i feel like reformatting my computer. the only problem is that the only XP cd i have is my Dell recovery one.
i was wondering if i can still use even though ive changed 90% of the hardware in my dell

yes you could probably still use it.  TylerG's dell came with a recovery cd and all it was, was a fresh install cd of windows xp.  i dont think it checks your hardware to let it install.  it is just a regular xp cd. 

It should work fine (Mine did).

ah wicked. what about using the same cd key which is on the side of the dell case (i replaced my case aswell )

Windows doesnt detect what case you have , just make sure you've still got the original key, or else .....

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Originally posted by Johny
Windows doesnt detect what case you have , just make sure you've still got the original key, or else .....

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nope, there is no other problems.

ok i reinstalled, but i cant activate windows. i type in the key given on the side of the case, but it says its an invalid product key

u have to ring Microsoft for a New Activation product Key which is free,, all you do is when they ask for the old key, tell them over the phone an they'l give you a new one to put in,  (  it is installed on 1 computer isnt it)

basically its a new hdd, because my original died on me. and im using the OEM key with the OEM installation. so just give microsoft a ring and everything should be ok
can i email them instead?

you can email Microsft , but i do not remeber the correct email address to do that, ( unless you find it )..yes just give them the old Prod key an they'll give you the New one over the phone,, it doesnt matter if its a New HDD or not, Microsoft stil requires you to enter in a New Key  you have 30 days to  activate it, but i know you can email them  i asked them awhile ago about it bt i didnt keep the address

just call 1-800-MICROSOFT  and then go through the operator stuff and then pick the right line you want and then talk to one of the employees and tell them your problem and yall can work it out.

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Originally posted by [MR
]just call 1-800-MICROSOFT

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quote:

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Originally posted by microsoft.com

To activate Windows XP over the telephone, you can simply call a toll-free* number displayed on your screen. A customer service representative will ask for the installation ID number displayed on the same screen, enter that number into a secure database, and return a confirmation ID to you. Once you have typed the confirmation ID, the activation process is complete.

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thanx
btw, do i have to wait till monday to ring them, seeing as its sunday today, they might be closed...
[edit] nevermind now, called them up. everything is hunkydory