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July 29th, 2014 10:00
Computer "Factory Restore or Recovery Disks"
I have 2 Dell computers, 1 desktop and 1 laptop with the system, application and driver disks. Problem - They are mixed up and I don't know what goes with each computer. Is there a way to identify which disks go with what computer? Is there a code or identification number on the disks? If I could get the right disks for my Inspiron 1501 it would solve both.
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Mary G
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July 29th, 2014 10:00
We need to know what operating systems as well as both models. Are you asking about reinstalling windows or what? Old computers like the Inspiron 1501 would use the same operating system disks as other computers with the exact same operating system so it doesn't matter which disk you use. XP came in diff versions--home, pro, media center etc. and XP disks are interchangeable. The reinstall disk should say what version. The drivers disk is not really needed. Just go online to Dell Support and get the right drivers for the hardware listed in the Device Manager on each computer.
Before doing anything like reinstalling windows, run the diagnostics and the extended hard drive tests to make sure the hard drive has not failed. No use reinstalling windows on a failing drive.
Philip_Yip
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July 29th, 2014 12:00
Windows 7 isn't officially supported on most Dimension Desktops and isn't officially supported on the Inspiron 1501.
I assume you have installed a retail license on the 1501. Use the updated drivers mentioned here:
sonofjesse777
2 Posts
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July 29th, 2014 12:00
Thanks Mary,
Here is the real problem. My laptop in an Inspiron 1501. I have done a fresh installed of Windows 7. I do this about once a year. Then I went to Dell's website (as always) to get the drivers and applications to finish the job. At there websight I put in the tag number for my laptop - 21C80D1. Then downloaded the drivers they recomend. Problem the VGA driver doesn't work. I don't care what I do it leaves the screen too big. In the display section I have the Smaller button checked and the resolution is set to 1024 X 768 "smallest"
Dell says that the VGA is a Standard Graphics Adapter. I, as you can tell, didn't save anything from the last install. I think it is an ATI of sorts? No help there either. So I thought I would go the round about way to solve the problem by re-enstalling with the disks. Trouble is, since I wrote for help, and you were answering me, I went ahead and used the disks I had ant it turns out they are all for a Dimension.
All i need is the VGA adapter drivers for the thing. That's all. I just can't seem to get the help that is why I used this avenue.