The 5205 experiment

About 6 months ago I wrote a bit about my favorite laptop, the 5205-S703. The one I own has virtually every component replaced at least once, but that is to be expected for being run 24/7 for over 5 years.

It is starting to feel its age though and I feel the need to upgrade. I know this was essentially the same model as the more powerful S705, and am tracking down some components to speed things up.

The current processor is 2.0 GHz. I know a 2.4 or a 2.5 should work. I also plan on maxing out the ram at 1GB (it’s at 768MB now). I may also try to replace the graphics card, but this will only work if it is a separate component, which I am not sure.

For communications, I will be adding a third antenna and an 802.11n miniPCI card. This would allow for a needed software upgrade.

I have XP Home running on it, but I really want XP Media Center. So my question is, can you Install Media Center using a not Media Center product key?

If not, does anyone have a scan of a defunct 5205-S705 case that I can use the product key for?

Thanks

 

1) A processor upgrade isn't going to help much, focus on more RAM and faster hard drives.
2) 1GB is the max? You sure?
3) You cannot use a non-MCE key to install MCE.
4) Additionally, no sharing of OEM keys...it is illegal.
5) Have you considered a fresh install of the OS? That does wonders some times.

 

This is why I requested the base of defunct S705... there would be no conflict as the origonal computer is no longer working.