install windows 2000 with preinstalled windows XP in Dell Inspiron. 46

Joe

   It's your computer, so it's your choice, so long as you have a legitimate Win2K license to install on the PC.

   You'll be using an obsolete operating system for which there may well be no compatible device drivers to operate the computer's motherboard chipset, video, audio, network, and USB controllers. So check with each individual device manufacturer (*NOT* Dell - they won't support this action) for the availability of Win2K-specific device drivers before proceeding. Also, removing the factory-installed operating system will void any technical support agreement with Dell, and may also void the PC's warranty altogether - read the warranty (and consult an attorney, if necessary) before proceeding.

    Microsoft requires its licensed OEM computer manufacturers to state. The particular method of recovery, however, is left entirely to the discretion of each individual computer manufacturer.

Legally, the OEM has met it's contractual obligation to Microsoft whether it's a Recovery CD or a Recovery Parbreastion. They are not legally obliged to provide a true installation CD as part of the sale. Reputable, customer-service aware OEMs, like Gateway, do provide a full OEM installation CD, that does permit custom installations and repairs. However, many uncaring OEMs, such as eMachines, Compaq, HP, and Sony, in an effort to save pennies and reduce their support costs by having to hire support people that need only say "Boot from the Recovery CD to return your PC to its original condition," provide only a CD bearing a disk image of the hard drive as it left the factory.

   This will not work for you. If you delete the WinXP parbreastions and install Win2K, you will not be able to later change your mind and re-install WinXP. That would require the use of an Installation CD.

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Bruce Chambers

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