XP CD Key help

mo786

mo786

mo786

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Joined
12 Sep 2005
Posts
215
Hi
Fixing a PC for relative

its a crappy Compaq one. The HDD Broke and I need to reinstall XP but I dont have the original CD

There is a genuine CD Key printed on the side.

Is there any reason why i cannot get another XP CD and just use that key? or could they be special codes given to compaq because i understand they may recover from a seperate [artition or they use rocvery disks instead of normal XP retail cds??

also i am guesssing its XP hoem so ONLY an PX home CD would work?
 
You will need a C D that matches the key. As it is a Compaq PC you may well need a proper Compaq CD that matches that key.

If there is a hidden partiton then try using some software that will view the hidden partition and see if it is possible to recover the XP installation files from it.
 
I think Microsoft will reissue you with replacement media if you contact them. Failing that, Compaq certainly would. :)

I'd recommend trying Microsoft first though as the Compaq one would no doubt come laden down with crap.
 
its a time senstitive repir (i.e need it done by the weekend, oh well.

i will trey and get an OEM on CD as that s whats needed for the cd key to work (as opposed to a retail CD) i think.
 
Just install using a disk matching the one on the COA sticker, I'm pretty sure that would be XP Home Edition OEM. You can use any UNBRANDED media with the key, it wont be a problem. I have unbranded XP Home OEM and have reformatted various branded PC's (Compaq, HP, Packard Bell, Dell)
 
Tute said:
I think Microsoft will reissue you with replacement media if you contact them. Failing that, Compaq certainly would. :)
Click to expand...

Yes, but normally at a cost.

Im in the exact same boat with a housemates laptop. Currently downloading an XP Home OEM CD and going to use the key on the sticker. Will let you knwo if it works
 
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