I am trying to make a clean install of XP pro which was on my computer. I have the original repair CD which came with the computer when new, and its 25 digit product code. By chance I also ran BeLarc Advisor to list all the software and hardware on my machine. During installation I made a new partition and reformatted the drive and all proceeded until about 39 mins from end when it asked for 25 digit product key. Neither the one stuck to the top of the computer or the one extracted by BeLarc Advisor are accepted as Valid. After hours of time I noted that despite both Belarc Advisor and the sticker on the computer saying it was XP Pro that was installed, I noticed that the "restore" CD states it is "home edition"! Evesham are now out of business, so no luck there and MS say "not our problem" it is Evesham's problem. Any ideas where I go from here? Would a copy of XP pro from a friend work with one of my product numbers? All help gratefully received

You need the same type (DSP/retail) and flavor (XP home/pro) and upgrade disks won't work either. What is the difference between OEM and DSP software? The software in both OEM versions and DSP versions is the same. OEM software normally has the hardware manufacturer’s name, such as Dell or Sony, printed on the manual and license. DSP software, however, has NO manufacturer’s name stamped on the manual or printed on the license. DSP versions usually just say “OEM.” Basically, DSP is a more generic packaging of an OEM product that is sold to smaller system builders who do not qualify for larger volume discounts and custom printing on their software. OEM software is what you asked about is designed to run on a specific range of hardware. This is by Microsoft design. Therefore, OEM versions of Windows won't usually work on other hardware.

Search your XP disc for a file named "unattend.txt"...it will be in the I386 folder. The last line of that file should have a generic product key. Use that key to install XP, then change it to a legit key afterwards. "If my answers frighten you then you should cease asking scary questions" - Jules Winnfield (Samuel L. Jackson) in Pulp Fiction

jam, thanks for your insight, that is good to know! Some HELP in posting on Computing.net plus free progs and instructions Cheers

Jam. Private message.

No joy. Have found the file (using another computer) and correctly copied 25 digit code but still says invalid code during install still waiting for friend to send me a copy of his XP pro to try

I believe Evesham used a Hidden Partition in conjunction with the Repair CD, unfortunately you appear to have wiped the Hard Drive. It is possible that the Key Code is the CoA Code stuck on side of the PC Case and a BIOS LOCK Code is used see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/System...