XPS 9530 motherboard replacement and activation

Hi,
I need to replace the motherboard in my dell xps 15 9530. I found a new or factory refurbished on ebay.
What will I need on the sw side to get it up and running, if I am done with the hw replacement?
The manual says at the end of the replacement to enter service tag in bios. What is a service tag? Is it a sticker on the motherboard, or do I need anything else?
I have earlier recovered my win 8.1 activation code from the bios, will I need it when replacing?
Can I just replace the motherboard and start the computer, or do I need to reinstall windows too and shall I format the ssd?
Any and all help greatly appreciated!
Thanks,

 

Just replace the board, a refurb will probably still have it's windows 8 licence and as an OEM should activate ok.
I doubt it will ask for a new service tag as again you are buying a 2nd hand from someone (ie not Dell) who will not have the tools to reset the service tag.
The service tag is under the flap on the base and the big clue is it says "service tag" above the alphanumeric service tag
You have to open the flap to remove 2 posi screws so I doubt you will miss it on your adventure.

 

Gonzo is generally correct (as he tends to be!).

Two notes for you, though:

1) Windows will probably need re-activation when you finish the motherboard swap, since the hardware configuration of the machine changed so much. If your laptop has a Windows product key sticker on the bottom, then use that product key. Otherwise, your Windows product key will be stored in the BIOS; and Windows should automatically pull that product key for you during (re)activation.

2) Don't worry about the Service Tag at all. The Service Tag being stored in the BIOS is merely for convenience (because it can be digitally read). The important Service Tag is the one found on the bottom of the laptop as a label / sticker. Any time Dell ever asks for a Service Tag (for warranty repairs, for example), you want to give them the Service Tag found on the bottom of your laptop.