Windows COA Product Key?

[mystic]

Hoping maybe somebody can enlighten me. Have a Macbook and 98% of everything I do is on the Mac. However I need to make a small partition on the Macbook's hard drive (using Bootcamp) to run Windows ... mainly for Mapsource and one other PC-only application I need to use.

So I'm now looking to get hold of a copy of Windows XP SP2. Been looking on Fleebay ... and to be honest I'm aware there are more than a few rogue sellers about. Can somebody please explain to me about COA & Product Keys .... some of the packages on offer on Fleebay are described as new/sealed packaging, and others as having been used to install the operating system once only?

Just how does all this work? How does Microsoft prevent unauthorised use of their software? I don't have a clue and don't want to shell out cash and end up with a "pup" that doesn't work!

Any advice much appreciated.

 

[cookie]

after you install windows, the pc will check with MS to make sure the key is valid if it's not, windows will stop working (partially, i think) after 30 days.

an "OEM" copy of XP is probably the cheapest way to do it legally(ish). probably about £85(ish).

personally, i'd use Road Trip for your garmin, and either find an alternative for the other windows prog, or just do without.

 

[mystic]

Thanks Cookie. Wasn't aware of Road Trip. However still need a Windows environment for the other application - no way it'll run on a Mac and I need to use it every week!

 

[cookie]

don't worry, i'm told porn works fine on macs.

 

[Dansin]

I don't know if it's even possible with a Mac, but could you dual boot it with Ubuntu and then use Wine to run your PC app?

I'm running some PC accounts software and Microstation through Wine and it works brilliantly.

 

[Pondboy]

As long as you have the key code on the XP CD case, it doesn't matter if it has been installed on other machines. It can be fully re-installed on any machine.

Bung in the CD and load XP. When it comes to the product activation, select the "Other / Phone" option, the bottom one on the list. Phone the selected number and give the automated system the CD key code. It will give you a authentication code you enter at the next screen prompt and bingo, A fully authenticated XP is now running. PB

 

[stolzy]

personally, i'd use Road Trip for your garmin, and either find an alternative for the other windows prog, or just do without.

I find Road Trip horribly slow and clunky compared with MapSource.

Also, IIRC you still need access to a windows computer to convert the maps.

 

[cookie]

I find Road Trip horribly slow and clunky compared with MapSource.

Also, IIRC you still need access to a windows computer to convert the maps.

you don't need to convert the maps if they are v10 onwards. they install from the dvd.

 

[stolzy]

you don't need to convert the maps if they are v10 onwards. they install from the dvd.

That's good to know.