Can I change Product Key without reinstalling? 1

[MALFIE]

Have a few Compaq Evos each with original XP Pro licences attached..
I've installed 2 of them and mixed up the lids..

I havent activated either yet..

Rather than nuke 'em and start again..is there a legimate & easy way to change the Key prior to activating over the 'net??

Thanks


"We do not stop playing because we are old, more likely we grow old because we stop playing...

 

[micker377]

If you haven't activated them yet, there is no ID to mix up. If you have physically mixed the CD's, XP wouldn't install. Just go ahead and activate them. If there is any problem, you will be told to call an 800 number and straighten the problem out.

 

[LloydSev]

Agreed with micker.. if you did not use 1 key twice, then you have absolutely no problem whatsoever.

Computer/Network Technician
CCNA

 

[DragonQ0105]

If you really wanted to, there is an place in the Activation Wizard where you can change the Product Key (I think you get to it by choosing "By Phone").

 

[POLMafia]

or if you have activated and dont mind going in the registry go to
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\wpaevents]
oobetimer key delete the first 2 leters

then click, start, run
type \sys%root%\system32\oobmsoobe.exe /a

(scratching head) i think thats the right switch, yeap just did it thats it. now change key.

 

[bcastner]

http://www.magicaljellybean.com/keyfinder.shtml

 

[MALFIE]

Thanks... I really need to know which Id has been used in setting up as I'd prefer a straight internet auto activation..
I came across Jelybean after I wrote this request and it shows the exact key used, the problem was, another "key reader" I'd had gives a completely incorrect return.. weird..
Since then I've sorted out the confusion and labelled the cases with the licence stickers against the pc HDD..

Polmafia's solution to changing it was the other thing I really wanted and although not needed, would have been handy on a couple of occasions.. nice to know..

Thanks!



"We do not stop playing because we are old, more likely we grow old because we stop playing...

 

[bcastner]

If this helps:

If you order a preinstalled OS image, the "key" used is not the same as the COA key on the side of the computer case. The case COA key is for a reinstallation.

After 3/1/2005 any COA key is going to require telephone activation support in the USA. Soon, worldwide.

 

[bcastner]

And I referenced Magical Jellybean above because the script for changing the key is part and parcel of the application.