Thinkpads Forum

I just bought a T61, pre-installed XP Pro from Amazon. No CD-install disk.


I know there's something about a recovery program, but if something goes wrong, can I use my CD-install from XP Home on my T61 instead of the Pro that's on the T61 now?

I no longer have the desktop I bought with it, but I have all the serial, license, etc. info on that Home edition.

Probably not.

Windows versions that come preinstalled with branded computers check the software license that's embedded in the computer's BIOS. If the embedded license is either absent or different from what Windows is expecting, then it will refuse to activate/validate, even if you enter the product key.

So, if your XP Home came from a Dell, HP, or any other brand, it will not activate on the Thinkpad.

Another issue is that the Windows installer disc may have custom drivers and software that's unique to the original PC, and may cause problems on the Thinkpad.

wow! This was a fast response. So, there's really no way for me to know is there, other than what you said. I have all the original drivers, SP2 and everything else, but I don't want to take a chance and install XP Home, if XP Pro is still working properly.

Once again, thanks a million.

@Ladywiz: You have a Private Message (PM) from me!

If this isn't solved already, let me know and I can help you get the disc/s you need, or better yet, a disc with all the updates and SATA integrated.