Using a used XP disc.

I recently recieved my new E1705. I've read and done what is suggested in the Optimize thread. I was too scared to reformat because I had never done it before (even though there is a step by step guide). My notebook didn't come with an XP cd but I was wondering if I could just use the XP cd that I got with desktop like 3 years ago? If not, is there anyway I can get rid of the Dell junkware off my notebook without reformating? Such as a downloadable program.

 

You can add/remove the programs manually, or you can just call Dell's Tech Support and request the XP disc. They will send it to you for free.

Most likely, you can't use your older disc esp. if it is an SP1 version because of some compatibility issues.

 

You should have Windows serial number on your laptop. If it's for the same version of Windows XP (ie Professional or Home) then there is a good chance that it will work.

If not, you should be able to use the serial number that came with the CD.

If you haven't re-installed XP many times on your desktop then you should have no problems with Windows Activation either.


Dell includes a lot of junk with their systems so reformat would be the ultimate solution.

 

I have an MSDNAA subscription, so I never got XP CD or XP Pro upgrade with my system.

As soon as I got the system I have installed XP Pro SP1 that I got via MSDNAA. Once installed I was able to install and get everything working except for the card reader. I had to install SP2 before the card reader would work.

So, you should have no major problems with an older CD. Just remember to install SP2 from windows update once your fresh windows install is working.



... or get a CD from Dell.

 

Thanks for the info. I wasn't sure. I've read things on Dell's forums as well as we've had users on here state that they had problems with using the older discs. When they tried format, they would always get BSOD with pci error and I read somewhere that it had to do with the Express Cards compatibility with SP1.

Personally, i would just request the disc from dell so you can save the trouble of having to update to SP 2 but that is just me.

 

I'm a computer tech and have encountered many different issues with non-dell XP CDs as well as older CDs

Dell makes each CD for that specific model (Noth PC but the general model i.e e1705, d820, etc.) I suggest just coughing up the 30$ or w/e dell charges and get a CD. It's worth it in the long run