XP install error (Unable to retrieve Product Identifacation)

Question

My hard drive recently crashed and I purchased another one. I installed the drive and started to install windows. It got to the point where it restarts the computer and then continues the installation. A minute into it an error message box comes up saying:

An error has occured that prevents Setup from continuing

Setup was unable to retrieve the Product Identification of the system you are installing. The Windows XP media may be damaged

Please contact Product Support

Does this mean the product key for win xp or something for my dell computer? I was never prompted to enter my XP CD key (which is on a sticker on my computer) so I am stumped. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Jamie

Dell 4500s owner

JRosenfeld · Answer

The Dell OEM XP disk includes a key that Dell uses to install (different from the one on your PC), which is why you were not asked to fill it in; so presumably that part of the CD was unreadable (hence the message). Check the CD carefully for marks; if no scratches are apparent, see if gently cleaning it helps.

Xavier_Garrak · Answer

There were a few small scratches on the CD which is funny considering I never took it out of the package till just now. So am I out of luck and should just buy a new copy of XP or should I try to DiskDoctor it or something?

simpswr · Answer

You might also try cleaning your CD-ROM . . sometimes a dirty head can cause copy errors.

That is an unusual error message for a Dell . . the Dell installation disc is tied to the Dell BIOS versus the specific COA . If you have another Dell Installation disc or have a friend with one, you could try that.

wrs

Message Edited by simpswr on 09-15-2004 08:32 AM

Windows General

XP install error (Unable to retrieve Product Identifacation)

Was this post helpful?