It's quite well possible that your Pro License code isn't valid for the (OEM) version of XP (maybe even Home) that was originally installed. Nothing wrong with that.
You bought a PC without Windows. Hope you didn't pay too much for it. Given the specs (business PC, Pentium 4 or Celeron, 4 years old, no OS) it should be at MOST USD 125, I'd say.
Things you can do:
- See if HP can help you with a replacement Windows XP CD. A link in the link below tells how to contact them.
- Buy another XP license.
http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/Home.jsp?lang=en&cc=us&prodClassId=-1&prodTypeId=12454&prodSeriesId=342066
Kees
Dear forum
I purcased a HP compaq d330 microtower system second hand. It came with no operating system installed however the original sticker with microsoft COA , product key, barcode is still on the back . However no CD for windows installation was provided with the computer.
However I wished to install win xp pro using a win xp pro installation disk already in my possession.
The installation procedure progressed smoothly until getting to the point at which one has to input the product key. The product key on the sticker of this pc was not accepted however. (I tried several times both with lower and upper case-& making sure no problem with wrong characters input.
Therefore i am asking - would you kindly please know at all how I can install the OS with the right product key that ships with the PC do I need a different disk or perhaps do I need to contact Microsoft for help. I dont wish to buy a new operating system because the COA is already provided on the sticker .
Your kind help would be appreciated
Thank you
Ian

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