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Dell won't boot without cd

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Name: sano
Date: June 2, 2009 at 03:40:02 Pacific
OS: Windows XP
CPU/Ram: 3.0ghz/512mb
Product: Dell / DIMENSION 8400
Subcategory: General
Comment:

Hi,

I inherit a Dell Dimension 8400 from a friend but it doesn't come with any recovery disc. I tried reformatting and install with my OEM disc with its cd key located at the side panel but to no avail. (It state something like invalid key...) I ended up using the cd key which came with the OEM disc. Is there a way to enter the PC's COA cd key?

Next, i notice after installation, it won't boot without my xp cd loaded into the DVD-ROM. Is there anyway i can boot without the cd?

Thanks in advance.



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Response Number 1
Name: grasshopper
Date: June 2, 2009 at 04:34:56 Pacific
Reply:

What version of XP are you trying to install? Home / Pro? Do you know what version was on originally?


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Response Number 2
Name: Jennifer SUMN
Date: June 2, 2009 at 05:41:55 Pacific
Reply:

Did you check the BIOS to make sure the HDD is selected as first boot device?

EEOC


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Response Number 3
Name: sano
Date: June 2, 2009 at 06:46:26 Pacific
Reply:

Hi,

No idea which version, but both the original(According to the COA sticker) and recently installed are windos xp pro.

Next, i did set the 1st boot device as SATA hdd and 2nd boot device as cd/dvdrom.


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Response Number 4
Name: sano
Date: June 2, 2009 at 06:58:09 Pacific
Reply:

BTW, i do get this "Strike F1 to retry boot, F2 for set up utility" message if i didn't insert the windows cd.

Found out it seem to only happen to Dell computer.....

http://forums.cnet.com/5208-6122_10...

http://en.community.dell.com/forums...

Anyone?


0

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