Help with operating system dilemma

[06MustangGT]

I finally have gotten my new computer put together and have gotten it to turn on. The computer is a E6600, Asus P5b-e, 8800 GTS, etc. However, I just realized that I only have a Windows cd that is from Dell. I have heard that this cd will automatically install the drivers for my Dell motherboard. The dilemma is that I want Vista and I don't want to have to buy XP and then buy Vista. I know Microsoft is doing a special for prebuilt computers, but I can only find one special from NewEgg on just buying XP. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16837116195

Does anyone have advice? I really want to get my system up and running before Vista comes out. Does anyone know any tricks with the Dell XP cds?

 

[psp_crazy1]

you can run it... only for 30 days though...

 

[06MustangGT]

Run what? Vista?

 

[psp_crazy1]

XP on the dell cd.

 

[Ronnie]

actually i dont think you can use that disk, unless you use your old dell motherboard

just get windows the not so legal way *shifty eyes*

 

[M733mhz]

You can use the Dell CDs for XP, but as everyone else said, the 30 days rule is in effect unless you dig up an activation code. Haha, this reminds me of the internet WWWWizzard, "You must have to have it for thirty days!"

 

[Fat.Clown]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16832116169

XP home with VISTA COUPON for just 89.99
instead of the 200+ one u posted

or if u want 64 bit
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16832116179
Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition SP2b 1pk w/Upgrade Coupon for Vista - OEM for $139.99

should also come with the 64 bit version of vista, but YOU have to check up on it, I do NOT know for sure

 

[06MustangGT]

Thanks Fatclown. I also just found that you can get a free 120 day trial of Windows XP 64. I downloaded it and burned it to a cd. I am currently installing it on my system. I hope this works and will hold me over until Vista comes out.

 

[06MustangGT]

Just to update everyone and inform anyone with the same problem. I was able to download XP 64 bit edition trial and copy it to a cd as an ISO. I finished installing XP around midnight last night. It seems descent, but I have found some software that won't run on the 64 bit version of XP.

 

[darkop16]

some software you have to find the 64 bit edition for. Most 32 bit software should run ok but some you have to find the 64 bit edition to run on. Im not quite sure how that works though (im not much in the software side of things), but you could make a topic in the windows os thread to get better help there.