OEM Version Of Windows XP SP2?

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Level 1

6 points

OEM Version Of Windows XP SP2?

Hey Everyone,
I am planning on getting my first Macbook within the next two weeks, and I currently use a Dell Desktop. I just have a simple question. I have a few Windows programs that i'd still like to use. However, the only non-OEM version of Windows XP I own is a SP1 version. I was wondering if it was possible to use the CD that came with my Dell Desktop. It does not contain any specific drivers for the Dell, it is just a plain version of XP SP2, it says on the disk Dell, OEM, does not contain any drivers. I was wondering if this would work in bootcamp, or even if this is allowed? I hope so, because I didn't want to go out and get a copy of Vista. Also, is XP still available to buy? Also, does bootcamp work on an external HD?
I hope you can answer these few questions.
Thanks for any replies.

Windows XP

Posted on Feb 25, 2009 1:26 PM

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Answer 1

Fortuny

Level 7

21,461 points

Feb 25, 2009 8:28 PM in response to Confuzzeled

Hi,

1. OEM-versions, that are not manufacturer-branded usually work quite well with BootCamp.

2. Dell-branded versions (and HP, Compaq and the like) usually don't work with BootCamp, since these are mostly 'crippled' to only work with the computer they originally came with.
If it is legal to use such discs with BootCamp is beyond my knowledge.

3. For XP Sp1 CDs have a look here for slipstreaming the SP2: http://www.winsupersite.com/showcase/windowsxpsp2slipstream.asp

4. XP should still be avaiable, although Microsoft has abandoned sales last year.

5. BootCamp does not work on external HDs, since by Microsoft design XP and Vista themselves don't boot from external HDs.
For adventerous people however, there's this how-to: http://tubeshards.wordpress.com/2006/12/05/install-windows-to-a-macintosh-usb-dr ive/

Hope it helps

Stefan

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