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Dell Optiplex 980 DT i5 1st Gen - Windows XP?
Hi Gang
I have an older Dell Optiplex 980 DT i5 in which I'd like to install Windows XP (offline) using (Genuine Microsoft Full OS Disc) or a Dell Version. BTW the Optiplex DOES have the Genuine OS Product Key attached ...
I need XP to run older CD/DVD Printer software that will only work in XP
I'd be using the unit strickly OFFLINE (no need for any updates)
Thank You ...
bradthetechnut
6 Professor
6 Professor
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7.9K Posts
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March 27th, 2022 15:00
SP2 will be fine.
BIOS adjustment to ATAPI would be done before loading XP. If one was to load XP in RAID mode, then switch to ATAPI, it won't boot.
I know you plan on having PC strictly offline, but there's a catch. XP might only activate online,* and then you can have it back offline again. *It's been so long since I did an XP load, I don't remember for sure. But you'll know what to expect, so no surprises.
speedstep
9 Legend
9 Legend
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47K Posts
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March 27th, 2022 09:00
@WWII Researcher
OEM SLP XPSP3 is required to install. The drivers are on the resource cd or driver cab file. download the cab and move to documents folder for login. then extract the cab contents by right click with 7 zip and extract here. You cannot point to an exe or cab file for drivers. SATA operation in bios must be set to atapi not raid.
000121790 optiplex 980 xp driver cab
980-xp-A08-805T0.CAB
The drivers must be extracted via 7 zip 32 bit version for xp.
https://www.7-zip.org/a/7z2107.exe
XP SP3
WWII Researcher
121 Posts
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March 27th, 2022 11:00
Hello and Thank You
The unit has a Product Key for W7 Pro (attached). Could I use this same product key for Windows XP and use this disk?
(I'm downloading the Driver cabinet now).
You mentioned: "SATA operation in bios must be set to atapi not raid"
I was under the impression this setting in Bios was already 'defaulted' Other than the internal system drive I will not be using esata ...
Thank You
speedstep
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47K Posts
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March 27th, 2022 12:00
No the windows 7 Key is not applicable to XP which is why you must use the SLP Key in the bios of the machine with DELL OEM CD.
XPSp3 because all of the downloads for xp are gone now. The COA key is not optional when you use NON DELL XP CD.
BIOS is defaulted to RAID on most all dells which REQUIRES F6 mass storage drivers or xp will crash with STOP 7B inaccessible boot device.
There is no more support for XP from Dell or Microsoft and no more downloads of drivers or security packs etc.
WWII Researcher
121 Posts
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March 27th, 2022 14:00
speedstep
9 Rhodium
Thank You for clearing this up ...
One more question; (bear in mind), as I explained, this machine will be used strickly 'Offline' for the purpose of an older Disc Printer and software. No need for 'Microsoft Updates' (None) ...
Its very difficult to find Dell Install Discs with (SP3). Since I'm not going online would SP2 be sufficient to boot the machine into a stable OS?
Would this work?
And lastly; when do I make the Bios Adjustment (F6) to 'ATAPI'? Before booting onto OS XP Disc? Or after the OS has been installed?
Thank you for your patience ...