How Do I re-configure XP after mobo upgrade

[FlyingDevilFish]

My mobo died and about to install a new one. Diff chipsets same brand - Gigabyte. What is the cleanest way to get XP to reconfigure and load drivers once a post and connect the same HD? I have the XP CD but not the product key. Is it necessary to do a reinstall? THe updates are all current w SP2, settings and apps are tweaked perfect.

 

[linney]

Replacement of CD or Product Keys
To replace a CD or Product Key, you must contact PSS. To locate the appropriate phone number for your product, visit the following Microsoft Web site:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=fh;EN-US;CNTACTMS

326246 - How to Replace Lost, Broken, or Missing Microsoft Software or Hardware

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;326246&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

Whether you have to re-install XP after a motherboard replacement is a bit of a lottery. If XP fires up and discovers the new motherboard and loads all the drivers then you will be fine. It could just as easily fail to boot, and that is where a repair install becomes necessary.

When repairing windows by running it over itself. You will lose all your windows updates but your files and programs will be untouched.

How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade (Reinstallation) of Windows XP (Q315341)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q315/3/41.asp

As for the lost Product Key (besides the earlier MSKB), have a look for anything written on a label on the computer box or your CD packaging.

Will the old motherboard run in Safe Mode? If so you could try this program to display the loaded Product Key.

Belarc Advisor:

http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html

 

[allteltec]

A Bert Pe boot CD with keyfinder Pe can get the Windows key off the Hard drive after the motherboard is changed if you can't boot with the old motherboard.

 

[BadBigBen]

How to replace the motherboard on a computer that is running Windows Server 2003, Windows XP, or Windows 2000

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;824125

Ben

"If it works don't fix it! If it doesn't use a sledgehammer..."