> That's it, right?

[Guest SuperScot]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

Thanks, that should really help out!

One last thing, do I have to make sure no usb devices are plugged in and

have only the keyboard/mouse plugged in to PS/2 ports and the speakers

plugged in?

 

"JS" wrote:

> Some changes:

> 1. Upgrade parts.

> 2. Enter BIOS and set to startup from CD.

> 3. Start up from CD and install windows.

> 4. Install mobo drivers.

> 5. Install PCI drivers.

> 6. Test PC for 24 hrs.

> PassMark BurnInTestT is a software tool that allows all the major

> sub-systems of a computer to be simultaneously (or independently) stress

> tested for endurance, reliability and stability. (Has 30 day free eval, you

> will need to restart the testing about every 15 minutes during the eval).

> http://www.passmark.com/products/bit.htm

> 7. Activate Windows.

> 8. Recreate all the users.

> 9. Install AV software/Firewall, Programs and apply updates.

> 10. Windows Updates (Turn off Automatic Updates, Use Custom option, don't

> install any MS Driver updates)

> http://www.update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/v6/default.aspx?ln=en-us

> 11. Enter BIOS and change to start from HDD.

>

> JS

> http://www.pagestart.com

>

>

>

> "SuperScot" <SuperScot@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

> news:86A1F191-0096-4906-BF4D-CC0E89CFCC03@microsoft.com...

> > Hi again. I just talked with the person who's helped me so far and with

> > the

> > help from you guys I've managed to get the jist of what I'm doing.

> > Is this essentially all correct in order:

> >

> > 1. Upgrade parts.

> > 2. Enter BIOS and set to startup from CD.

> > 3. Start up from CD and install windows.

> > 4. Install mobo drivers.

> > 5. Install PCI drivers.

> > 6. Install programs.

> > 7. Recreate all the users.

> > 8. Enter BIOS and change to start from HDD.

> >

> > That's it, right?

>

>

>

[Guest JS]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

Keyboard and Mouse only, no need to plug in speakers until after you finish

installing Windows and you install your drivers.

 

JS

 

"SuperScot" <SuperScot@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

news:93C60AF7-F678-4F1A-8F17-692D6ABDFC55@microsoft.com...

> Thanks, that should really help out!

> One last thing, do I have to make sure no usb devices are plugged in and

> have only the keyboard/mouse plugged in to PS/2 ports and the speakers

> plugged in?

>

> "JS" wrote:

>

>> Some changes:

>> 1. Upgrade parts.

>> 2. Enter BIOS and set to startup from CD.

>> 3. Start up from CD and install windows.

>> 4. Install mobo drivers.

>> 5. Install PCI drivers.

>> 6. Test PC for 24 hrs.

>> PassMark BurnInTestT is a software tool that allows all the major

>> sub-systems of a computer to be simultaneously (or independently) stress

>> tested for endurance, reliability and stability. (Has 30 day free eval,

>> you

>> will need to restart the testing about every 15 minutes during the eval).

>> http://www.passmark.com/products/bit.htm

>> 7. Activate Windows.

>> 8. Recreate all the users.

>> 9. Install AV software/Firewall, Programs and apply updates.

>> 10. Windows Updates (Turn off Automatic Updates, Use Custom option, don't

>> install any MS Driver updates)

>> http://www.update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/v6/default.aspx?ln=en-us

>> 11. Enter BIOS and change to start from HDD.

>>

>> JS

>> http://www.pagestart.com

>>

>>

>>

>> "SuperScot" <SuperScot@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

>> news:86A1F191-0096-4906-BF4D-CC0E89CFCC03@microsoft.com...

>> > Hi again. I just talked with the person who's helped me so far and with

>> > the

>> > help from you guys I've managed to get the jist of what I'm doing.

>> > Is this essentially all correct in order:

>> >

>> > 1. Upgrade parts.

>> > 2. Enter BIOS and set to startup from CD.

>> > 3. Start up from CD and install windows.

>> > 4. Install mobo drivers.

>> > 5. Install PCI drivers.

>> > 6. Install programs.

>> > 7. Recreate all the users.

>> > 8. Enter BIOS and change to start from HDD.

>> >

>> > That's it, right?

>>

>>

>>

[Guest smlunatick]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

On Sep 11, 3:06 pm, "JS" <@> wrote:

> Keyboard and Mouse only, no need to plug in speakers until after you finish

> installing Windows and you install your drivers.

>

> JS

>

> "SuperScot" <SuperS...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

>

> news:93C60AF7-F678-4F1A-8F17-692D6ABDFC55@microsoft.com...

>

> > Thanks, that should really help out!

> > One last thing, do I have to make sure no usb devices are plugged in and

> > have only the keyboard/mouse plugged in to PS/2 ports and the speakers

> > plugged in?

>

> > "JS" wrote:

>

> >> Some changes:

> >> 1. Upgrade parts.

> >> 2. Enter BIOS and set to startup from CD.

> >> 3. Start up from CD and install windows.

> >> 4. Install mobo drivers.

> >> 5. Install PCI drivers.

> >> 6. Test PC for 24 hrs.

> >> PassMark BurnInTestT is a software tool that allows all the major

> >> sub-systems of a computer to be simultaneously (or independently) stress

> >> tested for endurance, reliability and stability. (Has 30 day free eval,

> >> you

> >> will need to restart the testing about every 15 minutes during the eval).

> >>http://www.passmark.com/products/bit.htm

> >> 7. Activate Windows.

> >> 8. Recreate all the users.

> >> 9. Install AV software/Firewall, Programs and apply updates.

> >> 10. Windows Updates (Turn off Automatic Updates, Use Custom option, don't

> >> install any MS Driver updates)

> >>http://www.update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/v6/default.aspx?ln=en-us

> >> 11. Enter BIOS and change to start from HDD.

>

> >> JS

> >>http://www.pagestart.com

>

> >> "SuperScot" <SuperS...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

> >>news:86A1F191-0096-4906-BF4D-CC0E89CFCC03@microsoft.com...

> >> > Hi again. I just talked with the person who's helped me so far and with

> >> > the

> >> > help from you guys I've managed to get the jist of what I'm doing.

> >> > Is this essentially all correct in order:

>

> >> > 1. Upgrade parts.

> >> > 2. Enter BIOS and set to startup from CD.

> >> > 3. Start up from CD and install windows.

> >> > 4. Install mobo drivers.

> >> > 5. Install PCI drivers.

> >> > 6. Install programs.

> >> > 7. Recreate all the users.

> >> > 8. Enter BIOS and change to start from HDD.

>

> >> > That's it, right?

 

I would also add that only the main boot drive should be connected.

XP can detect the "other" drive and may place XP on that one.

 

Also, once everything is completely set up, you could consider taking

an image backup with utilities like Ghost or True Image. This is

exactly like mostt "name-brand" recovery system delivered with several

PCs. It is a lot faster to restore from a recovery image than it is

to re-install everything.

[Guest JS]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

smlunatick has a very good point:

That image backup can worth it's weight in gold.

After you have spent all that time to install Windows,

Installing the Drivers and Activating Windows.

 

Then create an Image Backup.

This will become your "Clean Install" baseline backup/recovery image.

 

If during the install of the security patches from Windows Updates

or software applications something should go wrong you can always

use the image backup to go back to the "Clean Install" baseline.

 

Next: If the Windows Update go OK,(there could be a lot of them

being downloaded and installed) make a second image backup.

 

Then install your software applications and if all is well, make

a third image backup. Label each backup clearly so if you

need to do a restore, you know exactly in time your PC

will be restored to.

 

AND: If you decide to install Windows Service Pack 3 sometime

in the future, you know what coming in my next sentence ;-)

Make an image backup before installing SP3. It's the quickest way

to get out of any SP3 problems.

 

JS

 

 

"smlunatick" <yveslec@gmail.com> wrote in message

news:842f1250-3479-4d48-82c9-ef8ea6acac36@z72g2000hsb.googlegroups.com...

On Sep 11, 3:06 pm, "JS" <@> wrote:

> Keyboard and Mouse only, no need to plug in speakers until after you

> finish

> installing Windows and you install your drivers.

>

> JS

>

> "SuperScot" <SuperS...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

>

> news:93C60AF7-F678-4F1A-8F17-692D6ABDFC55@microsoft.com...

>

> > Thanks, that should really help out!

> > One last thing, do I have to make sure no usb devices are plugged in and

> > have only the keyboard/mouse plugged in to PS/2 ports and the speakers

> > plugged in?

>

> > "JS" wrote:

>

> >> Some changes:

> >> 1. Upgrade parts.

> >> 2. Enter BIOS and set to startup from CD.

> >> 3. Start up from CD and install windows.

> >> 4. Install mobo drivers.

> >> 5. Install PCI drivers.

> >> 6. Test PC for 24 hrs.

> >> PassMark BurnInTestT is a software tool that allows all the major

> >> sub-systems of a computer to be simultaneously (or independently)

> >> stress

> >> tested for endurance, reliability and stability. (Has 30 day free eval,

> >> you

> >> will need to restart the testing about every 15 minutes during the

> >> eval).

> >>http://www.passmark.com/products/bit.htm

> >> 7. Activate Windows.

> >> 8. Recreate all the users.

> >> 9. Install AV software/Firewall, Programs and apply updates.

> >> 10. Windows Updates (Turn off Automatic Updates, Use Custom option,

> >> don't

> >> install any MS Driver updates)

> >>http://www.update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/v6/default.aspx?ln=en-us

> >> 11. Enter BIOS and change to start from HDD.

>

> >> JS

> >>http://www.pagestart.com

>

> >> "SuperScot" <SuperS...@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message

> >>news:86A1F191-0096-4906-BF4D-CC0E89CFCC03@microsoft.com...

> >> > Hi again. I just talked with the person who's helped me so far and

> >> > with

> >> > the

> >> > help from you guys I've managed to get the jist of what I'm doing.

> >> > Is this essentially all correct in order:

>

> >> > 1. Upgrade parts.

> >> > 2. Enter BIOS and set to startup from CD.

> >> > 3. Start up from CD and install windows.

> >> > 4. Install mobo drivers.

> >> > 5. Install PCI drivers.

> >> > 6. Install programs.

> >> > 7. Recreate all the users.

> >> > 8. Enter BIOS and change to start from HDD.

>

> >> > That's it, right?

 

I would also add that only the main boot drive should be connected.

XP can detect the "other" drive and may place XP on that one.

 

Also, once everything is completely set up, you could consider taking

an image backup with utilities like Ghost or True Image. This is

exactly like mostt "name-brand" recovery system delivered with several

PCs. It is a lot faster to restore from a recovery image than it is

to re-install everything.

[Guest SuperScot]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

After researching a bit more and reading different things I am more confused

than ever about this! I definately do have an OEM (I assume generic since

this was built by an independant computer shop) version of Windows.

This seems to be close to what I'm needing as an answer about activating

Windows again.

 

The question is though, when I have upgraded and everything and get to the

point of activating my Windows XP OEM again, what should I do? I assume I

must activate by phone and then what? Do as DL suggested and say I am

replacing a failed mobo? Is this the best course of action?

I think I'm really close to an answer and if this is what I must do, let me

know exactly how you'd go about it?

 

Thanks in advance for answers on the matter! :)

 

"Daave" wrote:

> "DL" <address@invalid> wrote in message

> news:eKFqV8MEJHA.4828@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...

> > You have an OEM cd, a generic one I believe. Strictly speaking it is

> > tied to the original hardware (mobo)

>

> If you read the *XP* EULA (Vista may be different), it says that it is

> tied to the *computer*. Although there are those who believe that a new

> motherboard constitutes a new PC, that is *not* what the EULA states.

>

> It is certainly possible to reinstall Windows, using the same OEM CD and

> license, even when putting in a new motherboard. Arguably it is the OEM

> that decides what constitutes a new PC. I am aware that with certain

> branded OEM versions of Windows, they are tied to a particular mobo. But

> if we are talking about a generic OEM, then the person who built (or who

> currently owns) the PC is effectively the OEM. And if that person

> chooses not to accept the notion that a new mobo means a new PC (nothing

> unethical about this at all IMO), then there is nothing wrong with

> upgrading a mobo.

>

>

>

[Guest Daave]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

It's possible you might automatically activate online. If not, the

telephone call should be short and relatively painless. For more info on

WPA, see:

 

http://www.aumha.org/win5/a/wpa.php

 

Yes, if an OEM version of XP is not branded (e.g., Dell), it is

considered a generic OEM version AKA System Builder version.

 

DL's suggestion is fine. Even if you are upgrading a motherboard, there

is no reason you need to volunteer this information. Simply say you

replaced a failed motherboard. As far as I'm concerned, a white lie to

the effect that it is the same model (in the event you are being pumped

for more information) is ethical in this particular situation.

 

Although the XP EULA states that the system builder/owner of the OEM

license determines what a computer is, there are those who take it upon

themselves to define what a computer is. Many consider the motherboard

the PC, and their take is that if you upgrade the motherboard, the PC

has changed and therefore your old OEM license is no longer valid.

Furthermore, a number of these people who misinterpret the EULA are

Microsoft employees, and it's possible one of these people will answer

your phone call.

 

As I see it, you have the *same* computer with an upgraded motherboard.

Your license is still valid.

 

 

 

 

SuperScot wrote:

> After researching a bit more and reading different things I am more

> confused than ever about this! I definately do have an OEM (I assume

> generic since this was built by an independant computer shop) version

> of Windows.

> This seems to be close to what I'm needing as an answer about

> activating Windows again.

>

> The question is though, when I have upgraded and everything and get

> to the point of activating my Windows XP OEM again, what should I do?

> I assume I must activate by phone and then what? Do as DL suggested

> and say I am replacing a failed mobo? Is this the best course of

> action?

> I think I'm really close to an answer and if this is what I must do,

> let me know exactly how you'd go about it?

>

> Thanks in advance for answers on the matter! :)

>

> "Daave" wrote:

>

>> "DL" <address@invalid> wrote in message

>> news:eKFqV8MEJHA.4828@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...

>>> You have an OEM cd, a generic one I believe. Strictly speaking it is

>>> tied to the original hardware (mobo)

>>

>> If you read the *XP* EULA (Vista may be different), it says that it

>> is tied to the *computer*. Although there are those who believe that

>> a new motherboard constitutes a new PC, that is *not* what the EULA

>> states.

>>

>> It is certainly possible to reinstall Windows, using the same OEM CD

>> and license, even when putting in a new motherboard. Arguably it is

>> the OEM that decides what constitutes a new PC. I am aware that with

>> certain branded OEM versions of Windows, they are tied to a

>> particular mobo. But if we are talking about a generic OEM, then the

>> person who built (or who currently owns) the PC is effectively the

>> OEM. And if that person chooses not to accept the notion that a new

>> mobo means a new PC (nothing unethical about this at all IMO), then

>> there is nothing wrong with upgrading a mobo.

[Guest SuperScot]

Re: Upgrading question. Resetting activation?

 

Thanks for the helpful answer.

You may be right about it being possible it might activate automatically

online.

I have heard from 2 sources that MS have stopped having OEMs locked only to

a motherboard now. So hopefully I don't have to phone up to activate. Thanks

again.

 

"Daave" wrote:

> It's possible you might automatically activate online. If not, the

> telephone call should be short and relatively painless. For more info on

> WPA, see:

>

> http://www.aumha.org/win5/a/wpa.php

>

> Yes, if an OEM version of XP is not branded (e.g., Dell), it is

> considered a generic OEM version AKA System Builder version.

>

> DL's suggestion is fine. Even if you are upgrading a motherboard, there

> is no reason you need to volunteer this information. Simply say you

> replaced a failed motherboard. As far as I'm concerned, a white lie to

> the effect that it is the same model (in the event you are being pumped

> for more information) is ethical in this particular situation.

>

> Although the XP EULA states that the system builder/owner of the OEM

> license determines what a computer is, there are those who take it upon

> themselves to define what a computer is. Many consider the motherboard

> the PC, and their take is that if you upgrade the motherboard, the PC

> has changed and therefore your old OEM license is no longer valid.

> Furthermore, a number of these people who misinterpret the EULA are

> Microsoft employees, and it's possible one of these people will answer

> your phone call.

>

> As I see it, you have the *same* computer with an upgraded motherboard.

> Your license is still valid.

>

>

>

>

> SuperScot wrote:

> > After researching a bit more and reading different things I am more

> > confused than ever about this! I definately do have an OEM (I assume

> > generic since this was built by an independant computer shop) version

> > of Windows.

> > This seems to be close to what I'm needing as an answer about

> > activating Windows again.

> >

> > The question is though, when I have upgraded and everything and get

> > to the point of activating my Windows XP OEM again, what should I do?

> > I assume I must activate by phone and then what? Do as DL suggested

> > and say I am replacing a failed mobo? Is this the best course of

> > action?

> > I think I'm really close to an answer and if this is what I must do,

> > let me know exactly how you'd go about it?

> >

> > Thanks in advance for answers on the matter! :)

> >

> > "Daave" wrote:

> >

> >> "DL" <address@invalid> wrote in message

> >> news:eKFqV8MEJHA.4828@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...

> >>> You have an OEM cd, a generic one I believe. Strictly speaking it is

> >>> tied to the original hardware (mobo)

> >>

> >> If you read the *XP* EULA (Vista may be different), it says that it

> >> is tied to the *computer*. Although there are those who believe that

> >> a new motherboard constitutes a new PC, that is *not* what the EULA

> >> states.

> >>

> >> It is certainly possible to reinstall Windows, using the same OEM CD

> >> and license, even when putting in a new motherboard. Arguably it is

> >> the OEM that decides what constitutes a new PC. I am aware that with

> >> certain branded OEM versions of Windows, they are tied to a

> >> particular mobo. But if we are talking about a generic OEM, then the

> >> person who built (or who currently owns) the PC is effectively the

> >> OEM. And if that person chooses not to accept the notion that a new

> >> mobo means a new PC (nothing unethical about this at all IMO), then

> >> there is nothing wrong with upgrading a mobo.

>

>

>