Karl Groves wrote:
> Mark Goodge <usenet@listmail.good-stuff.co.uk> wrote in
> news:2hutd3p63np4e36q1qbbkvb08df0lme1v9@news.marks house.net:
>
>> On Wed, 05 Sep 2007 17:54:25 GMT, Karl Groves put finger to keyboard
>> and typed:
>>
>>> I have three Windows XP machines here at my house. All three of
>>> which, obviously, came with their own set of copies of the
>>> preinstalled software. All three sets were promptly thrown in a desk
>>> drawer without marking which computer they came with.
>>>
>>> Here's my question: If I format the HD on one of my computers and use
>>> the "wrong" Windows disk (despite having a correct, good, and legal
>>> serial) will I have any problems?
>> Yes, probably. But you can find out the serial number by
>> right-clicking on the "my computer" icon and selecting "properties" -
>> it's under the "general" tab - so you can then match that up with the
>> disks. Even if you've already formatted one of the machines, you can
>> work out which one it is by checking the others and using a process of
>> elimination :-)
>>
>
> Well, my problem is, none of the disks have the serial number on them/ near
> them. The serial number tag is on the computers themselves. :-(
>
>


The disks should all be identical, the number is mated to the
machine not to the disk. You can use one disk to load Windows on all
three machines and use the code that is stuck to the machine to register
it. If nothing has changed since it was new or if it's been about 4
years since you first registered it, it will work without a hitch. If
you changed something major like the main board, CPU or something then
you may have to call the toll free number. I've used one disk to install
to 24 machines and then use the number plastered on the machine.

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