Installing XP on different machines

[Gary_B]

Is it possible to install XP that I got with my HP notebook, on a machine that isn't HP? The reason I ask is I have just aquired a PC, but it boots up with the Blue Screen of Death. So Im looking to wipe the fucker and install XP on it, my only problem being is that the install disk wasnt meant for this machine.

The reason for the BSOD is not a hardware problem before anyone asks, it has a very nasty computer cold.

Cheers,

Gary

 

[Gary_B]

bump, this is quite urgent.

 

[b3nje]

Yes you can - you shouldn't really - but you can.

Just lie to microsoft when you probably have to ring to activate unless it does it over the phone

 

[Gary_B]

Thanks, thats all I needed

 

[GordonD]

Its not legal to install a copy of XP supplied with a PC onto any other PC. Its illegal whether the other PC is a HP or not.

There are three sort of copies of Windows XP:
1. OEM copies sold with brand name PCs,
2. OEM copies sold with or for "white box" PCs, and
3. full price versions.

Full price versions can be installed on anything, and it isd possible and legal to move them to a different PC to the one they were originally installed on.

OEM white box copies can not legally be transferred, but there's nothing to stop you doing it. Except persuading Microsoft that what you've done is kosher/halal when you try to re-activate it on a different PC to what it was originally activated on. That may not be a problem if enough time has passed since the original activation.

HP would have supplied an OEM branded copy with its PC. It is quite possible that it would have set up its install CD so it won't install on any other brand of PC. Don't be surprised if it doesn't work. What they do is check the BIOS on the PC to see if its the right brand. If you're lucky the PC you want to install XP on has the right BIOS because HP buys some of its hardware in from other companies. But its also possible its not the same brand.

 

[b3nje]

Yes you can - you shouldn't really - but you can.