I currently use Win2000 on my VM but would like to create a new VM with WinXp on it. We own a license for an OEM version of WINXP Home SP1 that is no longer being used as that computer has been destroyed. I realize that I have to talk to MS about transferring the license (if they will?) but I can't seem to get the installation of XP accomplished. I am using Parallels 3, build 5582. I have tried both installing from the CD directly and also from creating a disk image. The first method got me stuck (as in frozen) with 37 minutes to go (it said) The second method said it had 36 minutes left and the little installation "movie" extolling the virtues of XP kept playing, but nothing else was progressing any further. Will this installation work for me? Will MS even let me transfer the activation/license code over, or should I just buy a new copy of XP? Thanks, Kathy
M$ usually will let you switch the license I have found... But, what is really at hand is whether or not you can use your disc; my suspicion is that you cannot as it probably has certain installation related installers specifically for your old computer. Does the disc reference the computer manufacturer anywhere on it?
No, it doesn't give a manufacturer. This computer was built by a local guy. The install CD says just MS WinXP Home Edition and that it is "for distribution with a new PC only......" The Certificate of Authenticity says that it is an OEM product. I read elsewhere since my first post, that Parallels needs XP SP2 to work and this is only SP1. So, it looks like that may kill this grand idea anyway.
Actually, I am pretty sure Parallels will boot up with a SP1 disc, the OEM coverage is spotty though. I am sure that it is BootCamp that requires the SP2.