Re-install XP...

S

Suds

New Member
I have just fitted a new hard drive in my laptop (the old one just stopped working) It is an identical replacement. Now I have just tried to install XP and it will not accept the product ID. I says "ID Invalid" I have checked the ID several times and am sure it is correct.

As the computer came pre loaded I did not have a XP disc with it so this is another disc from one of my desktops. This should not make any difference as I have reinstalled it before from this disk - but that was to the original drive.

Do I have to by a new copy of XP just because my hard drive went wrong? or is this a drawback with pre installed (OEM) software?
 
If you have an oem version of the os, you can only install that to the original pc(motherboard or hardware is tied to that product key) If you have a retail version then you can install it to other systems as long as you remove it from all others. Also, it sounds like you are using the key that came with the laptop but the CD from a different system. If thats the case, you can't mix keys with different versions of the OS. Each version(OEM, Upgrade, or full retail has it own type of product key) You can't use an OEM product key if you are using a full retail install cd.
 
when ever you get a new pc or laptop there is usally a program installed that will allow you to make a backup of the operating system if you didnt do that then you might have to buy a new xp disk or you could try getting in touch with the makers of the laptop.
 
Suds said:
I have just fitted a new hard drive in my laptop (the old one just stopped working) It is an identical replacement. Now I have just tried to install XP and it will not accept the product ID. I says "ID Invalid" I have checked the ID several times and am sure it is correct.

As the computer came pre loaded I did not have a XP disc with it so this is another disc from one of my desktops. This should not make any difference as I have reinstalled it before from this disk - but that was to the original drive.

Do I have to by a new copy of XP just because my hard drive went wrong? or is this a drawback with pre installed (OEM) software?
Click to expand...

I'll bet you're using a Restore disc instead of a full OS disc, either retail or OEM. A Restore disc needs to have all the original equipment parts installed in the PC, even down to the ID string within the BIOS. Chances are that you will need to buy a new Retail or OEM copy of XP.
 
I like overmasters comment and makes since. I believe there is some kind of check sum performed on the hardware. change a video card and reinstall windows you will likely be down. the key will not be accepted because its already registered. This post came up else where here i think. Ive had this problem and called microsoft. they turned off the key and gave me a new one on the fly over the phone. the problem was similar. its worth a try?
like mentioned above it may be as simple as calling the laptop manufacture and likely. make some calls 1st.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top