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    Install Window OS on none-dell pc

    Discussion in 'Dell' started by foxnews, May 4, 2006.

  1. foxnews

    foxnews Notebook Consultant

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    it is possible to install Window OS from dell CD to a none-Dell pc?

    thanks,
     
  2. ZaZ

    ZaZ Super Model Super Moderator

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    This is unlikely as Dell has them locked to their PCs for quite some time.
     
  3. Incog

    Incog Notebook Enthusiast

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    Before wiping my e1505, I tested installing MCE on a Dell optiplex gx620 desktop and it went just fine with the re-installation media and the code from under my lappy. Granted I didn't try it on another brand computer, but I am assuming that it will work. I might try it this weekend on a computer I built at home if I get the time.

    Inc
     
  4. esoterica

    esoterica Notebook Consultant

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    You didn't hear it from me, but yes.
     
  5. Genom

    Genom Notebook Guru

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    Depends. There are some OS CD's that are BIOS locked so they will not work. Most of the oens that require you to put in a key will work on other computers however.
     
  6. foxnews

    foxnews Notebook Consultant

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    I put the dell OS cd in my none-dell computer and it asked for product key.
    I input the key found from sticker on the dell pc but it said invalid key?

    any idea why?

    so far, I heard a mix of yes and no. is there any trick of how to install Dell OS on none-dell pc?
     
  7. kegobeer

    kegobeer 1 hr late but moving fast

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    Looks like you are out of luck. Your version requires a Dell machine to install. I haven't seen any instructions on how to get around that check, but you may have luck with a Google search or a search of this forum.

    You might also get some assistance from Dell. After all, you did purchase the operating system, so it only seems right that you can use it on any machine you choose. If your laptop was destroyed tomorrow, and you wanted to install XP on a new, homemade computer, I would think you have every right to do so.

    Edit: From what I've gathered from posts on other sites, your copy is an OEM version licensed to the laptop you bought. It is non-transferrable. Call Dell for further clarification.
     
  8. ZaZ

    ZaZ Super Model Super Moderator

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    That is why Dell pays $40-50 for a copy of Windows and it is $200 in the store. It is all spelled out in the EULA which no one ever reads.
     
  9. James

    James Notebook Evangelist NBR Reviewer

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    Hmmm, I've successfully installed the Windows media center edition CD that came with my g/f's inspiron 6000 on my old gateway MX7515. Everything worked perfectly, and it ran great, but it did request an Activation key. I ran it like that for a couple days, and then just installed home edition.