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Don Newton
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January 13th, 2006 12:00
XP Reinstallation
I've got a Dimension 4600 that was built in 2003. I have come to the point where I need to reinstall XP but I can't find the original disk that came with the computer. I'm under a severe time constraint to get this done, so I don't have time to deal with Dell and get an XP disk.
Can I buy and install a regular retail nonbranded copy of XP with this computer?
540
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Posted January 13th, 2006 14:00
though, shipping time from dell takes 2-3 business days. So I'm not sure what is more important to you. Having the CD now and spending the cash on purchasing a copy at a store OR not spending and waiting 2-3 days.540
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Posted January 13th, 2006 14:00
yes you can use a microsoft retail version.. it will just ask you for the product key during the install, which sould be provided with what you purchased540
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Posted January 13th, 2006 14:00
By non-branded, I meant did it have to be the Dell version, or could I just use the Microsoft retail version.540
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Posted January 13th, 2006 15:00
No, Dell will supply a CD for systems shipped after the Media Reduction Initiative was instituted. For older systems (such as the 2003 version discussed here) Dell will furnish replacements for missing/damaged CDs within 21 days of the system's invoice date.
540
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Posted January 13th, 2006 15:00
Actually, Dell will provide an XP CD for any machine that was purchased with Win XP Installed.540
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Posted January 13th, 2006 15:00
Don Newton,
A retail version will work fine and that is your only option. Dell will not provide an XP CD for a system purchased in 2003. The CD was supplied with systems made in that time frame.
540
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Posted January 13th, 2006 17:00
You shouldnt expect anything less. Glad you got them CDs.540
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Posted January 13th, 2006 17:00
Wow, I just got of the phone with Dell. It was a very positive experience, unlike the previous time that I needed them! They are not only going to send the XP disk, but the whole "media pack" of support disks as well, and I will have them by Monday.
I have to mention that I had the three year warranty, so I am still covered until June.
Thanks for the feedback.
SR45
2 Intern
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12138 Posts
540
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Posted January 13th, 2006 13:00
Best Buy or CompUSA that I trust, have the retial version of windows xp, and you will be just fine with those. I know you can get it for less elsewhere, but you never know what you get. Too bad you cannot find the CD's, and have to fork over more cash... Good luck
As far as non branded, its from Microsoft, and should be so labled. If not, which I have not seen before, than don't get it.... If that is what you mean by non branded.