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  • #2271680

    New OS With New Motherboard?

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    by mraftice ·

    Am I correct that if you replace the motherboard on a machine that has a legally licensed copy of Windows XP that you have to buy another license because Microsoft considers it a “New Machine?”

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    Replies
    • #2593298

      Clarifications

      by mraftice ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      Clarifications

    • #2593294

      Technically NOT

      by midnightstorm ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      Actually Microsoft licenses are that if you bought XP and have it installed on Machine A and then you go and by a Machine B and install on that one then its illegal. However if you are just replacing hardware in Machine A and then it is fine as you will just be reinstalling the OS. Its not deemed as “a new machine”.

    • #2593191

      Re: New OS With New Motherboard?

      by Anonymous ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      If you have replaced the motherboard then all you have to do is boot into “safe mode” and delete any software relating to your “old” motherboard and then reboot, load on your new motherboard drivers and if asked about re-activation of Microsoft just follow the on board questions. And No you do not have to buy another license. (Unless you are selling your computer with the Os.).

    • #2593171

      Not sure I like the previous 2 answers

      by langlier ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      Is the motherboard the same as the previous or an upgrade? Was this a manufactured machine or custom built? What version of Windows XP is it (More looking for Upgrade, Retail, or OEM)?

      Most cases you can transfer the lic over to the new motherboard but certain OEM versions licensed to a manufacturer are nontransferable to non-replacement hardware.

      Hope that helps.

    • #2603666

      Rules are different for Retail and OEM versions

      by robpatten ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      If you have a Retail copy of Windows XP then I *think* you can move this between computers, so long as it is only installed on any one computer at a time. Certainly it should be fine from a licensing point of view on the same machine no matter what parts are replaced. Of course, you may be prompted to re-activate, and in the case of a motherboard change sometimes you need to re-install Windows XP completely.

      If it is an OEM copy of Windows XP, which typically would be bundled with a new computer, or sold with specific items of computer hardware, the licensing is less flexible. The license cannot be transferred to another computer. Specifically relating to a motherboard replacement, there are two different scenarios. If you are changing the motherboard because the original one failed, Microsoft accept this is a repair and therefore a legitimate hardware change and your license is still valid (re-activation will be required of course). If however the motherboard change is because you are performing an upgrade, Microsoft take the view that you are deliberately changing the machine and consider the license non-transferrable to the new hardware.

      If the computer cannot be repaired an OEM license effectively dies with the machine.

      Being realistic, I cannot see how anybody could prove that you changed your motherboard out of choice rather than necessity. It would be your word against theirs, and I’m sure many people play the system a bit and ‘bend’ the rules.

      You could compare it to drinking four pints and then driving home. Just because you didn’t wrap your car round a tree or kill anyone, and didn’t see any police on the road, doesn’t mean what you did was legal… but nobody found out and you got away with it. A bit of an extreme comparison I know but you get the idea!

      • #2603647

        My reason for leaving MS Windows

        by groenem9 ·

        In reply to Rules are different for Retail and OEM versions

        This is one of the main reasons way I am leaving Microsoft Windows and converting to Linux. You can get Linux for free and don’t have to worry about licensing issues when changing motherboards, etc.

        • #2603637

          New Motherboard or New Machine?

          by ldtaylor ·

          In reply to My reason for leaving MS Windows

          When my WIN98SE motherboard failed a new motherboard and processor were the only fixes. Both were so far removed from the old MB that I had to buy new memory as well. That ws the only option for repair, a repair/replacement covered by my credit card extended warranty. Reinstalling WIN98SE was no sweat-no activation needed.

          I am still fearful of MS if my present MB (heading on 4 yrs) should go. The MB is no longer available. Any replacement would be a very obvious upgrade including memory and CPU.

          Has any one tested MS on this? I have XP PRO, an OS that MS would like to dump. Might the scenerio I suggest be a good way for MS to sell more VISTA?

          L D Taylor

        • #2603630

          This is a ‘forced upgrade’

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to New Motherboard or New Machine?

          If you replaced it with the same make and model of motherboard there would be no issue as Windows would just carry on working as the hardware is the same.

          However as you rightly point out, if a motherboard dies 4 years on (not wishing it on you!) it is very unlikely that same model will be available. In fact chances are you would struggle to get *any* motherboard that was compatible with your CPU and memory.

          So then you go through the process of changing the guts of the machine. The difference is here you are forced to upgrade because your motherboard has failed. You have not chosen to upgrade because you fancied a new motherboard with new features.

          Nobody would reasonably expect you to scour eBay for weeks looking for a motherboard of the same era as your original. Sure, you may have to re-install Windows XP when you get that new board, CPU, memory, etc in, and chances are the hardware will be so different that it will not automatically re-activate and you will have to phone up for an activation code. One of the questions this automated process asks is ‘Have you changed your motherboard?’ and if you say yes, you then get a choice of ‘Was this to replace a faulty motherboard, or for another reason?’ – I wouldn’t lose any sleep.

          Another option of course is that after four years the chances are there is a newer version of Windows out. If you’re the kind of person who likes to upgrade then purchasing a new motherboard would give you the ideal excuse to legitimately purchase a shiny new OEM copy of Windows Vista.

          I’m not saying you *should* upgrade to Vista if you get a new motherboard, don’t get me wrong. I’m just saying that some people would. I have no interest in starting a ‘I don’t like Vista’ or ‘MS are rubbish, get Linux’ debate!

        • #2603379

          OEM or Retail

          by cywelchjr ·

          In reply to New Motherboard or New Machine?

          If your copy of XP is retail, then you can certainly reactivate that copy on the replacement motherboard, just as you could if you wiped the old computer and built a new one to replace it. If it’s OEM, as I understand it, only a direct replacement motherboard can be re-activated, as it actually is the same computer.

        • #2579858

          OEM or Retail… paid for either way

          by jacdeb6009 ·

          In reply to OEM or Retail

          I don’t see the difference. Whether you bought XP out of the box or as an OEM copy together with a machines, you paid for it either way, fair and square. If you trash the machine then it should be legit to re-install XP on a new machine / rebuilt machine either way.

        • #2596777

          Read the EULA

          by thechas ·

          In reply to OEM or Retail… paid for either way

          I have not read over the Microsoft OEM EULA for a while.

          However, the last time I did, for the OEM version you are limited to installing the OS “ONLY” on the original computer.

          Yes, repairs are allowed. However, an entire new system is NOT a repair.

          Remember, by the terms of the EULA, Microsoft only allows you to use the software. They retain FULL ownership of the software. As such, you cannot do what you please with it.

          If you want an operating system that you can install on multiple machines with no issues, then go open source.

          Chas

        • #2596684

          Thank You!

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to Read the EULA

          I am so glad that somebody has finally made this point.

          Buying software is not like buying a tin of beans. Once you get your beans you can put them on toast, eat them all yourself, share them with the family, or even fill a bath with them (as was once popular for various charity events).

          Heinz won’t come round because two people are sharing one tin of beans.

          The difference is you are buying a product. You can then (so long as you act within the law of course) do what you like with it.

          With software you never own the product. You are just granted a license to use it. That license forms a contract and if breached will become void.

        • #2603906

          The difference is the price

          by rickaaa12 ·

          In reply to OEM or Retail… paid for either way

          The OEM version costs about half the price of the full retail version. That is supposedly the reason for the extra restrictions on the OEM versions.

          Rick

        • #2587819

          I [u]SECOND[/u] that! B-) n/t

          by btljooz ·

          In reply to My reason for leaving MS Windows

          n/t

      • #2603596

        Very old motherboard failure

        by byu1980 ·

        In reply to Rules are different for Retail and OEM versions

        My parents’ 1999-vintage ASUS motherboard (PIII, 450 MHz CPU) failed while I was visiting. The required upgrade was a new Intel motherboard (very basic), CPU (P4, 3.2 GHz), memory & power supply. The technician couldn’t get his Windows XP Home disks to install using our product key, but succeeded with our original XP Home disk. He downloaded all updates without having to reactivate the license. Subsequent updates have only required us to go through the genuine validation routine.

      • #2587657

        purchase bios upgrade on pc that has oem xp

        by pbug56 ·

        In reply to Rules are different for Retail and OEM versions

        I have an HP that came with preactivated (OEM) XP Pro. I bought a bios upgrade. Boot up, log in, and Windows says I’m not activated. It looks for something in the bios that the purchased upgrade bios does not have. I either back out the new bios, or I do a full install with a new copy of XP Pro? That makes absolutely no sense to me.

        • #2587594

          You *purchased* a BIOS update?

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to purchase bios upgrade on pc that has oem xp

          Most motherboard manufacturers provide BIOS updates free of charge on the support section of their web sites, I have never encountered a situation where you have had to pay for a BIOS update.

          I sure hope it was worth the money, did it fix the issues you were experiencing that made you go out and buy this update?

          Just because you cannot see any difference in the menu structure of the BIOS does not mean that nothing has changed.

          Have you actually tried to re-activate Windows when you were prompted to? Now that it has de-activated itself even if you restored the previous BIOS (assuming you kept a backup of the original flash image before upgrading) Windows will remain in an unactivated state, so either way you will need to re-activate. May as well keep the new BIOS you paid for…

        • #2579873

          purchased bios upgrade

          by pbug56 ·

          In reply to You *purchased* a BIOS update?

          HP never issued upgrades for this bios, neither did Phoenix. The bios makers license a 3rd party to do upgrades. I bought one, which fixes power management problems, allows hyperthread to work, etc. Very nice bios, many xp and vista enhancements. Booted, logged in, got the wizard. Called MS with the number given, they told me to call HP (waste of time). Backed out the upgrade (yes, it comes with software to backup the original), rebooted and logged in, and Windows was fine. As I understand it, Windows compares what it reads from the bios to something hidden on the hd. If they match, you are fine. If not, you get the wizard. Putting back the old bios made them match again.

        • #2596830

          You must be unlucky

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to purchased bios upgrade

          You must be unlucky, I have downloaded BIOS updates for HP & Compaq machines numerous times and never once have I had to buy one from a third party. Presumably if the update contains XP and Vista enhancements your computer is not all that old?

          If the BIOS update was released by a third party though, this would explain why you were prompted to re-activate. The BIOS string in your original BIOS would have shown HP as the manufacturer, and probably had the model number of the machine embedded into it.

          Your third party update will probably have the actual manufacturer of the board, or maybe the third party’s name in the manufacturer field rather than HP, so that would have triggered Windows to think it was a different motherboard.

          You clearly feel sure you would benefit from the BIOS update, or you would not have parted with any money for it I’m sure, so I would be inclined to re-update and then get back onto Microsoft. Be insistent that it is the same board, and if they try telling you to call HP again tell them you tried that already and got nowhere. Don’t be rude but make it clear that you believe they should re-activate your software if need be. It may have just been that last time you got hold of somebody who didn’t understand the situation.

          As far as I was aware, once Windows de-activated itself, it would not automatically remove the need for re-activation if the original ‘hardware’ (or in your case the BIOS firmware) was put back. But I have to say I could be wrong on this one as it is not something I have ever needed to do so far as I can remember.

          I hope this helps, don’t despair and be persistent with Microsoft. Make sure they understand you have not changed ANY hardware.

        • #2604353

          unlucky

          by pbug56 ·

          In reply to You must be unlucky

          I’d say you got most of it exactly right. And yes, the bios upgrade (2002 box, original bios did not support hyperthread, etc.) is a huge improvement for me over what HP provided (last updated before I bought the PC from HP).

          And as wierd as it sounds, XP does not seem to remember that I had the new bios temporarily.

          Is there any way I could talk to MS before going for the bios upgrade again to prearrange the re-activation?

        • #2604251

          Play the game their way then

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to unlucky

          Unfortunately there isn’t really a way to pre-prepare for re-activation, for example there is no way to “de-activate” Windows to effectively free up the license, Windows just detects hardware change and uses that as the trigger.

          You could leave it as is, which you don’t really want to do having got this far.

          The alternative, and what I would do, would be to re-flash the updated BIOS, try to re-activate when prompted, call the activation centre and when they ask if you have changed any hardware just tell them that your motherboard died and you have replaced it with a new one.

          This is the only compromise I can see. If their call centre staff are not even savvy enough to understand that a BIOS update is not a big deal, and Windows is assuming that your motherboard has changed, play along with the game their way.

          While it is a little white lie, I think it is a case of “needs must” in order to get the activation code. Remember you are not really doing anything wrong, you are not violating your license agreement because you have not physically changed the hardware.

          It is more a case of a communication barrier between you and the activation centre staff, and this way you are effectively ticking a box that they understand and can deal with.

          You may even find that if you call back and speak to somebody different, they will understand better and get you re-activated without a problem.

          Your choice, let us know how you get on.

        • #2599671

          I Started This Discussion- Report what happened

          by mraftice ·

          In reply to You *purchased* a BIOS update?

          I appreciate all of the information. Ultimately, I purchased a refurbished dual core Gateway with a 1GB of RAM from Tiger direct.com and that cured my need to buy a new overpriced motherboard for my old gateway machine. I was just curious as I was under the influence that I would also have to purchase a new copy of XP. It did figure into my decision but the cost of the motherboard $199-$327 for the correct replacement board, and the cost fo the new machine $350 were the deciding factors.
          This might be helpful to others however.
          I carefully selected the new machine in so that I was able to utilize the RAM from the old machine. I also bought an external case for the SATA Drive from the old machine and connected it to my new one. Thus, Instead of repairing the old machine for $200 I have a new machine with 2GB or RAM and two hard drives -200GB and 250GB. The total cost was $439 with shipping. Not too bad.

        • #2603334

          So did you buy a new copy of Windows XP?

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to I Started This Discussion- Report what happened

          I assume then that the refurbished machine come with a new copy of Windows XP?

          If you had repaired the old computer you could have kept the old Windows license, even if it was an OEM license, as you are repairing the computer.

          If you had just wanted to upgrade, as I’m sure you have gathered from all the posts here, you would technically have had to buy a new license. Yes you may be able to work round it and get it activated, but of course that is not the question you asked!

          Glad to hear you are all sorted, sounds like you made the sensible choice and got yourself a nicer machine than you ever would have done by repairing your old one.

        • #2587523

          It will be a string of characters in the bios

          by nentech ·

          In reply to purchase bios upgrade on pc that has oem xp

          I have had the same thing happen with a Dell

          The owner lost her dell supplied windows disk

          I had install windows from another disk
          I used the OEM code on the PC

          Then contacted Microsoft told them what had happened

          The result
          The helped me activate Windows

          You did nothing wrong
          The bios update was to fix your computer
          It?s the same thing as a faulty Motherboard

          As for HP they sold you the computer
          Hp can only refuse to cover the warranty

          Microsoft supplied the licence
          Anyway just ask MS if you don?t know what to do
          All they can say is no

        • #2596698

          did ask MS

          by pbug56 ·

          In reply to It will be a string of characters in the bios

          I did ask MS. They told me to talk to HP. But MS could have chosen to help.

        • #2596683

          Microsoft’s issue, not HP’s

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to did ask MS

          This is Microsoft’s issue, not HP’s.

          Get back onto Microsoft as I advised in a previous post.

          HP cannot issue you a new activation code, only Microsoft can do this.

          If as you say your BIOS update came from a third party it is unlikely that HP will be able to do much anyway.

        • #2596581

          Microsoft US does not Support OEM Versions

          by thechas ·

          In reply to Microsoft’s issue, not HP’s

          At least in the US, Microsoft provides NO support for any issue with an OEM version of Windows. Period! Unless, you opt to pay the per incident fee.

          Of course, HP is not going to provide a user with an activation code for a modified system either.

          If you want to modify a system with an OEM license for Windows, and the system no longer accepts the license key, your only option is to buy a retail license. Or, switch to Linux.

          Chas

        • #2596573

          Activation is *not* Product Support

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to Microsoft US does not Support OEM Versions

          OEM versions are supported by the PC manufacturer in the UK too and assume this is a global policy.

          However, obtaining an activation code is NOT product support.

          I feel the same ground is being covered over and over on this thread, so I will resist any temptation to repeat myself and the valid comments of others who have tried to clarify the situation.

          In supporting and repairing Windows XP since its release I have never had any issue in obtaining a new activation code from the activation centre, and I would say in excess of 90% of my experience has been with OEM copies originally supplied with a machine.

          Obtaining technical support from Microsoft is completely separate from requesting and obtaining a new activation code.

          If you try to try to turn an activation request into a support request then you will be referred to the manufacturer. That is why when speaking to the activation centre you need to stick to the facts and deal with the matter in hand, and not get distracted by making your request seem technical.

          Switch to Linux… I’m sure that advice will be of real help to the people with Windows licensing queries.

          I’m not knocking Linux and it certainly has its place, but that needs to be an informed choice made by the end user and not a kneejerk response from Microsoft bashers.

        • #2603789

          MS re OEM versions

          by pbug56 ·

          In reply to Microsoft US does not Support OEM Versions

          Up until about 2 years ago, as I understand it, one could have readily reactivated XP after just a bios change without even talking to a rep, but MS made a change to XP around March 2005 to prevent that. Beyond that, if MS wanted to charge a small nuisance fee to cover the cost of the call, I’d have no objection. Keep in mind the OS is still on the original PC, and all I changed this time around is the bios. It is absurd, IMHO, that I’d have to pay for a new license.

        • #2603774

          In response to rtroy56

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to Microsoft US does not Support OEM Versions

          I am not aware of any such change in 2005.

          I have regularly had to re-activate clients’ copies of Windows XP (usually OEM) after repairs, often motherboard changes, and was doing this on an almost daily basis until I changed jobs at the start of this year.

          Even recently I did a repair for a friend less than a month ago with a motherboard swap-out and had to re-activate their OEM copy of Windows XP. I had to call the activation centre but their automated telephone system asked me some questions and gave me an activation code without even having to speak to a human.

          I think you are getting too preoccupied in what you think is Microsoft’s policy, and enjoy complaining about the way you have been treated, without actually taking the advice of anyone on this thread.

          Please, for the sake of our collective sanity here, GET YOUR SOFTWARE RE-ACTIVATED!

          IT CAN BE DONE!

        • #2596678

          Something else you can try

          by nentech ·

          In reply to did ask MS

          The people who suppled you with the bios

          Ask them to add the string to the bios they suppled to you

          Or ask them to fix the bios that came with your motherboard

          The bios you got from them doesn?t work in your situation

        • #2604354

          ask bios maker to make bios work with current activation

          by pbug56 ·

          In reply to Something else you can try

          I did ask the bios maker if they could figure out what XP was looking for in the bios and do it themselves. They indicated that there were issues with copyrights, etc. along with possible technical problems were they to try to do that.

          What would be nice would be, since they are a big source of bios updates, if they would work out something with MS to make this easier.

        • #2604205

          Try the activation again

          by nentech ·

          In reply to ask bios maker to make bios work with current activation

          Update your bios

          Then contact Microsoft again

          Tell them you need to activate windows

          If they ask why

          Tell them the computer had to be repaired

          If they ask you why

          Just say something didn?t work properly and it had to be fixed

          Do not say any more than you have to

          That?s why you changed the bios
          It was because it didn?t do what it was suppose to do

    • #2603638

      Replacement Motherboard

      by nidge700 ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      I recently had to replace my motherboard and the
      main problem with Windows OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) editions is that you have to reinstall it from scratch. I did read on the net that some official from Microsoft told a reporter that you have to buy another edition of Windows if your operating system is an OEM version. Well I’d already reinstalled my Windows
      Pro. from the original CD that came with my computer. It was accepted as genuine at Microsoft when I updated it direct from Microsoft Downloads. So that Microsoft bloke was talking a load of twoddle.

      • #2603632

        Painless Motherboard Replacement

        by esshelton ·

        In reply to Replacement Motherboard

        I recently had to have the Motherboard on my three year old Dell Optiplex GX280 (small form factor machine)running XP Pro, replaced. Fortunately, my machine was still covered by Dell’s on-site service. The Technician replaced the motherboard and had the machine up and working all in under an hour. He never had to re-install the OS. It was a relatively painless and fast process.

        • #2603625

          Like for like

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to Painless Motherboard Replacement

          Chances are the Dell technician would have replaced the motherboard like for like with the same model.

          If he didn’t even have to install new drivers this would almost certainly be the case.

          A different matter when a home user comes to change his or her motherboard and cannot source the same model. Sometimes if the chipset on the board is similar to the old board it will work with no re-install required. I have known a deceased Intel board to be replaced with a new VIA board and Windows booted, went through the new hardware wizards and was fine. But you can’t rely on it always being the case and I personally would always be happier to do a clean install if the new board was vastly different to the old one.

      • #2603597

        Motherboard replacement and Microsoft

        by tony.cacciola ·

        In reply to Replacement Motherboard

        Recently I replaced the mother board in my kids PC. After deleting all the previous motherboard drivers, as I did a year ago with my own PC, and installing the new ones, I was not able to run XP properly. I spent about two hours with Microsoft dealing with the issue. It was finally corrected by Microsoft providing me with a new code key. I would say it depends how your PC and XP get along. I had no difficulty with one and had with the other.

    • #2603616

      Windows XP license. Microsoft hungup on me.

      by amvx86 ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      Microsoft states that “Only one copy can be utilized between machines.” I had called up, being the smarta!@$ that i am, and asked what if i buy 1 copy of microsoft windows XP / Vista and purchase two hard drives and install it on the single machine, just two times (as it being single license only) Their reply to this was to give me a dial tone. I think they need to refine how they word things. lol

      • #2603492

        In my experience…

        by eternal ·

        In reply to Windows XP license. Microsoft hungup on me.

        If it’s a direct replacement for a failed motherboard with an OEM or retail license, no need to buy a new license.

        If you bough say an IBM desktop with an OEM copy and are upgrading the motherboard/cpu/ram then technically.. yes need to.

    • #2603551

      No. As long as you have it installed on only ONE computer

      by seacarl ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      I’ve redone my system several times and even built a new compter. At least 3 times, when I installed XP, it wouldn’t let me activate it. There is a toll-free number you can call. They will ask you if this is the only computer you have this copy of XP on. If you anser YES, they will give you a number to allow you to activate it. The magic word here is that you have it installed on only ONE computer.

      • #2603484

        Correct

        by fixit ·

        In reply to No. As long as you have it installed on only ONE computer

        I have done this a bunch of times. I have a gaming machine I upgrade every 6 to 8 months and have to reinstall. Microsoft just wants to make sure that it is only on one machine at a time. I have the XPpro retail version though.

    • #2603501

      Just did it – no problem

      by dietmar jeske ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      I just had the motherboard on my Dell Inspiron 5160 replaced (overheating problem). Win/XP Pro SP2 restarted without any clue that anything had been done (i.e. did not even ask for re-activation), as expected, since CPU, Disk, etc. had not changed.

    • #2603476

      This will help

      by nentech ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      This is a link a document about Activation
      http://download.microsoft.com/download/2/1/6/21654b16-6c81-4d96-9390-5203cd43d07d/WPA_SP1_Market_Bulletin.doc

      This one is Q&A about software licences

      http://download.microsoft.com/download/4/e/3/4e3eace0-4c6d-4123-9d0c-c80436181742/OSLicQA.doc

      Hope this helps you

      Edited to remove all but the links

      Duh I should read them
      I was tired

    • #2603469

      It depends on how Windows XP was licensed.

      by pjboyles ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      If the system is an OEM (ie Dell, HP, etc) and you replaced it with a different motherboard, you will need to purchase a copy of Windows. These are licensed to the hardware and you must replace broken motherboards with a replacement of the same board.

      If this was a box copy you installed (full, oem, upgrade) and you replaced your motherboard on the system, you should be able to reactivate Windows XP from Microsoft. I usually do so over the Internet. Sometimes I had to call.

      Full copies can be moved to new machines.

      • #2587793

        I think this clarifies the OEM issue

        by paulankin ·

        In reply to It depends on how Windows XP was licensed.

        Statement from Microsoft Education Operating System Licensing Q&A

        http://download.microsoft.com/download/4/e/3/4e3eace0-4c6d-4123-9d0c-c80436181742/OSLicQA.doc

        Q. Rather than purchase completely new PCs, my organization performs in-place upgrades to the hardware on many of our computers. We often times only replace the motherboard, processor, and memory. Since the COA is still on the case and the OS is still installed on the hard drive, this computer is still licensed, right?

        ANSWER. Generally, you may upgrade or replace all of the hardware components on your computer and maintain the license for the original Microsoft OEM operating system software, with the exception of an upgrade or replacement of the motherboard. An upgrade of the motherboard is considered to result in a “new personal computer.” Microsoft OEM operating system software cannot be transferred from one computer to another. Therefore, if the motherboard is upgraded or replaced for reasons other than a defect then a new computer has been created, the original license expires, and a new full operating system license (not upgrade) is required. This is true even if the computer is covered under Software Assurance or other Volume License programs

    • #2603348

      You do NOT need to buy another license….

      by desktop veteran ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      The license of the operating system refers to the installion of the OS on the HD. Replacing hardware does not constitute an additional installation. Even if the HD had crashed and you had reinstall the OS from scratch, that still only counts as one installation of the operating system, and that is what you paid for. Once you install the OS on two different systems, then you have technically violated the license agreement.

      • #2587815

        However……

        by desktop veteran ·

        In reply to You do NOT need to buy another license….

        I should mention that Microsoft does not always follow a logical path (as if they ever have). And based on that thought, there may be a difference between OEM and PRO, and whether or not your working with a site license. I tend to forget about the licensing issues because I always work with site or volume licensing. The issue would be with the “activation” of the OS. I wouldn’t think you’d have to activate the OS by simply switching the motherboard, but leave it to MS to find a way to charge you twice for the same product.

        There ought to be a law against it! ;-0

      • #2587656

        bios replacement makes you buy a new license

        by pbug56 ·

        In reply to You do NOT need to buy another license….

        So why, if you upgrade the bios on an oem based xp installation (as on a HP box), do you have to then buy a new copy of XP?

        • #2587593

          You don’t need to!

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to bios replacement makes you buy a new license

          If the BIOS is significantly different from the older version, Windows XP may think that the motherboard has been changed and consider the change significant enough for re-activation to be required.

          Just because you are prompted to re-activate does not mean that your license is no longer valid. You should be able to successfully re-activate your copy of Windows XP, and if it won’t do it automatically you can call the toll free number provided to you on the activation wizard where you will be asked some standard questions and you will be given an activation code.

          It amazes me the number of people who have perfectly legitimate software who seem to be scared to use the ‘call the activation centre’ option and assume they are doomed!

        • #2580128

          So true

          by nentech ·

          In reply to You don’t need to!

          Why don?t they just ask Microsoft?

          What is Microsoft going to do?

          Say yes or no

          It?s that simple

          In my opinion if the PC is so slow its painful to use
          And the only fix is to replace he Motherboard
          Then that is a repair

          It wasn?t that slow when they paid for it so it must be faulty
          To bad for MS if it?s their service pack slowing it to a crawl

          There is also the case of a defective CPU
          To bad for MS if you cant find one to fit the Motherboard
          It has to be repaired and to do that the motherboard has to be replaced

          There are many reasons that a motherboard has to be replaced as part of a repair

          And like I said they can only say no

        • #2579879

          called activation center

          by pbug56 ·

          In reply to You don’t need to!

          When the activation wizard told me to call Microsoft, I did. They told me to call HP. HP charged me $50 and then told me they couldn’t do anything (I did eventually get the money back).

        • #2598860

          Never say never….

          by desktop veteran ·

          In reply to bios replacement makes you buy a new license

          I can honestly say that I have never, and I do mean never, had to reactivate an installation of XP after the replacement of a motherboard or upgrade of the BIOS.

          Our standard image, historically, has been created from an OEM installation of the XP (we have now started using UIU and it’s awesome). More to the point, we were victims of Dell’s involvement in the “buldging capacitor” incident, and out of literally hundreds of motherboard replacements and BIOS upgrades, I was not prompted once to reactivate Windows.

          Based on this, I am surprised by your problem. However, never say never. Here you are with this issue. I can’t help but wonder why we would have never seen this issue. Am I overlooking something rediculously simple that would answer this question?

        • #2600516

          oem bios preactivation – xp locked to bios

          by pbug56 ·

          In reply to Never say never….

          The XP docs one can find when one digs deep enough show that PC’s that come with xp preactivated have something hidden in the bios that identifies the bios to XP. Change the bios to one not coming from the pc builder and XP deactivates.

        • #2600473

          Ok you are unlucky

          by nentech ·

          In reply to oem bios preactivation – xp locked to bios

          Your bios is not everyone else?s bios that is your bad luck

          You own an HP computer that is your choice and in this case your bad luck

          How you dealt with Microsoft is also your choice and bad luck

          It appears you have a lot of bad luck
          Other people have not had the same problems as you

          Other people have been able to update their pc bios with no problems

          Other people own HP computers they have no problems

          So next time you buy a computer don?t buy hp or don?t upgrade the bios

          To continue to insist that a bios upgrade means you have to activate windows when other people keep telling you they have had no problem makes you look stupid

          You seem to be your own worst problem
          People have offered you help
          It didn?t work for you that is your bad luck

          So stop bugging us

        • #2600462

          We have no idea if he has tried any of our suggestions

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to Ok you are unlucky

          It would be nice if he let us know if he had tried any of our suggestions before posting back with bits and pieces of information.

          I don’t think rtroy56 is stupid, but I think he could have done a better job of supplying us with all the relevant facts at the beginning rather than have us all run round playing guessing games.

          As it is I think we have finally got to the bottom of it.

          What he may find is that when he tried to activate and his system says he is using an incorrect product key, the key shown on the activation screen does not correspond with the product key that is on the OEM sticker on the side of his case.

          This is because all the big manufacturers, HP, Dell etc, all release their systems with a “pre-activated” product key (the one that will be displayed on the activation screen). This basically allows them to create recovery CDs which do not require re-activation every time they are used.

          So long as the BIOS string matches what the software is expecting, no activation will be required. It would be sensible to assume that an HP pre-activated product key will only work on an HP branded BIOS. Otherwise there is nothing to stop people distributing HP (or Dell etc) installation/recovery CDs and getting an illegal pre-activated copy of XP on their Brand X box.

          When the activation screen prompts you, you should change the product key to the one that is on the OEM sticker. This is your individual product key, unique to your computer. Even with a motherboard change, or BIOS change, etc, you should be able to activate with this key even if it involves a call to the activation centre.

          I hope that makes sense.

        • #2601022

          My post gives him two choices

          by nentech ·

          In reply to We have no idea if he has tried any of our suggestions

          1. To give us more info
          2. Or solve the problem himself

          Some people do not listen

          Some people refuse to accept what they are told
          They then think they are being told lies

        • #2588854

          paying attention

          by pbug56 ·

          In reply to We have no idea if he has tried any of our suggestions

          Yes, I’ve paid a great deal of attention to everyone’s suggestions. And I’d note that your comments just now are right on the button, but; when I got the activation wizard after the bios upgrade, the product key displayed IS the one on the OEM sticker. That may be what confused Microsoft’s activation staff. Of course the non-HP bios did not match what the software was expecting. And the fact that the key displayed is that on the sticker but doesn’t work anymore is my problem.

          My apologies if I have not been clear on all the issues. I’ve never encountered this type of problem before and did not know what is relevent.

        • #2588773

          We all learn as we go along

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to We have no idea if he has tried any of our suggestions

          We all learn as we go along, I don’t think you ever stop learning especially where computers are concerned.

          rtroy56, it is clear you have been trying to solve the problem yourself and doing a fair bit of research into the cause of the problem. Hats off to you because it is more than a lot of people bother to do.

          As the discussion continues we all learn more and more about your situation and the possible causes of your problem.

          The only thing I find a bit frustrating is that when people make suggestions, you don’t always reply to say whether you then tried it or not, and what the result was.

          Getting back to the matter in hand I find it interesting that Windows is showing your individual product key rather than the generic pre-activated HP key.

          In theory this should make your case fairly straightforward, and you should be able to re-activate with that product key even after a full motherboard change. It will involve a call to the activation centre, and you may have to go along and play the game their way, telling them you have replaced the motherboard (as it was defective). Bending the truth a little but it is what they will want to hear in order to provide you with an activation code.

        • #2588861

          Excuse me?

          by pbug56 ·

          In reply to Ok you are unlucky

          I reported a technical issue here that affects OEM preactivated XP users who updated their BIOS. Yes, I’ve been looking for advice, and perhaps someone to talk to at Microsoft about this. But I’ve also been trying to educate people, as most posters here are trying to do even while getting help. Just in case you don’t understand, MS does document that for a preactivated XP, changing the BIOS leaves XP needing to be activated.

          I went into this quite ignorant on the subject. I’ve learned a lot, but what amazes me is how a few people seem to think that they are superior to everyone else here, that they somehow know better. Each of us hopefully has some knowledge to share here, but insulting each other is useless.

        • #2588761

          It gets frustrating when people don?t get back

          by nentech ·

          In reply to Excuse me?

          I was not trying to be rude
          I just wanted you to let us know how you got on
          You had posted many times in this discussion and appeared to be ignoring the suggestions given to you

          I suggest you do what RobPatten wrote

          Ring the activation line play dumb tell them your computer has been fixed
          Tell them you need to re activate windows
          Keep it simple and short
          Play dumb
          I don?t know is a good answer

          Microsoft do not deserve anything but simple answers
          Its their OEM scam that is the problem

          Good luck

        • #2588755

          You may find this interesting

          by nentech ·

          In reply to Excuse me?

          Not long ago I had a friend who had brought Windows XP professional

          They wanted me to install it on their new dell computer
          Which had come with an OEM Windows XP home installed

          I did that then activated it and showed them how register with Microsoft

          They then asked me to install the OEM version of Windows XP home on their old computer

          This was a dell that had come with an OEM version of Windows 98 second edition

          I checked the computer to see if the hardware would handle XP
          It checked ok

          This is the interesting part

          I told them I can try but I had doubts
          It worked and did not need to be activated

          Another thing I have found is this

          The activation code for OEM Windows XP classic still works if you install from a service pack 1 CD or a service pack 2 CD

          How do I know?

          I got sick of installing windows XP then installing the service packs
          So I tried the install CDs with the service pack included

          It worked and activated no problem

          Amazing what will work if you try it

    • #2587772

      No you don’t

      by arcov ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      You do not need a new license even if it is an OEM copy.
      Saying that I beleief there are restrictions on how many times you can re-install different versions of Windows (retail and OEM) which is odd as most of us would reinstall it often just to start with a ‘clean’ machine.
      My suggestion is to create a clean install and image the validated baseline and use that to rebuilt from.

      • #2580122

        The baseline

        by nentech ·

        In reply to No you don’t

        Is that straight after activation?
        Before you do anything more
        No driver installs etc

        Some people may not understand the meaning of the word baseline

      • #2599821

        Windows validates to the processor

        by puddytatz ·

        In reply to No you don’t

        If you are luck enough to have bought a MB that is compatible with your old processor you can remove the processor from the old MB and install it on the new MB. A little preplanning is the key. Research what MB’s are compatible with your current processor. Make sure that the processor is assigned to the same slot. You can find this information on most any MB suppliers web site. Be especially careful when removing and instaling processor. Make sure that all power is disconnected and also make sure not to bend the pins. Also make sure to use a good heat sink compound when reinstalling the processor. Good luck.

    • #2587715

      I’m Amazed!

      by marko – mct ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      The number of replies seemingly coming from seasoned IT professionals that are providing misleading at best and outright wrong answers at worst is amazing.

      A motherboard can be replaced if it is similar to the one that was there, so most warranty and repair situations will allow the old license to be re-used. This is because (likely) the CPU, RAM, Video, Sound, Network, Hard Disk and other major components will not change.

      Microsoft activation basic rule of thumb is: three major componet changes within a 90 day period will not require re-activation or a new license. Situations like replacing the video and sound card in one go would be fine. Adding a new hard disk to the mix *might* trigger activation. Adding a new CPU almost certainly will.

      A motherboard typically changes the BIOS, CPU, RAM and (likely) network card, sound chip and video subsystems. This constitutes a new computer and therefore requires a new license.

      The exception to the new license rule is if you have bought retail versions of OS products and retail versions of subsequent upgrades and do not use any of these more than one time on another device. If any OS product used at anytime was OEM, there is no change-the-motherboard-to-a-new-one path that allows you to re-use your OEM license (except the warranty situation already mentioned). This is almost always seen as a new PC and requires a new license.

      Check microsoft.com/licensing for even more detail.

      • #2587655

        bios upgrade is only one componenet

        by pbug56 ·

        In reply to I’m Amazed!

        So why does a bios upgrade require a new copy of XP?

        • #2580119

          It doesn?t

          by nentech ·

          In reply to bios upgrade is only one componenet

          You are not replacing the motherboard

          You are replacing a memory chip

          If you can change the system memory
          You can change the read only memory

          In other words it?s all memory
          What is in it is of little importance

          Also if the firmware it faulty it will have to be repaired
          One way is to replace the rom

          Flash rom is just one type of memory

      • #2587588

        Activation vs License

        by robpatten ·

        In reply to I’m Amazed!

        As far as I can tell there is nothing that stipulates that a failed motherboard needs to be under warranty or replaced with a similar motherboard.

        Microsoft stipulate that for an OEM license, a motherboard replacement counts as a new machine *unless* the replacement is because the original board was defective. There is no mention of the specification of the board needing to match the old one, or that it has to be replaced within one, two or three years of the original purchase date.

        However I think it is safe to assume that there is a general expectation that for most home users, if your motherboard fails four years down the line, you won’t be able to get a like for like replacement, and the cost of replacing the CPU, memory, possibly PSU makes the cost of a repair uneconomical compared to going out and purchasing a new computer. For people who maintain their own computers this is a different matter of course.

        There seems to be a general confusion on this thread that implies that Windows prompting you to re-activate means that your license ceases to be valid. This is not the case!

        Even if you have to call the activation centre you get asked a series of questions, one of which is ‘have you replaced your motherboard?’ and if you say yes, you are then asked if it is to replace a defective board, or for any other reason. If you are replacing a defective board, no matter how different the specification to the original, Microsoft will grant you an activation code. From an OEM licensing point of view, it does not matter if changing the board also forces you into changing the CPU and memory, not to mention the on-board devices such as audio, LAN and possibly video.

        You had to change the board because of a fault, not because you fancied an upgrade. That is the key difference between your OEM license still being valid, and needing to buy a new license.

        • #2579877

          upgraded bios, left motherboard alone

          by pbug56 ·

          In reply to Activation vs License

          I upgraded the bios, but the motherboard stayed the dame. But the MS reps didn’t care, they would only tell me to call HP.

        • #2579801

          HP must have seen you coming

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to upgraded bios, left motherboard alone

          I have called the activation centre dozens of times when reloading or repairing people’s machines.

          Only once was I told to speak to the PC manufacturer and this was because Windows had de-activated itself because a pirated CD key had been used to install the software, by whoever originally supplied the computer.

          I think you have to be careful when speaking to the activation centre that you just stick to the facts. They are not technical people, they are call centre staff, and if you start telling them about how a BIOS update has caused you problems they are going to think you have called them for technical support and will refer you back to HP (in your case).

          They don’t want to hear your tales of woe, they only want to know what you are calling for so they can enter it on their computer system and then generate you a new activation code. If you start going off on one you’re going to confuse them and the purpose of the call will be misunderstood.

          I am glad to hear you got your $50 back, but I don’t think I would have paid it to start with. It sounds like they saw you coming.

        • #2604352

          HP post warranty tech support, MS activation center

          by pbug56 ·

          In reply to HP must have seen you coming

          I told MS at the time that all I did was a bios upgrade, no other changes. All they would say is to call HP. HP really doesn’t seem to like doing tech support post warranty, but they took the $50, kept me on the phone for hours (they had no idea of what I was trying to do – something like tech support level .01). I had to contact HP’s corporate offices to get my money back.

        • #2604245

          Post warranty “support”

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to HP post warranty tech support, MS activation center

          It does annoy me that companies like HP can get away with charging you *before* you even get any advice.

          Sony are the same in the UK, you need to enter your credit card details before they will even pick up the phone to you.

          Much better customer service would be to speak to somebody first, see if they can help you, and fair enough if they can then be advised that you need to pay for the support. But to be made to pay and then be told they cannot help you leaves you having to chase them for a refund, which I am pleased to hear you did and with success.

          I suppose their stock answer would be “re-flash the official HP BIOS” either way. I just find it is sad these days that speaking to somebody in support is such a frustrating experience because they do not understand the problem.

        • #2598857

          HP issue?

          by desktop veteran ·

          In reply to Post warranty “support”

          Honestly, is it possible that this issue stems from the fact that this is an HP product?

          I’ve worked with Dell’s, IBM’s, and a multitude of other systems. NONE of them resulted in this issue.

          This has that faint smell of the “PackardHell” days.

        • #2598808

          In response to Desktop Veteran…

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to Post warranty “support”

          The issue is not that the product is made by HP.

          HP stopped releasing BIOS updates for the machine in question some years ago, the machine apparently was bought in 2002.

          The new updated BIOS that was purchased was produced by a third party company. Therefore it will not be “branded” as an HP BIOS and probably other BIOS strings such as the model number will be different to the more customised HP BIOS he had before.

          Like you, I have never had an issue in a BIOS update released by the PC manufacturer (or motherboard manufacturer) triggering a Windows re-activation, be it Dell, HP, Packard Bell, Sony, or any of the countless motherboard manufacturers I have encountered.

          He has effectively replaced a branded HP BIOS with a different Brand X BIOS, and Windows has detected the difference as a motherboard change.

          This in turn has triggered the need to re-activate, which in itself should not be a problem (but appears to be in this case, probably more due to bad luck and misunderstanding when calling the activation centre than any specific Microsoft policy).

        • #2598741

          Thanks Rob…

          by desktop veteran ·

          In reply to Post warranty “support”

          Thanks Rob for condensing that situation. I tried to read through most of it, but you summed it up very well.

          Interesting combination of circumstances and manufacturers (MS and HP). Or should I say, bad combination.

    • #2596556

      Not reallly

      by sir.ptl ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      I have built two computers in addition to the one my version of Win XP was originally installed on and haven’t had any problems with installation or registration on the new machines. The latest new new computer I built was completed just two weeks ago and is now up and running just fine.

      What I have encountered that I don’t like is that I have reinstalled Win XP so much that I now must register via phone, but then a lot of software companies are doing that.

    • #2604300

      New OS With New Motherboard

      by natomega ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      It appears that many people have jumped on this issue. However I have not read One relevant correct Answer. Question is can one replace a new Motherboard using same CPU/Disk on a new M/B – This has two answers.
      1) If New Motherboard has same chipset as Old M/B you “May Not” have any problems running XP.
      2) However if new M/B has a different chipset to Old M/B you are then required to re-install XP.
      I know this from practical experience, as I have performed Upgrades for countless clients.
      Tip: When you re-install XP and all other software, you can re-register with Microsoft using existing XP, but tell them you have upgraded your hardware.
      Hope this helps.

      • #2604293

        Your answer is not relevant

        by nentech ·

        In reply to New OS With New Motherboard

        The question asked was

        Am I correct that if you replace the motherboard on a machine that has a legally licensed copy of Windows XP that you have to buy another license because Microsoft considers it a “New Machine?”

        This is a legal issue
        It is not about chip sets

        Thank you for not answering the question

        • #2604285

          This is a legal issue?

          by freebird54 ·

          In reply to Your answer is not relevant

          Apparently it is – however has anyone even heard of it being tested in a court of law, anywhere in the world?

          It seems to me that people (sheeple?) are just taking the license to mean whatever it is that MS says it means. In the las EULA I read, there was disclamatory language noting that certain provisions were void where prohibited – and that voiding a given provision would not affect the remaining provisions. They would not DO this if their ‘ideal situation was not successfully overridden by local laws and statutes.

          Check the consumer protection laws of your jurisdiction before ASSuming that the relevant portion of the EULA pertains to YOUR situation.

          Another thing that amazes me is that every iteration of the licensing agreement limits the paying customer more and more – and nobody DOES anything about it. The current ridiculous provision is that you are not supposed to install certain (lower priced) versions of Vista on a virtual machine. By what ‘right’ do they claim to control the type of hardware that you choose to use the software on?

          I could go on – but my fingers would get tired 🙂

          Anyway – MS SHOULD re-activate for most REPAIR scenarios – and if they do not, ask for a refund – their software does not fulfill your needs if it won’t activate, and does not meet the minimum standard of merchantability…

          Enjoy!

        • #2604378

          Sorry my reply was not worded carefully enough

          by nentech ·

          In reply to This is a legal issue?

          The original post was about a legal issue

          mraftice wanted some one to confirm or expand on what he understood

          It is different for windows OEM licences and windows full licences

          Edit to add this

          Some of the replies in this discussion talk about how this has been tested or why it has not been to court

        • #2603860

          Your answer is not relevant

          by natomega ·

          In reply to Your answer is not relevant

          Please Consider this Question!
          Where does the licensed Operating System reside. On the Hard Disk Drive or on the Motherboard?
          Of course on the Hard Disk!
          Therefore if you do change any Major Component, and XP requires to be re-installed, MS is obligated to re-active your Software.
          There is no issue of legalities – the legal issues of licensing comes into play only if YOU WANT to install your XP onto another Hard Drive and run two or more machines simulataneously.
          This is the good oil from Microsoft some months ago, as I was faced with this actual situation for a corporate client.
          Cheers
          And thank you for taking the time to read my comments

        • #2603784

          You will need to read

          by nentech ·

          In reply to Your answer is not relevant

          This document on the microsoft website

          Before we have any more discussion

          http://download.microsoft.com/download/4/e/3/4e3eace0-4c6d-4123-9d0c-c80436181742/OSLicQA.doc

          I understand what you say

          But Microsoft are bars**eds

          When it comes to the OEM License racket

          It appeared that you had not read the posts of other people in this discussion

          Cheers from me

        • #2603751

          Let’s all jump in without reading anybody else’s comments first!

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to You will need to read

          I agree completely, DigitalAI.

          Unfortunately there seems to be an influx of responses recently from people who have not read the rest of the thread before they decide to jump in with their take on the situation.

          People are very quick to base their comments on their previous experiences, which is fine, but the main difference here is that OEM licensing works differently and is much more restrictive, because it has been sold at usually around half the price of a retail copy, the main purpose being so that PC manufacurers can “bundle” the software with their computers making the price attractive compared to a consumer buying a bare computer and a full retail copy of the software.

          As the discussion continues, we have not even heard anything back from the person posting the original question. We have no idea if he has a retail or OEM copy of XP. We have no idea if his motherboard is faulty or whether he wants to upgrade. We can only speculate and try to cover as many scenarios as possible in order to answer his question fully.

          I think this bandwagon is now getting full.

        • #2603711

          I dont mind

          by nentech ·

          In reply to Let’s all jump in without reading anybody else’s comments first!

          If some one jumps in

          I may just point them to the posts they may find interesting or start a discussion

          But natomega’s first line in his post

          ?It appears that many people have jumped on this issue. However I have not read One relevant correct Answer.?

          Was if nothing else rude

          I would expect better from a IT Department Manager

          So nice know someone thinks everybody else was wasting their time.

          I have not always read all the posts in a discussion
          But those were the Linux verses windows ones

          They just go on and on and on
          Deeper and deeper and I get tired of looking for something of real value

        • #2603703

          It is not always necessary

          by robpatten ·

          In reply to I dont mind

          I quite agree, it is not always necessary to read an entire thread. However if he had even skimmed through a couple or looked over the subject lines before posting it would have made him look a bit less arrogant in assuming that nobody else had hit the nail on the head.

          The fact is there is no definitive “right answer” here because we do not have enough information from the person who asked the original question.

          However, there have been many excellent and accurate posts, some more relevant than others to the discussion.

          Unfortunately there have also been, in the last few days, a number of people posting thinking they can “re-invent the wheel”.

          Before I jump in I at least make a bit of an effort to make sure somebody hasn’t already made the same point as me.

          Windows vs Linux… bores me to tears. AMD vs Intel… I don’t care. Different people have different preferences and different needs. One solution does not fit all.

          A couple of times on this thread I have sensed a post trying to spark a “you wouldn’t have this problem with Linux” debate. Maybe you wouldn’t, but it does not help answer the question that has been asked. I was glad to see that nobody rose to the bait anyway!

        • #2601869

          Intel that co is evil

          by nentech ·

          In reply to I dont mind

          How dare you mention that name

          Hang on o dear
          Never mind I was thinking of somthing else

      • #2604244

        You clearly have not read the other posts

        by robpatten ·

        In reply to New OS With New Motherboard

        In fact, as DigitalAI has said, it doesn’t even look like you read the original question properly, which has in fact been discussed by a number of people in this thread whose comments have been much more “relevant” and “correct” than yours.

        What you state is correct from a practical viewpoint with regard to motherboard chipsets.

        However the question related to licensing, rather than the practical side of a motherboard change.

        Indeed you can re-activate and tell Microsoft you have upgraded your hardware. For retail copies of XP this is fine. The difference is with OEM copies (which has also been discussed at great length which you do not seem to have noticed) where you are only allowed to replace a motherboard if the original is defective.

      • #2604239

        7 items may be changed

        by borgesen ·

        In reply to New OS With New Motherboard

        When MS launched the new Licensing program, I asked a MS certified retailer here in Denmark about the OEM license, where the license is tied to one single machine. I asked, “What is ‘a machine’, and when is there room for upgrades?”

        I tried to put the case to the test, and finally received an answer (thou they would not give it to me in writing) that the machine was still considered an original until you changed / replaced / upgraded “electrified” component no. 7. I tried further to get a description of “what is a component” thinking of parts like “Motherboard/BIOS” / “CPU/Fan” / “Case Airflow Fan(s)” etc. but they finally gave up answering my questions, settling for “We will have to see, when the problem occurs”.

    • #2600600

      My experience in replacing MOBOs

      by ozi eagle ·

      In reply to New OS With New Motherboard?

      Hi,

      I have had several mobos go belly up. I make sure that any replacement mobo (with cpu, RAM) has the same chip set as the original mobo, ie VIA, SIS etc. I have found that the drivers are close enough for the machine to boot into XP and then just load the new mobo drivers. I can’t recall any need to re- activate.

      Also there was a thread some time ago that explained how to avoid re-activation, to do with the wpa.dbl and wpa.bak files.

      Herb

      Edited for spelling

      • #2588859

        why no deactivation after new MOBO

        by pbug56 ·

        In reply to My experience in replacing MOBOs

        The problem of needing to reactivate XP after changing a BIOS (and obviously changing a MOBO changes the BIOS) is ONLY for OEM PREACTIVATED XP. In these PC’s XP has a link to the OEM BIOS that is broken when the bios and/or mobo is replaced.

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