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

GavSohun

GavSohun

GavSohun

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7 Nov 2011
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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!
 
OEM means “Original Equipment Manufacturer.” OEM software is a full version of a program used by system builders and computer manufacturers. It is identical to the Retail Box version, but does not include a manual, a box, or installation support from the manufacturer. Support is usually still available on the manufacturer’s web site or on a paid-per-incident basis. OEM versions will usually include the software in the form of a CD-ROM, the Certificate of Authenticity, the product key code, the license, and a registration card. If you buy a Microsoft OEM or DSP version that does not have all of these items, there is a good chance that the software is not authentic.

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What is DSP software?

DSP means “Delivery Service Partner.” It is a version of OEM software used by smaller computer manufacturers and system builders.

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What is the difference between OEM and DSP software?

The software in both OEM versions and DSP versions is the same. OEM software normally has the hardware manufacturer’s name, such as Dell or Sony, printed on the manual and license. DSP software, however, has NO manufacturer’s name stamped on the manual or printed on the license. DSP versions usually just say “OEM.” Basically, DSP is a more generic packaging of an OEM product that is sold to smaller system builders who do not qualify for larger volume discounts and custom printing on their software.



I would not use it. Chances are it will not activate, or if it does, will not be long before it is deactivated by microsoft. If it was not DELL, from the above I would say try it, DELL tend to have generic installation which checks the computer hardware for identification.

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

What is the spec of your new PC?
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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.
 
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.
 
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.
Click to expand...

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.
 
If you used one windows you can use the next. W7 does so much of the setup auto ated and a lot lower risk of them killing it. Meaning less phone calls Tito you. Parents should always be placed on the new windows. As each windows gets more automated and keeps settings hid away from casual users.

I can't wait to get w8 on there for them, then they really would be hard for them to brake it as long as all the software they use gets updated to metro apps. But in the mean time I'm upgrading them from vista to w7 over Christmas.
 
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.
 
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