To use or not to use: Windows XP SP3 DSP OEI CD

GavSohun · 15 Nov 2011 at 13:24

Hi,

After successfully building my first PC

I ordered a copy of XP with service pack 3 from Amazon, it's on a DSP OEI CD. After some research into it via Google I got the impression that it would work fine.

The disc I received in the mail however, aside from being a SP2 disc, is also a Dell reinstallation disc which states that it will only install on a Dell PC that has the software on there already. The Microsoft label with the Product Key on it was stuck on the plastic the disc and manual came in and is for a Siemens computer.

I'm getting mixed messages online whether to use this disc or not. Does anyone have any advice as to whether I should use the disc?

Thanks!

GavSohun · 15 Nov 2011 at 16:10

@ nkata Thanks for the advice.

I was starting to lean towards getting a refund as it did seem a bit dodgy.

GavSohun · 15 Nov 2011 at 16:21

Beerbaron said:
I would personally buy a retail version. What is wrong with Windows 7?

What is the spec of your new PC?

Well I'm intending to build a nice gaming rig for myself, but having no previous experience building a PC, I didn't want to spend a lot of money on high end components only for me to mess something up.

I figured I'd take advantage of my parents need for a low spec PC for basic word processing and e-mail that they needed for the family business and build them a simple dual core rig for work. I thought that Windows XP would be better for them as they have some experience with it and would be easier for them to use.

GavSohun · 15 Nov 2011 at 16:48

Glaucus said:
It's xp, so shouldn't be used anyway. Outdated os, that shows its age.

As its for parents w7 is a much better way to go, far less issues and chances of them borking it as well as w7 is far far far simpler with w7 handling most of the setup, using xp makes no sense.

I haven't had any experience on w7 to be honest. If it's as simple as you say then it sounds like I have indeed picked the wrong version of Windows. Like I said previously I assumed that since they'd both used XP on their home computer it would be a good idea for them to use it at work also.

GavSohun · 15 Nov 2011 at 17:16

Reducing the number of IT related phone calls I get from them would be very nice actually! From what you've said w7 sounds very suited to them.

Thanks so much for your advice btw, I've been using a MacBook for quite a while now and haven't touched a Windows PC for a long long time. The allure of PC gaming has drawn me back to PC's and now I can't wait to build my own rig. It's reassuring to know that I've managed to find a forum with helpful users like yourself to refer to if I get overwhelmed or need any help.