i purchased an IBM Aptiva 5 years ago and back then it was set with windows 98. i just rebooted my computer for the first time today and apparently you need the code for the windows 98 installation. i no longer have the code. but if you don't install windows 98, it won't load your other settings. i don't even want windows 98. is there a universal code? and is it possible to install a different windows in ms-dos mode? PLEASE HELP! anyone who has an aptiva or know how to fix this problem.

I can't think of any reason why it would be asking for a 98 code (product key?) Try this. Startup the computer. Before the OS starts to load, start tapping the F8 key. A menu should come up. Choose 'command prompt only'. At the c:\> prompt type: scanreg/restore and enter. Choose a registry to restore with a date that precedes the message. Then see if it restarts normally. If it does you may want to run a virus check and see if some bug is causing that message.

windows xp should load okay, and install all drivers

if you realy need a code you can write or call microsoft and explain the situation and they may send you one

If you haven't formatted you can get the `Product Key', which I assume you mean. The Product key is in the Registry. You can create a text file of the Registry in Dos. To do this, type the following: c:\windows\regedit /e c:\filename.txt The file will be too large for a floppy, so you will have to put it on the hard drive. Use 'edit' to open it and then search for ProductKey (one word) and you should see the key following it.

I've got a 5 year old IBM Aptiva E2N. I run Windows 98 the original that came with the system. What is it you need? I reformat it alot I use it for all my tech/ troubleshooting, drive testing and operating systems. Works great & Reliable. :) I've put Windows 2000 on it and Windows 98SE, both no problems. Used it dual boot Win98 & 2000. let me know if I can help. I reacently reworked another PC it would not accept any other Windows Product Keycode ..only the one originally installed (I assume) lucky it was pasted to the side pannel of the case. Weird huh?

im trying to fix a IBM Aptiva for a friend its a Pentium MMX Prossecer speed 200 hz 64 Ram ccache 256 My problem is that when you try to start up it goes to a screen thats is, POST STARTUP ERRORS: an the it says, 1752 Configuraton change has occured. when I try to load factory settings it wont do anything it will not leave this screen I am totally stump if any one can help please e mail me.. Please put (IBM PC)in the RE: line Thanks, Shelly