Contact Dell, and request a Dell reinstallation CD. That is the only alternative, short of buying a retail version. (To my knowledge, lol)

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msil217 wrote:
Contact Dell, and request a Dell reinstallation CD. That is the only alternative, short of buying a retail version. (To my knowledge, lol)

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Thanks. I looked at the original invoice - I ordered it for him - and I see it mentions 'Image Restore Utility', which I need to investigate further...but...I'd still like a copy of the install CD. Yep..guess it's a call to Dell req'd.

Thanks again.

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@GreyMack wrote:

The image restore utility refers to an image of the original system partition stored on a hidden 3-4GB partition which can be used to restore the system (F11 at boot-up brings up the option?), but it's no substitute for a reinstall CD.

GM

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Thanks GM. I d/loaded the manual and read about how 'Image Restore' works, and I agree entirely, it's NO substitute for a 'CD'.   'Sod's Law' says that the files in that hidden partition will get corrupted or something, and then that leaves no way of re-installing!!!

Just emailed Dell Support asking for one. Bit mean of them not to supply in the first place, as they've only saved the cost of the CD media after all!! I'd happily paid the 0.0000???? of a penny cost for supplying that.

Can anyone advise when running the 'Symantec Image Restore' utility on an 'Inspiron', whether you are given an option to create a bootable (XP Home) installation CD?

It's not my p.c., so can't try for myself.  If not, can anyone advise on how to easily copy (burn) the install files that are held in the hidden directory.  I've had a look at the 'tech' papers in Dell support section, but they just seem to talk about restoring 'XP' from the files held on the 'HD'. What happens if these files are corrupted :smileysurprised: 

I'd be much happier if I had a copy of 'XP Home' on CD

Juste emailed Dell requesting a disc......so keeping fingers crossed :smileywink:

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@GKButler wrote:

Can anyone advise when running the 'Symantec Image Restore' utility on an 'Inspiron', whether you are given an option to create a bootable (XP Home) installation CD?

It's not my p.c., so can't try for myself.  If not, can anyone advise on how to easily copy (burn) the install files that are held in the hidden directory.  I've had a look at the 'tech' papers in Dell support section, but they just seem to talk about restoring 'XP' from the files held on the 'HD'. What happens if these files are corrupted :smileysurprised: 

I'd be much happier if I had a copy of 'XP Home' on CD

No, you are not given any options except to restore the computer.  You cannot copy the files.

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GKButler wrote:

Can anyone advise when running the 'Symantec Image Restore' utility on an 'Inspiron', whether you are given an option to create a bootable (XP Home) installation CD?

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rickmktg wrote:

No, you are not given any options except to restore the computer.  You cannot copy the files.

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Thanks Rick.  Hope Dell come up with the goods :smileywink:.  I have paid for it, after all!

Cheers