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Ladogaboy
10-08-2002, 01:08 AM
When you get a computer through Dell, does it come with an actual copy of the OS, or is it a proprietary version a la Compaq, HP, etc.?

Thanks.
ribitch
10-08-2002, 04:15 AM
dells come with a full install of windows, but it runs a check on the BIOS to tell if the board is from dell. If its not, you cannot install windows

win2k has a workaround, so i assume the workaround for win XP is available
spigidygak
10-08-2002, 10:04 AM
ehrm. . . I don't think that was answering his question at all :hmm: As far as I know they come with the disc. We have bought 3 dells waaaay back haven't for 3 or so years now and each one came with a disc. Had some friends who bought one a few months ago and it came with the disc.
Ladogaboy
10-08-2002, 11:16 AM
Well, ribitch might have been answering my question. The reason I ask is this: some of the Dell deals have been looking pretty good lately, and it would almost be cheaper to get the CPU and a few other things in a Dell package than to buy them separately. If they do come with a full-install Windows disk, I'd like to know that if I upgrade my system, will I still be able to us Windows install, or will it just be a waste of my money?

I know some systems come with "recovery disks" which aren't a true Win xx disks, they just happen to install an OS while they are reverting the system back to factory.
ribitch
10-08-2002, 11:37 AM
like i said, its a full install, but there is a bios check that keeps you from installing on a nondell motherboard. If you look on the net, you may find a workaround for the XP disc. The 2k disc required editting a file with a hex editor and reburning the cd. XP probably works the same way since its basically the same installer
Ladogaboy
10-08-2002, 11:48 AM
Thanks.

Arg, I hate that though. They make you buy a license that you are not able to use later... and they wonder why piracy runs rampant. :2far:
spigidygak
10-08-2002, 04:54 PM
Originally posted by Ladogaboy
Thanks.

Arg, I hate that though. They make you buy a license that you are not able to use later... and they wonder why piracy runs rampant. :2far:

Heh yeah, thats one good move apple made by offering the family pack license for a great price.