PC WILL NOT BOOT UP

Clarifications

Have you tried booting to safe mode? Has the machine ever worked?

and many also come with the CD key stuck on the side or back of the box too.

If you have one of those you do not need a Product Key as this is included in the Slipstreamed Image of the Install Disc.

But regardless there should be a COA Stuck onto the case with the Product Key printed on that. More importantly try starting in Safe Mode and post back with the listing where it stops loading if it fails to load.

Col

Entering System Setup
1.Turn on (or restart) your computer.

2.When the blue DELL logo appears, press < F2 > immediately.

3.If you wait too long and the operating system logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Microsoft? Windows? desktop. Turn off your computer. and try again.

Under System Setup Options select CMOS Defaults

This setting restores the computer's factory-installed default settings.

Save the settings and exit.

If that doesn't work check this link to clear the CMOS settings.

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim8400/SM/syssetup.htm#wp1052309

Try Reseating the Video card.

Edit: format

hi
no CD no legit...as far as I know.
who told you XP was installed but can't give you a genuine CD? If its a legit copy contact DELL for a repair CD, if not well install a fresh copy from scratch...
could try a live CD to check the actual contents of the drive
cheers!

boot F8 and select Last Know Good ... Mode
please return the result to me for find another solution,if fiail

http://youngadmin.blogspot.com