WindowsXP installation on older computer

I have an older computer 20GB hard drive and 1.5GB RAM presently with Windows ME installed. I would like to install WindowsXp but before going to the expense of buying a new installation disk I wonder if it would be possible to try using the installation disk that came with my main computer to see if it would install. I realize that even if it does install I would not be able to activate it, but at least it would let me know if this computer would be capable of installing WindowsXP. Anyone know if this is possible?

 

Thanks Steve
CPU speed is 900MH will have a go at installing. If it doesn't work will consider the scrap heap. Take care

 

Hi E N,

If the computer works well enough, and it's not ancient but might have a few years left on it, you might consider cleaning any personal info from it and donating it.

There's plenty of people whom are disabled or living on small fixed incomes that would love a computer. You'd be surprised (maybe not) at how many stories I've heard where a shut-ins world has expanded exponentially and they no longer feel like an 'outsider' but can participate in the world around them; even if only cyberly.

I've built quite a few systems and the only major expense has been the OS. For example (after rebates, etc., of course):
MB (including CPU) with built-in sound and shared graphics card: $55.00
HDD (40GB): $20.00
56k modem: $5.00
Tower (including fan and power supply): $20.00
256 to 512MB RAM: $10.00
Used Monitor: Prices have varied from $25.00 to $60.00
Keyboard and Mouse: $10.00 (or less if on sale)
CDROM: $10.00
Also, if you scrounge around you can probably decrease the cost.

And, as most of you know, building a computer from scratch is like a 10 piece jigsaw puzzle; if you've done it once, you can do it the second and subsequent times more quickly and easily "” usually less than an hour.

Often I've fronted the money to buy the parts and the person has paid me back $25.00, or so, per month (depending on their budget). I refuse to take any money for labor, though.

Like I said, the most expensive part is the OS itself. And, everyone has been happy with W98 (although I don't know how it got installed )

Just food for thought for anyone who knows someone in need.

 

Yep and a lot of the other software. I am not condoning piracy but these software companies must start to understand what they are offering and what these services are actually worth.

 

Hi wildfire,

I agree completely. However, there is a ton of free software out there. Granted it doesn't have all the bells, buzzers and whistles like the full version, but for someone who's never had a computer, it's not necessary.

I'm glad you brought up the subject of morality and piracy. For instance, let's suppose a company has a program that's now on version 10.5 and I've got (bought and paid for legitimately) version 0.1. It works, but it's so hopelessly out of date that no one in their right mind would use it, let alone buy it.

Now take the case of someone with nothing, no resources, and no need for v10.5: They just need the basic-basics to get by. Period.

Would it be considered a "take it to court and sue for piracy violation" if I installed a version of software that, like I said I bought, is so hopelessly out of date it's laughable?

As you know, the courts have nothing to do with morality — only legal or illegal. And to me, this particular issue has to do with both.

And since I've worked with the 'less-than-affluent' part of society, the legal\moral implications are a biggie for me. Both sides can be argued successfully.

However, illegally downloading or code cracking a program is reprehensible to me; it's just plain old stealing.

Thoughts?

 

Hi Chris, I can see this being a lengthly and interesting discussion which is off topic for this board. I hope you don't mind but I've quoted you here and will post my thoughts in that thread after the Chinese GP.