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XP/MCE Sysprep Q:

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by chamberlinbill

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I purchased an HP Pavilion DV6171 notebook from an online dealer. It was identified as a demo/display model. It arrived with no discs, just notebook and power cord. It DOES have the XP Product Key seal on the bottom of the unit.

During start-up, it loads WinXP/MCE, but then runs SysPrep 2.0. As I don't have any support, and I'm not an IT Pro, I am really at a loss as to what to do with this.

I have been able to Add/Remove programs, browse the Web, add it to my home workgroup/network, etc.

What, if any, dangers are there if I attempt to Reseal?

What Options should be selected, if any? By this, I mean "Generate New SID's" "Reset Activation Grace Period" "Run Mini-Setup"

I am a non-business, home PC user and I do not wish to image or duplicate this notebook config. I am also a rank novice with issues like this.

Thank you,
Bill

8 replies

by jacemg

Sysprep was not completed by the dealer (probably by accident). It is a system program that is used to prepare a computer for a new owner. It sets the computer up to be just like new. Since there's no use for it to you you should disable it from running by clicking START > RUN > type 'msconfig' and press enter > Go up and click the 'startup' tab > and uncheck 'sysprep'.

Hope this helps,
Jon

by chamberlinbill

Jon, I ran msconfig, but found no trace of sysprep therein. Is some specific identifier I should be looking for, or do you think it would just show up as Sysprep?

Under the circumstances, is my laptop in any danger by trying to Reseal it?

Thanks for your reply!

Bill

by bcpgm

Sysprep with Reseal key is typically the last command to be run by a Windows XP OEM system builder before the system is released to an end user.

However, resealing will reinitialize a few Windows settings. It will clear Event Viewer logs and uninstall any non MS digitally signatured drivers that were installed. You will also have to provide Windows Product key and activate Windows again.

Because you have a product key label, I recommend you go ahead and press the reseal button. There?s no other way to get rid of the Sysprep Window.

by chamberlinbill

Thanks! Of all the research I've done to resolve this, your reply is the most helpful.

As a follow-up, when I Reseal there are options to "Reset Grace Period for Activation" "Run Mini-Setup" "Generate New SID's" and I believe there is one related to "Plug-n-Play."

Can you tell me, please, which of these I should select or not?

I *think* I should NOT run mini-setup, but let it go to Windows Welcome.
I *think* I should NOT reset the grace period for activation.
I *think* I should NOT generate new SID's.
I'm not sure about the PnP option.

Thanks, again.

Bill

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