For distribution with new pc only..

i dont see it being a prob....i would assume it came from someone who got a new pc and wanted something other than xp on it...ie linux or what not, and had no use for the disc or its serial number. afaik its ok to sell xp assuming it hasent allready been activated. is it a sealed package?

Only problem might be support. Like if it is a Dell OEM disk, etc. Then MS may not support. Normaly, this would not be a problem.

Dear WK,
Complicated question.
Legally, as long as you pay for the key, and it activates only one machine, it does not have to be the original machine for which it was intended. However, M$ will not support the OEM version, only the OEM will. Thus, scrapping the old desktop for a new laptop means you can save the cost of the OS, but have no support, as the OEM is not going to support the new install, only the original. Thus, pracitaclly speaking, if you are without fear of OS problems, and the copy is legal, authentic, and never heretofore used, the use of the key and COA is lawful. However, and this is the trick with all contracts, including the EULA from M$, the wording implies that only the original owner of the original machine may transfer the licence to a different set of hardware. Many software companies get around this by selling a $10 cable and the software licence for about $80-100, with no installation medium. This completely circumvents the restriction, at least in a court room.
Now, having need once to rescue some *.pst files be uninstalling then reinstalling elsewhere, then uninstalling and reinstalling to the orginal pc an OEM office licence, I had the M$ phone bloke laughing his head off. Of course, they co-operate with anything reasonable, and will activate if you are telling the truth. They have an uncanny sense of who is a disorgansied old fart like me and who is trying to activate an illegal copy. In my experience, they err on the side of politeness and customer friendliness, but, if they do not, and you cannot web activate and end up on the phone, should they ask you why you are installing your OEM disk somewhere else, what can you say? "The dog ate my Dell" will probably not work, and the truth is, it is not at all illegal to buy an OEM licence, but it is a violation of the OEM agreement with M$.
I would sooner use one of the services that sell new OEM keys. A quick google under XP licences will get you pages full.


Good luck,
martin