The Key on the machine should work fine . . it is likely you have mistaken an 8 for a B . . a 0 for a O or something like that . . I use a magnifying glass when trying to read those smell characters

edit: . . if you do have to call, it takes only a few minutes . . I have had to do it a few times and it was painless.

wrs

Message Edited by simpswr on 09-07-2005 03:15 PM

I wish it was that. This is more involved...

FWIW . . I have installed a Dell SP2 disc on  over 50 Dells using the original COA on the side of the tower or bottom of the notebook and never had a problem with the installation or activation . . did have to call M/S a few times, but it was a painless procedure.  The statement that the original COA will not work on a SP2 instalation is just not true

Did you use the Dell cd to make the slipstream?

wrs

 

Message Edited by mvftw on 09-08-2005 12:01 PM

mvtw,

I suspect that the slipstreamed CD you created is corrupted somehow. You have a copy of Windows XP which has a license, the number of which is on the sticker on your computer's chassis. SP1 and SP2 are nothing more than huge comprehensive Critical Updates, and updates are not licensed. If you are able to install XP SP1 from the CD without a problem and subsequently install SP2 this further points to a problem with the slipstreamed CD.

Dell's information in this regard is totally incorrect and Microsoft will not issue you a new license number. The phone calls to which simpswr refers were for activation of an installation, not issuing of a new license for Windows XP.

Be sure it is an OEM Version . . a retail version ( upgrade or full ) will not accept the COA on your Dell . .

If you have not found it already Autostreamer is a dandy little program that significantly simplyfies the slipstreaming process.

Best wishes . . wrs

 

"The phone calls to which simpswr refers were for activation of an installation, not issuing of a new license for Windows XP"

Correct . . thanks for the clarification . . wrs