Can it be any Windows XP CD or does it have to be new? I have a 2nd set of Windows XP that used to be on my older PC but it crashed and I threw the PC away?

It is possible to find the XP disc for your particular Dell system on ebay.  Does the old HDD work at all?  If it still has life but just had indications of going bad, then you could clone the drive to the new one.  

If I buy the XP disc on ebay, will it work or will it lock me out after so many days?  Will my current license be valid for that Windows XP software ?

If the XP CD edition is the same as yours (Home, Professional, Media Center) and you have a compatible product key, you can install (being careful not to activate), and then use the Microsoft product key utility to change the product key to the on your Dell's COA sticker.

I have a 2nd Windows XP Software CD that is not installed on any PC but I used to have it on my prior PC until it crashed. I then threw it away. Could I install that software on this PC?  

As long as it is a Dell Reinstallation CD/DVD it will unlock and activate if used in another Dell.

Windows XP Home

Windows XP Professional

Windows XP Media Centre Edition

Legally you can only use the same version of XP as that on your COA.

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