dual boot with XP and Media Center?

Hi all, I tried searching for the answer but couldn't find one.

Just bought a new computer with Media Center. The old computer had XP version 2002.

Also just found out that some software I use to access my employer's network won't work with Media Center.

Can I do a dual-boot with Media Center and my old XP? I assume so, but how do I move the XP os from the old computer to the new one?

(I had an HP that didn't give installation CDs, just the dang I386 partition.)

Related question: I know I can install my old HD with XP as a second HD on the new computer. Would it be easier to set up a dual boot with:

a) the XP os on a separate HD, or
b) both OS on the same HD?

THANKS SO MUCH!

 

OK, after doing more research, looks like a 2 HD dual-boot is beyond my ability. I'm going to try to put both on the same HD and just partition it.

Question though--can I simply copy the I386 partition from my old HD onto a CD and use that as my installation CD during the dual-boot process on the new HD? Hope that makes sense. It would be a cinch if HP had given out the install CDs, but they're too cheap.

 

Hello freddie,

You need a new XP cd for this - the HP installation is activated for the old computer and couldn't be used on the new system even if HP would have supplied an XP cd.

http://aumha.org/win5/a/wpa.php

Regards - Charles

 

My new computer is also HP. Does this make a difference?

So, what I am trying to do is impossible with what I have? I thought the license for XP allowed me to transfer it to a new computer, as long as I delete it off of the old one, so there is only one copy of it in use ever.

 

Not as far as I know. One XP per computer.

If you get an XP labeled "upgrade" - costs a lot less, that is the full XP, you just need proof of owning a previous Windows version, such as Win98 or WinME or XP - you can borrow one, any disc will do. Or if you boot into media center and then insert the XP disc and install for the dual boot, that also constitutes proof.

I assume that the new HP didn't come with the OS disc either. If you have occasions to either re - load or repair the installation, your SOL. Your only choice is to go back to the factory settings.

Regards - Charles

 

My understanding is the same as Pete's. If you have a retail version of XP you can use it on another computer as long as you remove it from the old one. If you have an OEM version (which you'res almost certainly is) it's forever tied to the computer it was first installed on. At least that's the way I understand it to be.