[BC] Windows XP

[RichardBJohnson at comcast.net]

There should be a key on the case/cover of the computer. The software was probably never "activated." Just do as this link shows: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/307890

If the software can't activate using the Network, it will show you a telephone number. Pretend you got a number from the telephone center and enter anything that will fit in the spaces provided. This will error out and display a window with the correct format for the license text shown on your computer label. Enter that and, magically, it will say your software has been activated. Now you can get your upgrades and subsequent service packs.

Cheers,
Richard B. Johnson
Book: http://www.AbominableFirebug.com/

----- Original Message -----
From: "Jeff Glass" <Xmitters at aol.com>

All my computers are Dell laptops. I have a Dell O/S install CD. 

At the risk of letting my ignorance hang out, what number do I call?

Off this topic, one of my Dell laptops refuses to load service pack 1a (it 
is 32 bit BTW). It comes back saying that the install key used is invalid, 
and that my O/S is an invalid copy. Not surprising given that I bought the 
computer off ebay.  Is there a number I can call to register this computer so 
I don't have to burn it down and reload the O/S? It does not give me that 
option; just an Error window with a snottygram :-(