Can't activate Windows

[aphex187]

Ok, its a long story but here goes.

T41 - 2379-DJU

PC was running slow so I figured I'd back everything up and reinstall Windows. Usually I click the 'Access IBM' button and restore windows back to the original configuration. This time I tried it gave me an error of some kind (something about PC-DOS not loading a file IIRC). I don't have the IBM recovery disks but I've got a bunch of Windows XP disks around the house. I throw in a original WinXP SP1 disk in (upgrade version) and begin to install. During install it asks to see a previous version so I tossed in a HP restore disk and it took it. It also asked me to input a COA Product Key and I put the code in on the flipside of my ThinkPad. Windows installed just fine but whenever I attempt to activate windows it tells me I have an incorrect product key (which is strange because it took it earlier).

Is this because the version of Windows installed thinks it needs to look for a Product key that is specific to UPGRADE or is it because I used the HP disk to verify windows?

When I look under MY COMPUTER i do see the key of xxxxx-OEM-xxxxxxx-xxxxx which would lead me to believe that Windows is aware that I entered they key on the bottom of my laptop.

Is there anything I can do to proceed and activate Windows or am I left having to order the recovery disks from IBM?

Thank you in advance.

[JHEM]

You used a retail version of XP to install but entered an OEM product key, hence the problem.

Call MS and explain what you're attempting to do, they'll activate it for you.

Regards,

James

[aphex187]

Thanks - I figured they would understand since I do have a legit product key for XP.

In the mean time i had made a backup with Acronis TrueImage and have restored back to my previous state from that. I have to say that the TrueImage software is awesome, brought me right back in about an hour.

Now I have to decide however to a) redo what I did and then call microsoft b) get the real recovery disks from IBM or c) see if I can slipstream/modify another manufacturers WinXP disk (HP) to work for my ThinkPad so that I don't have to do either of the above when I install XP.

Thanks again, James!

[JHEM]

Jeremy,

Read ALL of this!

You should be able to get an installable XP CD out of the two you have that won't ask to be activated.

Please update your profile with your location!

Regards,

James